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!
A solar photovoltaic installer holding a tool and looking out over solar panels.
college search

What is a Trade School?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 26, 2025
Do you dream of styling hair for a living, or maybe making food? What about working on cars? Trade schools can turn those passions into careers! These programs offer fast-tracked, hands-on training in just a few months to two years, and they’re often cheaper than college. You’ll graduate with the skills you need to land …
Student thinking about loan forbearance
questions & answers

Is Student Loan Forbearance Right For Me?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 25, 2025
Forbearance is an option that allows borrowers to postpone loan payments while they’re in school. What’s important to know is that interest does not stop accruing during the time. This accrued interest increases the cost of the loan considerably. However, delaying paying off your student loans can also help you focus on finding a job …
Various coins coming out of a black piggy bank.
financial advice & planning

What Are Tuition Payment Plans?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Tuition payment plans allows students to split their total tuition payment into equal monthly installments. This makes it easier for families to manage college expenses without breaking the bank. Some colleges may call it a tuition installment plan or deferred payment plan. This is different from a standard plan where the full tuition is spread …
College student on phone with her student loan lender
student loans

Student Loans Cost More Than Just The Principal Balance

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Everybody knows that student loans are not free money – they come at a price. Unfortunately, many students underestimate exactly what that price is. There are interest and fees and sometimes even penalties. All in all, student loans cost more than just the principal balance. Let’s break it down.  The True Cost of Student Loans …
A high school student taking a college prep course on her laptop.
college applications

5 Free Online College Prep Courses

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
The thought of attending college can be tremendously exciting. However, it’s not without its challenges. College is nothing at all like high school. Taking a few college prep courses can help to make this transition smoother. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay for these. We’ve put together 5 online college prep classes that can help. …
Student taking an online test at home.
financial aid

Is There College Financial Aid For Homeschooled Students?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023
Financial aid helps students pay for higher education. That includes students who studied at home. Homeschooling has come a long way since a few years ago in terms of college admissions as well as financial aid. Today, colleges welcome homeschool students as long as they meet the school’s eligibility criteria. As for financial aid for …
Student searching for scholarships
scholarship search & applications

What Can I Use Scholarship Money For?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
A scholarship is a free monetary award given to students who meet the funding organizations requirements. Some scholarships are awarded for academic achievements, others for athletic or extracurricular accomplishments. Still others may be awarded for students from a certain demographic or those who demonstrate financial need. But you may ask yourself: what can I use …

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Join thousands of students and parents learning about finding the right college, admissions secrets, scholarships, financial aid, and more.