college applications

How to Save Time on College Applications

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Your senior year of high school is a hectic time, especially if you have work, volunteer, or play sports after class. On top of that, you’re getting prepared to head to college next year! Between the applications, ACT and SAT tests, essays, and more, it can get a bit overwhelming. Here are a few tips …

ACT & SAT

Different Ways to Study for the ACT / SAT

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

There is no shortage of resources available to students who wish to prepare for their upcoming college entrance exams—the ACT and SAT. Different students respond to different methods, and so there are a variety of ways to study up for the tests. Read on to discover just a few different ways to study. In-Person Review …

college applications

How to Avoid College Application Fees

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

Part of the college application process is paying all those darn fees… Or is it? Here are some ways you can avoid paying application fees. Attend a Campus Visit Some schools have arranged for application fee waivers if you arrange (and attend) a campus visit day. It’s best to do this through the school rather …

questions & answers

What are Rolling Admissions?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

While you’re applying to college, you may have come across some schools on your list that use a rolling admission process. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect when applying to one of these colleges: What is it? Rolling admissions is a policy often used for freshman, undergraduates, and law schools. Instead of a …

college admissions

10 College Admissions Tasks for High School Juniors

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 13, 2023

In today’s fiercely competitive college admissions scenario, it’s helpful to do everything you can to create an application that will stand out from the rest of the competition. There are plenty of things high school juniors can do towards this end, but these 10 college admissions tasks carry the most weight. 1. Make a note …

questions & answers

Who Should Write My Letter of Recommendation for College or Graduate School?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 4, 2025

Key Takeaways If you are looking for someone to write your letter of recommendation, it is best to choose a teacher or professor who knows you well and can speak to your academic goals and strengths. Your letter of recommendation should speak to your character, academic abilities, and the reasons why you would make a …

college applications

How To Balance Grades With Extracurricular Activities

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Grades and extracurricular activities are both very important for development. While every high school student understands the importance of balancing both aspects, many find themselves struggling to cope. The truth is, without a proper game plan, balancing grades and extracurricular activities can be incredibly stressful. You will find yourself focusing more on one while completing …

college applications

Pros and Cons of Using the Universal College App

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023

Do one (or more) of your schools accept the Universal College App? You could save time by using the program – you may only have to do your application once to apply to the schools on your list. But should you? Or can you? Let’s review exactly what centralized college apps are and then go …

college applications

How to Use the Common App to Apply for Colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 17, 2025

Key Takeaways Over 1,000 colleges accept the Common App, a centralized college application. Students can use the resource to save time and effort if they’re applying to more than one school that accepts it. Start on your Common App as soon as possible to give yourself ample time to complete essays and submit other materials. …

college applications

What you should know about Early Decision (ED) applications

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 21, 2026

Key takeaways: Early decision is an application process that is “binding” – accepted students are expected to attend. Students who apply under early decision hear back from the college faster and could have a higher chance of acceptance. However, applicants have less time to complete their applications and can’t compare financial aid offers. Early decision …