affordability & college cost

These 10 “expensive” colleges have free college tuition for middle-class families

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 10, 2026

Key takeaways: Some colleges offer free tuition or full financial aid packages to families who make below certain incomes. Harvard, Caltech, and MIT waive tuition costs for students who make less than $200,000. Eligible students need to demonstrate financial need by completing the FAFSA and other requested aid applications. Did you know that some colleges …

financial aid

How to find financial aid for college: 6 strategies for middle-class families

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 23, 2026

Key takeaways: While most middle-class families won’t qualify for the full Pell Grant amount, there are other sources of financial aid that can make college more affordable. To maximize financial aid, complete the FAFSA each year, apply for scholarships, and don’t rule out private colleges. You can further lower the cost of college by attending …

tips tools & advice

20 FREE Online Study Tools and Apps for College Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 9, 2026

It’s easy to forget about schoolwork when you’re on the internet. From cat videos on YouTube to Reddit to TikTok, there are so many rabbit holes to go down! But the internet has also made studying much easier. There are thousands of websites, tools, and apps out there designed to help students learn new skills, …

college search

What Are the Different Types of Colleges?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 2, 2026

Key takeaways: There are several different types of colleges including community colleges, colleges, universities, and vocational colleges All offer different programs, degrees, and educational opportunities. Students should know how colleges differ from one another as it could impact their search for the best school for their needs, wants, goals, and budget. As you explore different …

college search

Finding the Right Size Colleges: Small, Medium or Large Campus?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 5, 2024

Whenever students are asked about their college preferences, one of the things students consider is the size of the school. The majority of college match tools, including College Raptor, ask about preferred college size. There are small, medium, and large size colleges, but how do students know what the right size is for them? Each …

college admissions

Organizations that Help Students in Low-Income Households go to College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 4, 2025

Key Takeaways: A majority of careers require an associate or bachelor’s degree. High tuition costs and limited resource access make it difficult for students from low-income households to go to college. Several organizations advocate for change, provide mentorship, and offer resources to improve college access for low-income families. Due to the high cost of college, …

questions & answers

How Many Times Should I Take the ACT or SAT?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

First: There is no magic number for how many times a student should take the ACT or SAT. For some students, taking the test once may be enough. Others may need to take the test twice or even three times. There are no penalties for taking the tests multiple times or choosing to take both …

questions & answers

How to Start Searching for Colleges: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 8, 2024

Searching for colleges is a process that requires time and dedication. Resources like College Match can help students find the colleges and universities that meet their unique needs and wants in a school. Students thinking about attending college should consider location, size of the school, majors, career options, and more. With nearly 6,000 community colleges, …

college admissions

How to Deal With College Rejection Letters: 6 Steps

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 22, 2024

College rejection letters can hurt. If you get one, stay calm and keep your head up. You have options. If you’ve received a college rejection letter, you should consider writing appeal letter while also celebrating the acceptance letters you do receive. Here’s how you can approach this disappointment. Why Do Colleges Reject Students? The reason …