All Financial Aid Articles

financial advice & planning, financial aid

What is a college tuition bill?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on June 15, 2026
Key takeaways: College tuition bills are statements that itemize school charges, such as tuition, mandatory fees, housing, meal plans, and health insurances. Always read over your tuition bill to check for accuracy, reaching out to the financial aid office if you have any questions. You can typically view and pay your bill through the online …
We cover a few community college myths below.
financial aid, questions & answers

Is community college free in California?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on November 25, 2025
Key takeaways: Some eligible students receive tuition waivers at California community colleges through the California Promise. Others may receive fee waivers, living allowances, and Pell Grants to help lower the overall cost. To increase your chances of free community college in California, complete the FAFSA, apply for the Cal Grant, and research scholarships. On average, …
What's the difference between grants and scholarships?
financial aid

Will The Pell Grant Change as a Result of the OBBB?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 11, 2025
Key Takeaways: The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) was signed into law on July 4, 2025, and will bring some changes to the Pell Grant in 2026. Students will no longer be able to receive the Pell Grant if they have grant aid that meets or exceeds their cost of attendance. The OBBB also affects …
financial aid

Understanding Financial Aid Disbursement Dates

By College Raptor StaffPublished on July 7, 2025
Key Takeaways: Financial aid disbursement dates often range from a few days before classes start to several weeks into the semester. Students might qualify for early disbursement if the school offers it, and they meet certain requirements. If you have financial aid money left over after you’ve paid your college bill, you’ll receive a refund …
financial aid

Where to Find Financial Assistance for Home Schooling

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 21, 2025
Key Takeaways: Many states offer financial assistance in the form of educational vouchers, scholarships and grants for home schooling families, however programs vary widely in terms of eligibility and requirements. The best place to find these programs is to search your state’s education department website. Homeschooling has become increasingly more popular in recent years, with …
financial aid

50+ Common Discounts for College Students

By College Raptor StaffPublished on February 12, 2025
Key Takeaway: From covering tuition to the cost of living, college is expensive—but student discounts can help relieve some of that burden. Wondering if your favorite brands offer student discounts? We’ve broken down 50 student discounts into these categories: Tech & Software Entertainment Food & Dining Transportation Insurance Cell Phones Memberships & Subscriptions Retail Fitness …
FAFSA Application Forms.
financial aid

35 Interesting FAFSA Stats All Students Should Know

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 28, 2025
As a college planning platform, we talk a lot about FAFSA. And while it’s commonly recommended that EVERY student fills out the FAFSA, only around 50% actually do. That means another 50% of students attending higher education are likely leaving potential aid on the table. We thought it would be interesting to cover some of …

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

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