student loans

How to Pick the Best Student Loan for You

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 24, 2025

You’ve chosen your school for the fall, but now it’s time to choose your student loan. The application process and knowing the pros and cons of each type are the most important when it comes to picking which one is right for you. Here’s a rundown of some of the steps to take and things …

student loans

When Should I Start Thinking About Student Loans?

By Morgan StaubLast updated on March 6, 2025

Every student is faced with a choice when they exit the relative financial comfort of high school to attend an institution of higher learning. Tuition rates are mounting, and it is perhaps more important than in the past to have a plan for college payments. There are several options open to assist students with the …

student loans

Student Loan Forgiveness Programs

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

One of the hot-button issues of the recent decade has been the skyrocketing costs of college tuition. In a greater manner than ever before, students must explore alternate routes of payment in order to attend institutions of higher learning. Around 68% of students who graduated from college in 2015 have student loan debt. The average …

student loans

The Difference Between Direct Subsidized Loans and Unsubsidized

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Applying for the FAFSA matters. When applying for federal aid through FAFSA, you will find that there are two loans for students available through their program: direct subsidized loans and unsubsidized. Your family’s current financial situation and your needs determine which loan lenders offer and which you prefer. Direct Subsidized Loans  Subsidized, also know as …

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 …

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 …

student loans

Your Guide to Private Student Loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 9, 2025

Private student loans, also known as private education loans or alternative education loans, can help fund your education gap when federal aid, scholarships and savings don’t fully cover the cost of school. Private loans are offered by many banks and each have their own requirements, interest rates, and protections. Before you borrow money for college, …

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 …

financial aid

How Will My Parents’ College Savings Affect My Financial Aid?

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

You’re applying to colleges and finally got to the part about financial aid. Calculating financial need is a complicated process. There are so many factors that go into it that families might not always expect. One of these factors, your parents’ college savings accounts, is frequently an area of great concern to parents and students …

student loans

Important Things to Know About Stafford Loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Stafford Loans are a type of federal student loan offered by the U.S. Department of Education.  The Stafford Loan program was established in 1988. It was named after Senator Robert Stafford who was instrumental in passing legislation that transformed the Higher Education Act of 1965. As of 2010 however, the Stafford Loan program was renamed …