financial advice & planning

Credit Card Tips for College Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

A credit card is a powerful financial tool. And getting one in college offers multiple benefits. It offers you financial flexibility, so you’ll never get stuck without money at any time. You also get access to attractive rewards and perks on your purchases. Getting cash back or points on your credit card spends means you …

financial advice & planning

Should I Invest in NFTs to Pay for College?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You may have heard of the recent financial advice that recommends you invest in NFTs to help you pay for college. However, it’s important to know what exactly an NFT is and your options before making a decision. What are NFTs and How do They Work? An NFT, or a non-fungible token, is a virtual …

financial aid

The True Cost of College: How Much Does Your Education Really Cost?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 21, 2025

Key Takeaways The total cost of college will include tuition, room and board, books, supplies, transportation, and other living expenses. Depending on the type of college you attend—a two-year college, four-year public in-state university, four-year public out-of-state university, or a four-year private university—you can expect to see different published tuition costs (the sticker price) and …

scholarships

When to Start Looking for Scholarships

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023

When to start looking for scholarships? The short answer is: whenever you can! A common myth is that only high school seniors can or need to apply for scholarships. However, not only are scholarships available to all high school grade students, but they are for all college students too! There are billions of dollars in …

scholarships

Q&A With $1,000 Scholarship Winner Chloe Putz!

By Cat GallagherLast updated on January 24, 2023

Congratulations are in order for College Raptor’s most recent $1,000 scholarship winner Chloe Putz! Her essay made me curious about Chloe’s college journey. Luckily, she was kind enough to answer a few more questions. Here’s what she had to say! Tell us about yourself. I am an outgoing senior at a small high school in …

scholarships

Q&A Interview with Scholarship Winner Katriana Meiman!

By Cat GallagherLast updated on January 24, 2023

Congratulations to Katriana Meiman, winner of the $2500 College Raptor scholarship! Kat wrote the winning essay in round 16 of College Raptor’s Scholarship program. We had a chance to chat with her about her college journey and here’s what she had to say. Tell us a little bit about yourself. I live just outside of …

financial advice & planning

What Is A Student Loan Ombudsman?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

A student loan ombudsman is an independent resource committed to helping student loan borrowers. They help borrowers identify better repayment options and explain interest and default charges. They also act as independent mediators between student loan borrowers and lenders. If you’re having problems with your Issues A Student Loan Ombudsman Can Help With A student …

questions & answers

How To Write A Thank You Letter For A Scholarship

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023

Scholarships can be a game changer for your college career. They can significantly reduce the amount of student loans you’ll need to take out, making the transition to post-grad life much easier on your finances. Knowing how to write a thank you letter for a scholarship is key! Scholarships come from all different organizations and …

scholarships

How To Get a Full Ride Scholarship

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023

One of the biggest hurdles of college is often the cost. The price tag of college can be daunting and can make or break your decision for where to pursue higher education. But the hope of scholarships can help with that. There are certain requirements to aim for when it comes to applying for scholarships …

financial aid

Good Excuses for Financial Aid Appeal

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023

Did you receive a financial aid offer that was less than you expected? Or have financial circumstances changed where the financial aid you received doesn’t reach what you need to attend college? You need good excuses for financial aid appeal, but it is possible. Meaning, you need to have an acceptable reason in order to …