college applications

Schools With Early Action

By Hilary CairnsPublished on December 19, 2024

Early Action is a great way to apply to colleges you’re sincerely interested in and to get applications out of the way. Applications are usually due on November 1 and 15, but this isn’t a hard and fast rule. In this article, we’ve created a master list of schools with Early Action application cycles so …

college applications

Turn Generosity into Opportunity: National Giving Day for Students

By College Raptor StaffPublished on December 2, 2024

National Giving Day (also known as Giving Tuesday) encourages everyone to give back to their communities with charitable donations, volunteer work, or simply raising awareness for causes that matter. But for college-bound students, National Giving Day is also a chance to make your college application shine. Here’s how you can make the most of your …

college admissions, college applications

5 FREE College Resume Templates

By College Raptor StaffPublished on November 4, 2024

Key Takeaways A college resume can be defined as a brief, one-page summary of a student’s high school accomplishments that highlights relevant education, extracurriculars, work experience, and skills. Important sections in a college resume include contact information, a summary statement, education, extracurricular activities, work experience, and relevant skills. Essential tips for creating a college resume …

college admissions, college applications

A Simplified Guide to QuestBridge and Which Colleges Use it

By Hilary CairnsPublished on September 24, 2024

QuestBridge is a nonprofit organization in the United States that matches high-achieving students from low-income households with leading colleges and universities. Its primary program, the National College Match, helps students gain admission and full scholarships to top-tier schools. If you’re from a low-income household, here’s how you can take advantage of Questbridge. What is the …

college applications, questions & answers

How Much Do Grades Matter in High School?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on September 12, 2024

Key Takeaway Despite the ongoing debate about whether or not grades should be used, they are still important in high school. While they don’t represent the whole picture of who you are, they do play a role in what classes you’re placed in, what colleges accept you, and how much financial aid you may receive. …

college admissions, college applications

Key College Application Deadlines for Fall 2024

By Hilary CairnsPublished on September 5, 2024

Key Takeaways College applications generally start becoming available on August 1. Application deadlines for EA/ED are usually November 1 or 15. Application deadlines for ED II and Regular Decision is usually around January 1. In all cases, students should double check the deadlines with the colleges they will be applying to. In addition to the …

college admissions, college applications

Types of College Essays and How to Approach Them

By College Raptor StaffPublished on August 16, 2024

Although a majority of colleges require application essays, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all topic. There are actually several different college essay types you could be asked to write. They can vary in length requirements, prompts, and style. Some even may request more than one! To help you prepare for your college applications, we listed out some …

college applications

A Complete Guide to Extracurriculars (ECs)

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 19, 2024

Whether you love football, pottery, theater, or being involved in your student government, there is an extracurricular for you. Not only do extracurriculars allow you to pursue your interests, but also make you a well-rounded candidate for college applications. Do you think you might be doing too much or too little when it comes to …

college applications

How to Format Your Personal Statement for Your College Essay

By College Raptor StaffPublished on June 17, 2024

When applying to colleges, you’ll find that there are quite a few steps to the application process. One of the most important (and often the most overwhelming) is the personal statement, also referred to as the college essay. Many students aspire to write a meaningful personal statement, but aren’t always sure where to start. It …

college admissions, college applications

A Complete Guide to AP Classes

By College Raptor StaffPublished on May 29, 2024

Advanced Placement (AP) classes have become increasingly popular, with millions of students enrolling each year. These classes offer high school students the opportunity to take college-level courses across a wide range of subjects. If you’re prepared to embrace a rigorous academic curriculum and earn some college credits before graduation, AP classes could be an excellent …