college admissions, questions & answers

What is the Difference Between Weighted and Unweighted GPA?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

As you apply for colleges and scholarships, you might be seeing the terms “weighted GPA” and “unweighted GPA” thrown around. You already have your GPA written at the top of your high school transcript, but is it weighted or unweighted? We’ll cover exactly what they mean, the difference between the two, and – most importantly …

college admissions

6 Great Alternatives to Traditional 4-Year College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Is a traditional four-year college program just not for you at the moment? Whether you don’t know what you want to do career-wise or the idea of four years in college straight out of high school, there are options available to you! Check out some great alternatives to traditional college below. Why should you consider …

college admissions, questions & answers

What is CLEP? A Student’s Guide to Affordable College Credits

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

CLEP stands for College Level Examination Programs and is a convenient, more affordable way to get college credit without actually having to take the college course. When you take a CLEP test and pass it, you’ll be able to receive credit for the class like you would if you actually took the class for the …

college admissions

What Does Early Admissions Mean?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Early admissions in regard to college refers to the early application processes, generally known as Early Decision and Early Action. Here’s what you need to know about it, the benefits, and whether or not you should apply to college under early admissions. What Does Early Admissions Mean? Early admissions means the process of applying to …

college admissions, myths

Conquering Freshman Fears

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Entering college for the first time is definitely a major life change. You’re (likely) moving out of your house, leaving the K-12 system, leaving your friends, and entering a new chapter of your life. It’s no wonder it can be scary! But know you’re not alone. There are plenty of common fears that new college …

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College Planning Checklist

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 30, 2024

If you’re in high school, it’s never too early to start planning for college! There are quite a few things you’ll need to complete over the next four years, so this college planning checklist will help ensure you’re ticking off all the boxes of jobs you need to get done! 1. Get Involved Volunteer at …

college admissions, questions & answers

How to Be a Better Public Speaker

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 29, 2024

Whether you have to complete a debate project for your high school government class or you need to present your thesis, public speaking can be scary! Thankfully, there are ways to cut down on that anxiety and ensure you’re properly prepared. Here’s a rundown of why public speaking is so important plus some tips to …

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5 Ways to Earn College Credits in High School

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Who says you have to wait for your first year of college to get a start on your degree? You can get a head start on your college credits while still in high school! We’ll cover just five in this article but there may be additional options available to you depending on where you are …

college admissions

Best LSAT Prep Books

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 27, 2024

The Law School Admission Test, better known as the LSAT, is a standardized test that assesses whether an applicant is likely to do well in law school. This test, like many other standardized tests, is rigorous, and often described as challenging — perhaps one of the most challenging. But it is not impossible. Once people …

college admissions, questions & answers

How to Pick the Right AP Classes For You

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

During your high school experience you might be presented with a choice for your upcoming schedule: Do you want to take AP classes? If so, what ap classes should I take? Also known as Advanced Placement, these courses are not for everyone. They’re tougher than other high school classes and can make up a lot …