college applications

Pros and Cons of Declaring Your Major on a College Application

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Declaring your major on your college application has its advantages, but there can be a downside to it as well. Understanding the pros and cons of declaring a major on your college application can help you make a more informed decision. Pros Of Declaring Your Major Declaring your intended major tells the college that you …

college applications

College Application Tips For Homeschooled Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

In some ways, the college application process for homeschooled students may be slightly different than that for traditional students. If you are a homeschooled student, you may not be able to submit a traditional transcript of course grades. You may also not be able to meet the recommendation letter criteria laid out for traditional students. …

college applications

Steer Clear of These Topics on Your College Essay

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

When you are writing your college essay, it is crucial that your message is clear and unmistakable. There should be no confusion about what you are trying to say. While there are a few subjects that you definitely should talk about, there are a few that you should steer clear of. Political And Religious Issues …

college applications

How to Improve Your GPA!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Improving your GPA should be a goal whether you’re in high school or college, a freshman or a senior. A high GPA will look excellent on both a college application and a resume. Here are some steps you can take to improve your GPA: Set Aside Time To Study Studying before a test is a …

college applications

The HiSET and TASC Tests: What are They?

By Liz SkogerboeLast updated on December 22, 2022

Have trouble finishing high school and wondering what your next steps may be? If you were planning on taking the GED (General Education Diploma), be sure to consider the HiSET and TASC tests as well. These tests are all used to measure your knowledge in accordance with that of a typical high school graduate. HiSET …

college applications

Writing an Effective Application Essay: Consider Your Failures

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

As humans, we like painting ourselves in the best light possible. It makes sense: We want to be seen as successful, as people who have accomplished things. What we sometimes forget is that talking about our failures can actually be a way to do this. Here’s a different approach to writing a college application essay: …

college applications

How To Use Your Online Presence To Boost Your College Application

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Almost every student has an online presence today, whether it is on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, some other social networking site, or their own blog. Colleges and universities are aware of this and are increasingly using the internet to get to know more about prospective students. Instead of letting this worry you, why not use this …

college applications

Your Guide to Using the Common App for College Applications

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 12, 2024

What is the Common App Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Common App What are the Common App Essay Prompts? Pros of the Common App Cons of the Common App Tips for Completing Your Application Common App FAQ When applying for jobs, you have to complete different applications for different positions within different companies. Many expect …

college applications

5 Things You Can Do To Make Your College App Stand Out

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

When assessing applications and shortlisting candidates who are a good fit for their college, admissions authorities look for more than just academic grades. While your transcripts may be a key criteria, colleges also want to know who you are beyond academics. Are you a good leader? What is the extent of your social and community …

college applications

Understanding the Different College Application Deadlines

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 4, 2024

Submitting your application within the deadline is the single most important part of the admissions process. Taking the time to put together an outstanding application, complete with a brilliant personal essay and impressive recommendation letters is futile if you don’t send your application in on time. Very few colleges, if any, will even bother to …