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college applications

A Comprehensive Guide to College Essay Format

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 13, 2024
Your college essay is a unique opportunity to present your personality, experiences, and aspirations. It’s a chance to go beyond test scores and transcripts to shine in the college application process truly. This is your moment to stand out, to show who you are, not just your achievements. It should demonstrate your ability to reflect …
college admissions

What Does Class Rank Reporting Mean?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 23, 2025
Key Takeaways: Class rank refers to how a student ranks based on their GPA compared to other students in their class. High schools may determine class rank using weighted GPAs, unweighted GPAs, or both. While many colleges still look at class ranks, only 5.5% of colleges viewed it as of “considerable importance” to their admission …
college admissions

College Decision Day 2026

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 12, 2026
College Decision Day is usually May 1st. Most students need to decide where they’re attending college by May 1st and submit a deposit to secure their spot. If a student isn’t sure when they need to have their decision in by, reach out to the college as soon as possible. Many schools will be flexible …
college admissions

A Complete Guide to AP Exams

By Hilary CairnsPublished on April 5, 2024
So you’ve signed up for an Advanced Placement (AP) class. At the end of your school year, you’ll be tasked with taking an AP exam. Doing well on this test can help you get credit for your college education and give you a head start on your degree. Use this complete guide to AP exams …
college admissions

When Do AP Exam Scores Come Out?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 23, 2025
Key Takeaways: AP tests are regularly scheduled over a 2-week period in May, with late exams available the following week. Students can expect to see their AP exam scores released early to mid-July. Testers can view results through the My AP Account on the College Board. Students who don’t see their test results by August …
A person holding a blue pencil writing in a notebook.
college admissions

How Long Are AP Exams?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 5, 2024
Most AP exams are between two and three hours long, but the exact length of the test depends on the subject. Many of the tests are closer to three hours than two, and every AP exam has a break in the middle. Here’s what you need to know about the length of AP exams, their …
Student studying to earn college credits in high school.
college admissions

Can You Retake an AP Exam?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 5, 2024
Yes, you can retake an AP exam. However, AP exams are only held in May, which means you will have to wait a year to retake the test. But should you? Here are some things you need to know about AP test scores, college credit, and retaking the exam. How are AP Exams Scored? AP …
A college student sitting in front of a laptop.
college admissions

Unlocking your future: the benefits of online GED schools

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 30, 2026
Key takeaways Online GED schools let you study for your high school equivalency diploma on your own schedule. Most programs offer flexible, self-paced courses with online support and practice tests. Online GED preparation covers math, science, social studies, and language arts. Choosing an accredited program with strong student support can improve your chances of success. …

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