financial aid

What is “demonstrated need” for financial aid?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 10, 2026

Key takeaways: Demonstrated need refers to the difference between a college’s sticker price and the amount a student can afford to pay towards their degree. Colleges and universities use the FAFSA or CSS Profile to view your demonstrated need and determine financial aid packages. You can use net price calculators on school websites and College …

myths

Myth: Internships Are Only for College Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

We most often hear about how a college student we know is aiming for this internship during their summer or that one immediately after graduation, but did you know that interning isn’t only for people in college? Here’s why you should still consider going after that internship even if you’re still in high school: Great …

college applications

How to Save Time on College Applications

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Your senior year of high school is a hectic time, especially if you have work, volunteer, or play sports after class. On top of that, you’re getting prepared to head to college next year! Between the applications, ACT and SAT tests, essays, and more, it can get a bit overwhelming. Here are a few tips …

questions & answers

What are Rolling Admissions?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

While you’re applying to college, you may have come across some schools on your list that use a rolling admission process. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect when applying to one of these colleges: What is it? Rolling admissions is a policy often used for freshman, undergraduates, and law schools. Instead of a …

college applications

Pros and Cons of Using the Universal College App

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023

Do one (or more) of your schools accept the Universal College App? You could save time by using the program – you may only have to do your application once to apply to the schools on your list. But should you? Or can you? Let’s review exactly what centralized college apps are and then go …

college applications

How to Use the Common App to Apply for Colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 17, 2025

Key Takeaways Over 1,000 colleges accept the Common App, a centralized college application. Students can use the resource to save time and effort if they’re applying to more than one school that accepts it. Start on your Common App as soon as possible to give yourself ample time to complete essays and submit other materials. …

financial aid

Financial Aid Timeline: Know What to Do and When

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 13, 2024

The financial aid process can be a bit daunting. Different forms of aid have different formalities, eligibility requirements, and deadlines. The key to benefiting from the various financial aid opportunities is to understand and keep track of the requirements and deadlines. Financial aid is typically distributed on a first come first served basis, so the …

myths

Myth: I Can’t Apply for Scholarships During Second Semester

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Did you think scholarships were only for high school students and incoming freshman? Not quite! There are actually quite a few scholarships you can apply to while you’re in college. Some of the scholarships listed below have due dates in January, designed to be applied for right during the start of your second semester of …

student life

How to Start off Second Semester Right

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

How did your first semester go? We hope it went well! No matter the results though, it’s important to start your second semester off on the right foot. These are a few great tips for any semester though, so make sure to remember them for later years or even if you starting college this fall! …