All Getting in Articles

A student looking through a pair of binoculars.
college admissions

What Do Colleges Look for From Students?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 5, 2025
Key Takeaways: In most cases, colleges look for high grades, strong SAT/ACT scores, and positive personal qualities. Schools evaluate applications differently and may weigh certain application components more heavily than another. Understanding what college admissions wants from a student can help you tailor your applications for each school. Colleges care about your grades and standardized …
This diagram shows the process of applying to a college early action and the possible outcomes.
questions & answers

Is Early Action Right for Me?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 6, 2023
Early action is an admissions process available at some schools that allows students to apply before the general application deadline of January 1st. While it definitely has some benefits for students who choose to apply early, it’s not right for everyone. So is early action worth it for you? We help you answer that question …
Chart shows the differences at a number of colleges and universities in admission rate for students that apply regular decision versus those who apply early decision.
questions & answers

Should I Apply Early Decision to College?

By Olivia PittmanLast updated on December 22, 2022
Prepared students with a single first choice college may consider applying early decision. Early decision is binding–meaning if you apply and are accepted early decision to a college, you are expected to go there, with almost no exception. There are a lot of reasons students apply this way. Many believe it’s easier to be accepted …
college applications

How to Build a Great College Application List

By William StaibLast updated on December 22, 2022
How many colleges should prospective students apply to? What if a student isn’t accepted to any of the schools on their list? One of the most important parts of the college search process is building a college application list. Why should you make a list? It’s critical that students create a balanced college application list …

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Join thousands of students and parents learning about finding the right college, admissions secrets, scholarships, financial aid, and more.