questions & answers

Ultimate Graduation Checklist For Parents

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 2, 2026

Key takeaways: Parents can help their students prepare for college by visiting campuses, reviewing potential majors, and completing the FAFSA with them. As graduation approaches, help them compare their financial aid offers, review college options, and plan their graduation party. During the summer before college, spend quality time together, consider attending parent orientation, and assist …

college admissions, questions & answers

What is CLEP? A Student’s Guide to Affordable College Credits

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

CLEP stands for College Level Examination Programs and is a convenient, more affordable way to get college credit without actually having to take the college course. When you take a CLEP test and pass it, you’ll be able to receive credit for the class like you would if you actually took the class for the …

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Types of College Credits

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 2, 2026

Key takeaways: Each college class is worth a set number of college credits, or credit hours, often ranging from one to four. You need 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s, which usually includes 60 general elective, 30 major, and 30 elective credits. A full-time student takes an average of 12 credit hours per semester, but …

college admissions, questions & answers

How to Be a Better Public Speaker

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 20, 2026

Key takeaways Becoming a better public speaker takes preparation and practice. Strong public speaking skills can improve your communication skills and career opportunities. Being nervous about public speaking is normal, but the right techniques, like knowing your audience and engagement tactics can help. Your body language and delivery can help you give a good presentation. …

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How To Prepare For A Coding Interview

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

The thought of going for a coding interview can be intimidating, especially if this is your first one. You’re not sure what to expect, which makes it even more difficult to know how to prepare for a coding interview. What should you focus on during your prep? Which are the best books to prepare for …

college admissions, questions & answers

How to Pick the Right AP Classes For You

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 3, 2025

Key takeaways: AP classes can improve your acceptance chances into colleges and can earn you college credit. Competitive colleges and universities, like Ivy League school, expect that you will have taken at least 7 AP classes, some look for even more. Choose AP courses that align with your interests and strengths so you can gain …

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What Is A Master’s Degree: The Ultimate Guide

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 24, 2026

Key Takeaways: Students earn a master’s degree after completing a graduate program at their university. You typically need 2 years to earn a master’s, but the exact timeline depends on the student’s status and major. To apply for a graduate program, you’ll need a bachelor’s, strong GPA and standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. …

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Best Way to Learn Python

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

As technology takes the world by storm, it’s important to be well-versed in the tech language. Programs like Python are super popular and a great way to break into the tech world. To learn Python, you can take courses or do it on your own with free resources. When you take courses, you’ll be able …

college admissions, questions & answers

How Hard is it to Get Into Harvard?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 4, 2024

Key Takeaways: Harvard is one of the most difficult schools to get into in the nation due to the fact that it is a highly ranked college (usually in the top 3 of overall rankings) and that the school receives over around 56,000 applications each year. That’s a high number relative to the only around …

college admissions, questions & answers

College Planning Timeline: Key Deadlines from Freshman Year to Senior Graduation

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 15, 2025

Key Takeaways: January 1 is a common regular decision deadline for college applications, but students who want to apply early often need to submit applications in November. During high school, students should complete a variety of tasks to prepare for college, including meetings with academic advisors and scholarship research. Colleges start sending out regular decision …