College Raptor Staff

Applying to college can be challenging, and so we at College Raptor feel it's our duty to make that process as easy, smooth, and rewarding as possible. We work hard to clarify dense material, dispel myths, uncover information, and help you learn what you need to know!

College Raptor Reveals Tenth Annual Hidden Gem Colleges for 2025

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 19, 2024
Rankings Highlight Exceptional, Under-the-Radar Schools Across the Nation PROVIDENCE, R.I. – (September 19, 2024) – College Raptor, Citizens’ college planning platform and the most comprehensive college search site, today released its tenth annual “Hidden Gem” rankings, an unmatched list spotlighting excellent, yet lesser-known schools by state and region. The 2025 rankings also include top colleges …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Far West US

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 18, 2024
From sunny beaches to snowy mountains to rainy coasts, the Far West region is beautifully diverse. In addition to a variety of landscapes, the Far West is home to a variety of both well-know and “hidden gem” colleges and universities. The 2025 Hidden Gem Colleges in the Far West spotlights some great schools that you …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Great Lakes Region

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 18, 2024
The Great Lakes region is home to thousands of lakes (not just the big 5), beautiful destinations like Indiana Dunes, Marquette Ore docks, and Sleeping Bear dunes, and some even more amazing “Hidden Gem” colleges. This Hidden Gem colleges in the Great Lakes region list highlights some of the smaller but mighty colleges and universities …
badge for southwest hidden gem colleges

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southwest US

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 18, 2024
Home to vast deserts, sprawling cities, rugged mountains, and deep canyons, the Southwest is a dynamic and unique region. The area also boasts some of the most unique colleges in the country. While some big names call this area home, too, we are highlighting “hidden gem” schools in the region. These are college that are …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Plains Region

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 18, 2024
America’s heartland (or, the Plains region as we call it) is vast, fertile, and filled with various industries. Additionally, the Plains region home to exceptional institutions that you might consider “hidden gem” colleges. What Is a “Hidden Gem?” All of our rankings account for things like diversity, endowment, graduation rates, and more. To be classified …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Rocky Mountain Region

By College Raptor StaffPublished on September 18, 2024
Spanning over 3,000 miles from New Mexico to northern British Columbia in Canada, the Rocky Mountain region is a dream come true for students who would love to spend their study breaks exploring national parks and the beautiful outdoors. If pairing your love for the outdoors with a stellar education sounds good to you, check …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 19, 2024
If you love warm weather and good food, the Southeast United States may be the perfect location for you to pursue your higher education! Already home to some of the oldest and most impressive schools in the country, these Southeast states are also home to some of the best “hidden gem” colleges we could find. …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Mid-East

By College Raptor StaffPublished on September 18, 2024
Also known as the Mid-Atlantic region, the Mid-East region of the United States is home to some of the most amazing colleges in the country. Some pre-date the American Revolution. With so many standout names, though, it can be easier to overlook some colleges that deserve more attention. College Raptor aims to highlight those schools …

NCAA Division II (D2) Hidden Gem Colleges

By College Raptor StaffPublished on September 18, 2024
If you are a student looking to continue playing sports in college, you have several options. If you just want to play for fun, joining one your schools’ intramural sports teams is a great option. But if you are looking to play competitively and earn an athletic scholarship, you are probably considering an NCAA or …

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