questions & answers

A Graduate Student’s Guide to Financial Aid

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 6, 2025

Key Takeaways: Pursuing a master’s degree costs $73,520 on average, and a doctorate could set you back $198,000 or more. Graduate students should complete the FAFSA for federal student loans and to be considered for grants and institutional aid. Students can also apply for scholarships or request tuition assistance from an employer. Going to college …

questions & answers

What is a Fellowship?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 12, 2026

Key takeaways A fellowship is a competitive award that provides money for school, research, or work. Choosing the right fellowship can make you an expert and top professional in your field. Unlike scholarships, fellowships require you to do a project or research in exchange for funds. A strong application needs recommendation letters, transcripts, and a …

questions & answers

When Do I Have to Declare a College Major?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 20, 2025

Key Takeaways: Most students have to declare a college major by the end of their sophomore year or the start of their junior year. Students may declare their major earlier to apply for competitive programs or access advanced courses. Choosing an intended major in high school helps you find the best college for your goals …

myths

More Myths About the SAT

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Plenty of myths circulate around the SAT and you’ve probably have heard a few as you’re preparing for your test date. Believing these myths can actually be detrimental to your final SAT score as well as your college applications. Here are just three you may have heard during high school. Myth: The PSAT Isn’t Important …

tips tools & advice

How to Give Your Digital Presence a Makeover While Prepping for College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 19, 2023

We live in a very digital age. So much of our lives revolve around the internet, as such, much of our lives are on the internet. How much of this content is detrimental to your future? Colleges and employers can absolutely look at what you have put online – or what your friends and family …

myths

Myth: What You Major in has to be a Subject You Are Really Good At

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 18, 2023

It’s a common belief (and misconception) that if you’re good at something, you should make it your life’s path. This is especially the case when it comes to college and your future career. Many students believe that what to major in is entirely tied to whether or not they’re really good at a certain subject. …

scholarship search & applications

Why You Should Send a “Thank You” Note After a Scholarship Interview

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 26, 2025

You might already send thank you notes after your birthday, Christmas, and other special occasions, but you may have never realized it’s a good idea for after scholarship interviews as well. It’s actually a good habit to get into, as it can also be helpful for college and job interviews later on. These are just …

student loans

Pros and Cons of Getting Student Loans Through Credit Unions

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 3, 2025

You’ve received your FAFSA offers, but it may be possible that you need a bit more money to cover your college expenses. Private loans can be a good route for some people. However, not only banks offer loans; Credit unions do as well. Here are some pros and cons of getting your student loans through …

affordability & college cost

The Importance of Knowing Your Net Price

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

There are a lot of prices out there thrown around when it comes to your college education. From sticker price to tuition to room and board, it can be a bit confusing what these terms mean in relation to how much you’ll pay for a year at a particular school. That’s why it’s so important …