college admissions, college applications

Common App Essay Examples

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 28, 2024

You’re 18 years old and staring at your whole life ahead of you. But you need to write an essay for the college application. One that is impactful enough to help get you into the college of your choice. It may feel like you’re just beginning your life, but you’ve already created countless memories that …

college admissions

What Does Class Rank Reporting Mean?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 12, 2024

You may have heard about “class rank” and wondered what it means for college applications. While we know grades and test scores matter, how much weight does your class rank hold? Let’s explore this to better understand what role your class rank report plays in college admissions. What Is Class Rank? Class rank is a …

college admissions

College Decision Day 2024

By Hilary CairnsPublished on April 10, 2024

College Decision Day is usually May 1st, but a delayed Free Application for Federal Student Aid has delayed many financial aid letters. As a result, some colleges and universities are pushing back their Decision Days until May 15th or June 1st. If a student isn’t sure when they need to have their decision in by, …

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 …

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When Do AP Exam Scores Come Out?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 5, 2024

AP tests are regularly scheduled over a 2 week period in May. Students can expect to see their AP exam scores 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 September 1st should contact the AP services for students. …

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 …

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 …

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A Parent’s Guide to College Planning – How Can You Help

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 29, 2024

As you and your child get ready for college, it’s normal to feel excited, nervous, and maybe even a bit overwhelmed. But don’t worry—we’re here to make things simpler for you. This guide is packed with tips and info to help you parents navigate the college planning journey with your child. Let’s work together to …

college admissions

Your Guide to Online GED Programs

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 25, 2024

Online GED classes are a convenient alternative for receiving your high school diploma. Most online GED programs are self-paced so you can access and study the course material at a schedule that works for you. Obtaining a GED certificate can open doors for you in terms of higher education as well as higher paying employment …

college admissions, questions & answers

Preparing for Your Grad School Interview: Tips and Common Questions

By College Raptor StaffPublished on February 28, 2024

Once you’ve successfully applied to your dream grad school and they’ve invited you to interview, it’s time to prepare. Post-graduate interviews are usually part of the application process and include personalized questions to assess your qualifications. Though each graduate program is different, interview panels will often ask general questions to get a sense of your …