All Getting in Articles

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questions & answers

What if My School Doesn’t Have Class Rank?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
When searching for colleges and filling out applications, you’re likely to find a list of things you should include in every application: GPA, of course, ACT/SAT test scores, a list of extracurriculars, an essay, maybe a letter of recommendation, and your class rank. But what if you don’t have a class ranking system? Does that …
As a student in a military family, the college search process can be tough.
college applications

The College Search Process for Military Families

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on November 28, 2023
Searching for colleges and universities can be a hard enough process for students who have lived the majority of their lives in their high school’s town. For those students with family members who had to move constantly, the process is even more difficult. However, the adversity of having a parent (or parents) in the armed …
How do you choose which college essay topic you want to write on
college applications

How to Choose a College Application Essay Topic

By Tom JagerLast updated on December 22, 2022
A special time comes along with the fall of your senior year. Most of your written papers and other projects are completed and students are getting ready for some major work that will determine their future in college. Colleges end up rejecting many of those students because of the application essay topic they pick due …
Do colleges know what other schools you applied to?
questions & answers

Do colleges know what other schools I’ve applied to?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 26, 2026
Key takeaways In general, colleges don’t know what other schools you’ve applied to.  A school could know where you’ve applied to if you tell them, it’s noted on your transcripts, or you were accepted to two early decision schools.  Colleges don’t care how many you apply to, but you should still aim to send in six to 12 applications.  Colleges don’t share applicant lists, so your schools won’t know where you’ve applied to …
Stamps next to each other that say "accepted" and "rejected."
college admissions

So You Didn’t Get Into Your First Choice of College: Now What?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 2, 2026
Key takeaways Plenty of students don’t get accepted into their first-choice college, especially if that school has very low acceptance rates. Your second or third choice can still offer great classes, friends, and experiences. College reputation matters less than what you do—grades, activities, and skills are key. Stay positive, explore options, and focus on your …
What is a college writing center and how do students benefit from it?
questions & answers

What are College Writing Centers?

By Rose ScottLast updated on December 22, 2022
If you think that college writing centers are only for those who dream of becoming the next romantic William Shakespeare or horrifying Stephen King, you are on the wrong track. A college student’s journey entails a lot of writing tasks, whether it is a lab report, research paper, or essay. Having a friend or classmate …
Student taking pictures of violet flowers on the ground.
questions & answers

What Are College Electives and Why are They Important?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on October 23, 2023
When selecting your college courses, you will typically have three categories to choose from. The first is general education requirements, which all students are required to take. The second is courses required for specific majors. Under this category, you’ll choose from courses that are relevant to the specific major you’re pursuing. The third is electives, …
A chalk drawing of a clock, with text next to the right that says "how many credit hours should you take?"
questions & answers

How Many Credit Hours Should I Take?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 18, 2025
Key Takeaways: To graduate with a bachelor’s degree in four years, you should take 15 credits a semester. Students generally need to take 120 credit hours total to receive a bachelor’s degree. Associate’s degrees often only require 60 credits. How many credit hours you need to take depends on your graduation timeline, schedule, and the …

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