ACT & SAT

Managing Test Anxiety for the ACT / SAT

By Julia WassonLast updated on December 22, 2022

Researchers estimate that between 10 and 40 percent of all students experience some test anxiety. According to Morgan Grotewiel, Ph.D., Adjunct Faculty in the University of Missouri-St. Louis Department of Counseling and Family Therapy, “Test-anxious people perceive testing situations as personally threatening, and they respond with intense emotional reactions.” This can range from little more …

college admissions

The Pros and Cons of Being a Transfer Student

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

Transfers are more common than you might think; in fact, it’s estimated that nearly 1/3rd of all college students transfer at least once during their higher education. The National Student Clearing House Research Center found that 37.2% transfer at least once within six years. As with every decision, there are pros and cons. Each upside …

ACT & SAT

Should I Take the ACT or the SAT?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

As you well know, there are two major college entrance exams—the ACT and the SAT. Some students take one over the other based on where they live (certain areas of America seem to have a different preference), and others simply take both. But if you’re asking yourself the question: which should I take? Ask yourself …

college admissions

How to Nail a College Interview

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

There are many elements to impressing a college during the application process—your GPA, ACT/SAT scores, essays, extracurricular activities, honors, the application itself. But there’s another way you can boost your chances—nail a college interview. If you’re very interested in a specific college, you can meet with an admissions officer during your visit and have a …

college applications

8 Ways To Narrow Down Your College List

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 12, 2024

If you’ve found yourself overwhelmed by the number schools you are interested, it’s time to narrow down that college list. It’s common to have a long list of options, but applying to too many can be expensive, stressful, and make it hard to give each application the attention it deserves. Whether you’re unsure where to …

college applications

Uncovering True Leadership Experience for College Applications

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 28, 2025

When filling out a college application, there’s one section you’re almost guaranteed to see: leadership experience. For many students, it’s a buzzword that carries weight with admissions officers. But what does it truly mean, and (most importantly) how can you make sure it’s highlighted on your college application? What Is Leadership Experience and Why Does …

college admissions

20 Questions to Ask Your High School Counselor About College

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 5, 2023

Your high school counselor is an excellent resource when it comes to questions about college preparation, planning, and exploration. They can help you craft the ideal class schedule, and also give you a leg up on college searches and applications. But counselors are busy, and they have many other students to help in addition to …

college admissions

How to Navigate a College Deferred Admission Decision

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 8, 2025

When you apply to a college under early action or early decision, you can get back three responses: accepted, rejected, or deferred. Deferred means the college wants to review your application again with the regular decision applicants. It can be stressful, as you’ll have to play the waiting game, but here are some things you …

ACT & SAT

PSA: What Your PSAT Score Tells You and What It Means For You

By Olivia PittmanLast updated on December 22, 2022

Approximately 3.6 million high school sophomores and juniors take the PSAT (preliminary SAT) each year. In addition to qualifying students for National Merit Scholarships, the test is also an indicator for college entrance exam preparedness. The test is administered each year in mid-October and score reports come out in December. The PSAT is meant to …

college applications

How to Apply to Colleges: A Complete Guide

By Allison WignallLast updated on April 7, 2023

Applying to colleges can feel overwhelming, especially while you’re dealing with your senior year of high school! Thankfully, there is a clear series of steps you can take and follow to ensure you’re getting everything done ahead of deadlines. Here are 11 steps you can follow in order to apply to your colleges from identifying …