College Raptor Staff

Applying to college can be challenging, and so we at College Raptor feel it's our duty to make that process as easy, smooth, and rewarding as possible. We work hard to clarify dense material, dispel myths, uncover information, and help you learn what you need to know!
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student loans

The Advantage Of Federal Student Loans Over Private Ones

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Student loans fall under two broad categories—federal student loans and private student loans. As the name suggests, the federal government offers federal loans. A private student loan is offered by private lenders such as banks, schools, credit unions, and state agencies. There is a huge difference between these two types of loans. Federal student loans …
Should you attend an elite college?
questions & answers

Is Attending An Elite College Right For You?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
The thought of attending an elite college can sound very appealing but the truth is, this may not be the right decision for everyone. Attending an elite college has its fair share of advantages and a few disadvantages as well. Getting to know both sides of the picture will help you make an informed decision. …
Student applying for a loan.
student loans

A Step By Step Guide: How to Take Out Student Loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Learning how to take out student loans is an important skill in the college application process. Most families in America can’t afford to pay for their kid’s college tuition using their personal finances alone. After exhausting scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, students turn to loans to pay for college. When you start looking for student loans, …
Should you write about money in your college essay?
questions & answers

Should You Write About Money in Your College Essay?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
There are several stories online about students who impressed colleges with their outstanding college essays that revolved around money. However, what you don’t read about are the thousands of college essays about money that failed to serve their purpose. So don’t get blindly swayed by these news articles and success stories. Writing about money in …
What does Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) mean?
questions & answers

What is Estimated Family Contribution (EFC)?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
The Estimated Family Contribution or EFC is a calculated measure of your family’s financial strength. It is an index number that colleges use to determine your eligibility for different need-based financial aid programs. What EFC is NOT: Your EFC is not an indication of the amount you or your family are liable to pay towards …
How is the EFC calculated
questions & answers

How Is EFC Calculated Exactly?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
EFC (click here to check out more acronyms) or Estimated Family Contribution is calculated using the information that you provide on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA and CSS) application. The calculation is done according to a formula established by the U. S. Department of Education’s Federal Methodology Calculation. It takes into account the …
Here are things you need to know about forbearance
student loans

What Does Forbearance Mean?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Forbearance is a special type of program that gives students temporary relief from making their loan payments. This is a great alternative for students if money is tight and they cannot afford to make their scheduled loan payments. Unlike when you defer your student loans, where the outstanding payment does not accrue any interest, under forbearance …

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