myths

Myth: I HAVE to Answer My ACT/SAT Questions in Order

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You may have heard it said before that you have to answer your ACT or SAT questions in exact order, but did you know that’s not exactly true? In any particular section, you can absolutely jump around from question to question! Here’s a bit of myth debunking on this so-called “fact:” Skip the Toughies Part …

ACT & SAT

What Is A SAT Subject Test And Should You Take It?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

All students know about the importance of taking the SAT test for college applications but not many know about SAT subject tests and others mistakenly use the term interchangeably with SAT tests. The two are not the same. SAT subject tests are distinctly different from SAT tests. What is a Subject Test? An SAT subject …

college admissions

What does test optional, test flexible, and test blind mean?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 20, 2026

Key takeaways Students can choose to submit or not submit their ACT/SAT scores at a test-optional college, though some schools may recommend it. Test-flexible colleges accept more tests than just the ACT or SAT. Test-blind schools don’t consider scores as part of their admission processes and won’t look at any results submitted. The SAT and …

ACT & SAT

A Guide to Choosing the ACT or SAT

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Most colleges specify that they require test scores in an application—though almost all students will take either test. Depending on where you live in the US, one test or the other could be much more popular, and so your high school may only offer one. Taking the other might be trickier, but could be well …

ACT & SAT

Unusual ACT & SAT Test Prep Tips

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You’ve heard all the regular ACT and SAT test prep tips: Take the practice exams and check your answers. Focus on your weak areas. So here are a few tips that are a bit more unusual when it comes to your ACT and SAT study time. Use a Distraction Add On It’s easy to get …

ACT & SAT

What Do Standardized Tests Measure and Why Take Them?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 9, 2024

Standardized testing is a highly debated topic. Many question its accuracy in assessing the true abilities and potential of students. Regardless, standardized tests still carry significant weight in the college admissions process. So the question remains: What exactly are standardized tests, and why take them? What is Standardized Testing? A standardized test is when students …

college applications

Can You Submit Videos As Part Of Your College Application?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 1, 2023

The short answer is yes, you can submit videos as part of your college applications (for certain colleges, not all accept them). Whereas earlier, video applicants were a common requirement for applications to art and design schools, nowadays they are being accepted by more and more 4-year colleges. This is great news if you are …

ACT & SAT

Using the Process of Elimination on the ACT / SAT

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

When it comes to taking tests, you want to give yourself the best chance that you can. This means a lot of studying and knowing your facts. But there will be times when you don’t know something, or you can’t remember all the elements. Times like these call for educated guesses. Benefits of the Process …

ACT & SAT

The Importance of Understanding Your Mistakes on ACT/SAT Practice Tests

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

When you’re taking an SAT or ACT practice test, you’re doing it for more than just to see how many you can get right on your first try (or second or third). You should be timing yourself, but also seeing what mistakes you make and, more importantly, why you made that mistake so you can …

college applications

Things Your High School Counselor Can Do For You

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 6, 2025

Every high school student has at least one, but when is the last time you visited your guidance counselor? Many students don’t take full advantage of all the benefits the office has to offer. Here are just three things you counselor can do for you, freshman year to senior. Academic Assistance from Your Counselor Most …