online colleges

Going Back to School: 5 Critical Questions to Consider

By Kaeli Nieves-WhitmoreLast updated on December 22, 2022

The decision to leave school or simply not attend in the first place is made for a multitude of different reasons. For some, it’s a lack of funds to continue their education. For others, it’s a lack of motivation or drive to finish. And for others still, it is the realization that what you’re studying …

college applications

Understanding Prior-Prior Year FAFSA Filing and What It Means for Students and Parents

By Lynell EngelmyerLast updated on December 22, 2022

The federal government has come up with a wonderfully confusing new name for something that actually simplifies the financial aid process. Let me try to make it easier to understand. Historically, students and parents have used income information from the last full calendar year on financial aid applications (FAFSA). In other words, you used the …

questions & answers

Should I Hire a College Essay Coach?

By Lynell EngelmyerLast updated on December 22, 2022

There aren’t many rising high school seniors who enjoy the process of writing the college essay, but, let’s face it, it is a necessary evil. Happily, you don’t need to go it alone on the journey to write your college essay. But how much help should you have? How much is too much? Should you …

questions & answers

Should You Apply Early Decision or Early Action When Financial Aid Matters?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 16, 2024

Many students and families make difficult decisions when choosing whether to apply Early Decision or Early Action. Particularly, what kind of financial commitment are you making by applying during one of these windows? What if the college doesn’t offer you enough financial aid to make it an affordable option? How does the relationship between early …

ACT & SAT

6 Things Every Student and Parent Needs to Know About the New SAT

By Lauren GaggioliLast updated on June 7, 2023

The SAT has undergone a number of changes in the past 15 years, and it’s set to undergo some new ones in the next year! The biggest one is the fact that the SAT will no longer be done on paper – it will be entirely digital.  Here’s what you need to know about this …

college admissions

What Colleges Look For In Students: GRIT

By Lynell EngelmyerLast updated on December 22, 2022

Some four-letter words could get you in trouble; they might earn you detention or garner a reprimand from your parents. However, there is a particular four-letter word that is actually quite appealing. Not only do colleges want you to say this word, but they also want you to demonstrate it, embrace it, and live it. …

ACT & SAT

FREE Resources for ACT/SAT Test Prep

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 20, 2023

There’s no doubt about it, the ACT and SAT are incredibly important tests. With so much potentially riding on your score—college admittance, scholarships, potential jobs or internships, and more—you’ll want to be as ready as possible when test day comes. And even if your dream school has gone “test optional,” it may still be a …

ACT & SAT

Taking the PSAT and Qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship Program

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022

Every October, over 1.5 million students are taking the PSAT/NMSQT. The Preliminary SAT is also the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Some key things to know about this test: The PSAT/NMSQT tests critical reading, math and writing skills and has a maximum score of 240. Students who score high enough could qualify for the National …

college admissions

Organizations that Help Students in Low-Income Households go to College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 4, 2025

Key Takeaways: A majority of careers require an associate or bachelor’s degree. High tuition costs and limited resource access make it difficult for students from low-income households to go to college. Several organizations advocate for change, provide mentorship, and offer resources to improve college access for low-income families. Due to the high cost of college, …

ACT & SAT

12 Tips to Crush ACT or SAT Test Anxiety

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 30, 2025

Test anxiety is something that many students experience—especially those who are college-bound. Even though ACT and SAT scores are just one piece of the college admissions puzzle, the pressure can feel intense. Whether it stems from fear of failure, high expectations, or low self-esteem, test anxiety can really affect your ability to perform. However, there …