college search

10 Reasons to Attend a Research University

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022

A research university is known for being large and focusing heavily on research. In addition to offering numerous undergraduate degrees, research universities are committed to graduate education through the doctorate degree. The size of research universities can be a turn off for many students who want a more intimate college experience. However, most students at …

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10 Reasons to Attend a Liberal Arts College and Universities

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022

So, what is a liberal arts college? They’re not always household names. For many, the first time you hear the name of a liberal arts college is when it comes up in your college search. However, these colleges provide amazing education, engaged communities, and superb preparation for the future. (And, most importantly, not “just arts” …

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10 Reasons to Attend a Public College or University

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022

Public colleges and universities sometimes get a bad rap. For some reason, many people think state schools are not as rigorous or prestigious as fancy private colleges and universities. However, public colleges and universities offer many great advantages that may not be available at private institutions. State schools are not for everyone, but for some, …

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Regional Gems: Midwest

By Olivia PittmanLast updated on December 22, 2022

The Midwest is full of big universities–it’s home to the Big 10 after all! And while these schools are great for some students, they aren’t right for everyone. Some are better fit for smaller colleges, of which they may not even be aware. To shed light on small but deserving colleges around the country, we continue …

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Regional Gems: West & South

By Olivia PittmanLast updated on December 22, 2022

At College Raptor, we help students find colleges that fit them financially, socially, and academically–which means looking at more than just big-name universities. That’s why we’re drawing attention to smaller colleges across the nation which deserve consideration but may be initially overlooked because of their size. As a continuation of our series on hidden gem …

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Regional Gems: Northeast

By Olivia PittmanLast updated on December 22, 2022

Many people automatically associate education in the Northeast with the Ivy League. But students desiring a world-class education don’t have to focus on those 8 schools. There are many great, smaller colleges in the Northeast where undergraduates can receive a valuable and meaningful education. To bring attention to these smaller and perhaps lesser-known colleges, College …

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20 Pet Friendly Colleges

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 15, 2025

It’s hard to resist the allure of animals and if you’ve had pets all your life, it’s not the easiest thing to leave them behind while you’re away at school. It’s true that many schools have therapy dog programs nowadays (although usually only around finals week), but if you’re looking for a slightly more permanent …

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Hidden Gems: The Best Colleges In Each State That Receive Fewer than 5,000 Applications Per Year

By Tyler HakesLast updated on June 17, 2024

College Raptor aims to help students find their best fit colleges, academically, culturally, and financially. While big colleges can be a great fit for some students, others do better on smaller campuses. To bring attention to small colleges around the country, we’ve developed this map highlighting the top hidden gem college in each state. In …

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What Are the Different Types of Colleges?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 21, 2023

There are several different types of colleges including community colleges, colleges, universities, and vocational colleges All offer different programs, degrees, and educational opportunities. Students should know how colleges differ from one another as it could impact their search for the best school for their needs, wants, goals, and budget. As you explore different types of …

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5 Tips on Working with Your School Counselor on Your College Search

By Lynell EngelmyerLast updated on December 22, 2022

According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, the national student-to-counselor ratio, is 478 to 1, nearly double the number recommended by the American School Counselor Association. Some states, like Minnesota, have a ratio of nearly 800 students for every school counselor, giving it the second-highest ratio in the nation, behind California.  Of course, …