college applications

Do’s and Don’ts: What to Include in College Applications

By Jasmine BarnesLast updated on December 22, 2022

College applications are a vital part of your ticket to higher education. However, the process is not so glamorous. Actually, it’s a lot harder than it looks. With thousands and thousands of applicants applying to various institutions across the country each year, how do you “stand out” as your guidance counselors told you to? How …

questions & answers

Questions to ask at orientation: a checklist for students and parents (w. free download)

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 10, 2026

Key takeaways: Attending freshman orientation helps new college students get to know their campus and find answers to important questions, making the adjustment to college smoother. During orientation, students can learn more about meal plans, academic resources, when and how to sign up for classes, and much more. Parents may also have a chance to …

ACT & SAT

100 Must-Know ACT and SAT Vocabulary Words

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 12, 2025

Key Takeaways: When taking the ACT or SAT, you’ll come across a variety of vocabulary questions that require you to use context clues to answer them—but knowing the words beforehand gives you a major advantage. Building your vocabulary and practicing definitions can help increase your confidence and knowledge on test day. From A-Z, we’ve compiled …

online colleges

Online M.Ed./MAT Program Admissions: What You Need to Get In

By Katelyn McAdamLast updated on December 22, 2022

There are numerous benefits to getting your Master’s in Education. Not only will your pedagogical knowledge expand, but you will also broaden your network of fellow teachers, become eligible for leadership roles, and receive a nice pay increase. As you’re considering applying to online M Ed programs or MAT programs, one of the first questions …

online colleges

What’s the Difference Between an Online and Traditional Business Degree Program?

By Tyler HakesLast updated on December 22, 2022

Many students considering a business degree are now thinking about pursuing one through an online program. As you might expect, an online business degree program offers many benefits for students. Specifically, it offers a lot of flexibility and convenience that matches up the busy life many people lead. This can allow people to obtain their …

online colleges

Best Online Graduate Education (MEd & MAT) Degree Programs

By Tyler HakesLast updated on December 22, 2022

Our top online graduate education degree ranking is meant to highlight institutions that offer the best Master of Education (MEd) and Master of Art in Teaching (MAT) degrees. Plenty of people go back to school for either their MEd or MAT, whether it’s because they want to advance their careers or are required to by …

online colleges

How to Pay for Your Online Business Degree

By Tyler HakesLast updated on December 22, 2022

So you’ve decided to pursue an online business degree. That’s great! But how will you pay for it? First things first, don’t freak out too much. Yes, obtaining your degree can be expensive. But there are many ways to finance an education. Combine that with smart college and career planning and you should be just …

online colleges

Online Business Degree Admissions: What You Need to Get Accepted

By Tyler HakesLast updated on December 22, 2022

One of the scariest parts of going to college can be the admissions process. You spend months looking for just the right schools where you want to apply, you submit a small form, and then–you wait. It can be a bit excruciating for students who are hoping for a quick answer. In the world of …

college admissions

You’ve Been Wait-Listed, Now What?

By Katelyn McAdamLast updated on December 22, 2022

You’ve spent countless hours completing and sending in college applications. Then you played the waiting game. Some schools responded faster than others, but you finally got the envelope you’ve been waiting for. You tear into it, trying to keep your nerves in check and not completely shred the letter that’s waiting inside. After unfolding the …

college applications

10 Tips on How to Write a Killer Personal Statement

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 24, 2025

Key Takeaway A personal statement is your opportunity to share more personally about yourself with a college, program, or employer. To get you started, we’ve put together 10 tips to help you write an amazing personal statement: follow instructions, talk to others, outline your ideas, stay positive, show—don’t tell, address inconsistencies, know your audience, connect …