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For Colleges & Universities

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!
student loans

8 things NOT to do with your student loan money

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 6, 2026
Key takeaways Spending leftover student loan money on non-education related expenses violates the terms of your student loan. Purchases not permitted under student loan guidelines include vacations, vehicles, restaurant meals, home down payments, expensive electronics, clothing upgrades, and paying other debt. You may use your student loan money for any education-related expenses, including tuition and …
A purple background with a dark green circle, with the number 529 in the center.
financial advice & planning

Pros and Cons of a 529 Savings Plan

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
529 plans are a type of tax-advantaged, custodial savings plan designed to help families nationwide cover education-related costs. They are also known as qualified tuition programs or Section 529 plans. Millions of families across America enroll in this plan for the many benefits it offers. However, as with any type of financial plan, it has …
Put the pieces of the puzzle together by knowing what consolidate your student loan means
student loans

What Does it Mean to Consolidate Your Student Loan?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025
Consolidating student loans involves combining multiple federal student loans into one loan with one monthly payment amount and one due date. Consolidation is applicable only to federal student loans. The only way to combine private student loans is by refinancing. Student loan consolidation offers several benefits but there are also a few downsides that you …
Two students holding video game controllers.
scholarships

5 Scholarships for Gamers

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 14, 2025
Key takeaways There are scholarships for students who love gaming, esports, and animation. Some scholarships are made to help women, underrepresented students, or those who need financial support. Deadlines are different for each scholarship, so it’s important to apply early. Do you love gaming and dream of turning that passion into a career? From design …
Use our scholarship checklists to stay on top of your applications
scholarship search & applications

College Scholarship Application Checklists: Search, Prep, Submit

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
The whole scholarship application process can be nerve-wracking. After you’ve gone through hundreds of scholarships opportunities and made a note of all the scholarships you qualify for along with their requirements, it’s then time to put together and submit your applications. Making things even more complicated is the fact that each scholarship opportunity has its …
A tuition-reimbursement program can send your money flying back
questions & answers

What Are College Tuition-Reimbursement Programs?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 7, 2025
Key takeaways College tuition-reimbursement programs help students pay for college by covering part or all of their tuition. These programs are offered by employers, schools, or government initiatives. Tuition payment is usually asked for up front and reimbursed later. Eligibility can depend on employment status, GPA, and enrollment in approved programs. Benefits include less student …
Social Media illustration in circular chart.
scholarship search & applications

How Your Social Media Presence Impacts Your Scholarship

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Your online presence is a powerful thing indeed. Many students work hard at getting good grades, writing a powerful essay, and making sure they tick all the scholarship requirement boxes, but the one area they completely overlook is their online presence. Unfortunately, a dubious digital presence can put your scholarship at risk. At one time social …

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