All Getting in Articles

College student typing on a laptop.
college applications

How to Write an Essay Introduction

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 14, 2024
When it comes to telling a story, the beginning is an important part. Whether it’s the opening scene of a movie or the first chapter of a book, beginnings need to be interesting to get people’s attention. The same is true when it comes to writing an essay. This is especially true if you are …
A close-up shot of a coding program.
questions & answers

Best Way to Learn Python

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022
As technology takes the world by storm, it’s important to be well-versed in the tech language. Programs like Python are super popular and a great way to break into the tech world. To learn Python, you can take courses or do it on your own with free resources. When you take courses, you’ll be able …
college admissions, questions & answers

How Hard is it to Get Into Harvard?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 4, 2024
Key Takeaways: Harvard is one of the most difficult schools to get into in the nation due to the fact that it is a highly ranked college (usually in the top 3 of overall rankings) and that the school receives over around 56,000 applications each year. That’s a high number relative to the only around …
A high school student taking a college prep course on her laptop.
college applications

How to Prepare for the Common App

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022
You absolutely should take time to enjoy your summer, but if you’re a junior about to head to senior year, don’t forget about your college applications completely! You should actually complete a few steps over the coming weeks so you’re not scrambling at the last minute to get it all done. We recommend starting early, …
The Official SAT Study Guide best college prep books
ACT & SAT

Best SAT Prep Books: Your Guide to Success

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 27, 2024
At no extra cost to you, College Raptor may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.  When it comes to studying for the SAT, it is much like studying for anything else. We all have our strengths that we can feel confident in, weaknesses that we need to work on, and strategies that …
Should you use the Common Application when applying to colleges
questions & answers

Why Isn’t There a Common App for Scholarships?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022
If you’re completing scholarship applications, you may be a bit overwhelmed by the number of forms you have to fill out and essays you need to complete. You wouldn’t be the first student to ask, “Why isn’t there a Common App for scholarships like there is for college applications?” Sadly, there are no standardized applications …
Two high school girls visiting a college before applying to it.
questions & answers

How Much Harder is High School Than Middle School?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022
As you get ready to head into freshman year of high school, there’s no doubt there are some jitters. That’s okay! You might be pleasantly surprised to learn, however, that high school isn’t necessarily harder, but it is certainly different. High School vs. Middle School: Is It That Much Harder? It’s natural for classes to …
dorms in college.
questions & answers

Requesting Dorms? How to Play the Game

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022
Getting that perfect dorm room in the right location in the correct housing can be a bit stressful. If your dorm selection date is on the horizon, you need to know how to play the game, how selecting one works well ahead of time, and why you should never wait until last minute. Here’s the …

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