Hilary Cairns

Hilary Cairns is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz and has a BA in English/Creative Writing. She's an established freelance writer who also has a hand in marketing, social media, and editing for various businesses across the United States.
Are you considered an independent or dependent student?
questions & answers

What’s the difference between an independent and dependent student?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 3, 2026
Key takeaways: An independent student can complete the FAFSA by themselves, while a dependent student needs a parent to contribute to their application. Independent students are typically over 24 years old, married, veterans, active duty, or legally emancipated from their parents. If your parents won’t help with your FAFSA, contact your college’s financial aid department …
Can you reapply to a college if you've been deferred?
college admissions

How to Navigate a College Deferred Admission Decision

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 8, 2025
When you apply to a college under early action or early decision, you can get back three responses: accepted, rejected, or deferred. Deferred means the college wants to review your application again with the regular decision applicants. It can be stressful, as you’ll have to play the waiting game, but here are some things you …
Here are the different types of student loan repayment options
student loans

Types of Federal Student Loan Repayment Plans

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 25, 2025
There are several different federal student loan repayment plans you can choose from, each one designed to meet different needs and requirements. The repayment plan you choose will impact your cost of borrowing as well as the time it takes to clear the debt. Understanding the different types of federal student loan repayment plans, how …
A group of students sitting together in front of one laptop, with a few students standing behind them.
student loans

Types of Federal Student Loans

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 9, 2025
The federal loans program in the United States is officially known as the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. Under the Department of Education, there are three types of federal student loans available: direct subsidized, direct unsubsidized, and Direct PLUS loans. It’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons before choosing which is …
Here are 10 tips to help you get the best score on the SAT or ACT.
ACT & SAT

10 Tips to Help You Score Your Best on College Entrance Exams

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 13, 2025
The ACT and SAT aren’t tests where you can memorize and regurgitate the content. College entrance exams require specific techniques and preparation if you want to earn a top score. These 10 simple tips will help you score your best on the ACT or SAT. 1. Keep your cool. With adequate preparation, you can have …
Rows of sociology books on bookshelves.
tips tools & advice

How to Select the Right Research Topic in 6 Easy Steps

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 10, 2025
Being able to choose suitable research topics is an important skill for any student to have. Why? Well, when you select a topic that resonates with you, it tends to make all the difference in your writing. Choosing the right research topic isn’t just about getting a good grade, it’s imperative for helping the process …
A student holding an open textbook in their lap.
scholarship search & applications

The Right Time to Apply for Scholarships

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 7, 2025
Key Takeaways It’s never too early for students to start their scholarship hunt—there are scholarships available for all ages throughout the entire year. You can find scholarships using scholarship finders (i.e., College Raptor), your high school, local organizations, and college financial aid offices. The best times to apply for scholarships are whenever there is an …
college majors
careers & internships

Most useful college degrees

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 23, 2026
Key takeaways: Every college degree holds value, but some college degrees have higher rates of employment after graduation than others. Nursing, Construction Services, Engineering, Accounting, and Special Education are some undergraduate majors with low unemployment rates. When selecting a major, consider job placement rates, salary potential, interests, strengths, weaknesses, required education, and more. Although all …
Joanne O’Riordan, a girl with no limbs, in a wheelchair giving a speech.
financial aid

Social Security disability benefits for college students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 19, 2026
Key takeaways: Social Security disability benefits for college students can help them afford tuition and other educational expenses. However, income restrictions on SSI can limit how a recipient can earn money to pay for college. Some resources, such as the Pell Grant and scholarships, don’t count towards income for SSI, as long as the money …

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