college applications

Pros and Cons of Declaring Your Major on a College Application

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 27, 2025

Declaring your major on your college application has its advantages, but there can be a downside to it as well. Understanding the pros and cons of declaring a major on your college application can help you make a more informed decision. Pros Of Declaring Your Major Declaring your intended major tells the college that you …

college applications

College Application Tips For Homeschooled Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

In some ways, the college application process for homeschooled students may be slightly different than that for traditional students. If you are a homeschooled student, you may not be able to submit a traditional transcript of course grades. You may also not be able to meet the recommendation letter criteria laid out for traditional students. …

questions & answers

What is the TOEFL?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you live in the United States or another English majority speaking country, it’s quite possible you’ve never heard of the TOEFL. It stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language. However, if English wasn’t your first language, you may have to take it to attend a college in another country. Here are the …

college applications

Steer Clear of These Topics on Your College Essay

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

When you are writing your college essay, it is crucial that your message is clear and unmistakable. There should be no confusion about what you are trying to say. While there are a few subjects that you definitely should talk about, there are a few that you should steer clear of. Political And Religious Issues …

college applications

How to Improve Your GPA!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Improving your GPA should be a goal whether you’re in high school or college, a freshman or a senior. A high GPA will look excellent on both a college application and a resume. Here are some steps you can take to improve your GPA: Set Aside Time To Study Studying before a test is a …

college admissions

Questions YOU Should Ask in a College Interview

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

Typically, when it comes to a college interview you’re the one answering the questions instead of asking them. However, when the interview draws to a close most interviewers will ask the student, “Do you have any questions for me?” Your answer should always be YES! What Should You Expect in a College Interview? Not all …

ACT & SAT

What is the PreACT Test and How Best to Study for It

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 19, 2024

Key Takeaways: The PreACT is a practice and preliminary test offered by the ACT that helps students prepare for the ACT exam. As of 2024, the test covers the same subjects as the ACT: English, Math, Reading, and Science. The PreACT is designed for high school sophomores, but there are exams available for other students. …

college applications

The HiSET and TASC Tests: What are They?

By Liz SkogerboeLast updated on December 22, 2022

Have trouble finishing high school and wondering what your next steps may be? If you were planning on taking the GED (General Education Diploma), be sure to consider the HiSET and TASC tests as well. These tests are all used to measure your knowledge in accordance with that of a typical high school graduate. HiSET …

college admissions

Tips to Help You Beat The Admissions Odds

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

With the number of college applications far outnumbering the number of places available every year, colleges can afford to be super picky during the selection process. They set the benchmark very high so only the best of the best meet their stringent criteria. While getting accepted into the college of your choice may seem like …

online colleges

Can You Get Financial Aid for Online Colleges?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 12, 2025

Yes, students who enroll in online programs can get financial aid for online college. It’s actually (most of) the same financial aid options that are available to on-campus students. As with students studying at a traditional institution, online students can apply for Federal Student Loans, Scholarships and Grants, Private Loans and College-Sponsored Aid. Federal Student …