financial advice & planning

Ways To Reduce College Living Costs

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023

Applying to college and getting in can have you on a high of emotions that quickly come crashing down when you start to look at the finances of actually going to college. Your college living expenses can add up through the years and if you’re not mindful of your spending habits, you can end up …

questions & answers

What is a Permanent Home Address? What it means for your student.

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 24, 2025

Key Takeaways: Your permanent home address is your fixed address that you use on official documents. It can affect financial aid eligibility, college acceptance chances, and tuition rates. Lying about your permanent home address can result in lost financial aid and acceptance offers. A permanent home address is a person’s fixed address. It’s used on …

student loans

Pros and Cons of Consolidating Federal Student Loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

It’s important to understand the pros and cons of consolidating federal student loans before choosing this option. Consolidating federal student loans involves combining many federal loans into one loan. Resulting with one monthly payment amount and one payment due date. With less loans to track, it reduces the risk of missing a payment. There are …

financial aid, questions & answers

How to Raise Money for College Tuition

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023

Are you worried about being able to afford your college tuition this fall? You’re definitely not alone, and there are actions you can take to try to make it a bit more affordable. To raise money for college tuition, aim to create a budget and plan for improving your finances. This could include completing your …

financial advice & planning

What is “Credit Card Education” for Young Adults?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023

Getting your own credit card is one of many thrills of entering the age of adulthood. That’s when you turn 18 years of age in some states and 21 years in others. Having a credit card increases your purchasing power and gives you the opportunity to building your credit score. Yet, using your credit card …

financial aid

What Are The Basic Eligibility Criteria For Federal Financial Aid?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023

Federal financial aid refers to funding offered by the federal government. It includes grants, work-study, and various types of student loans. All of these help to lower the cost of college considerably. What Are The Eligibility Criteria For Getting Federal Financial Aid? Basic eligibility criteria for federal financial aid include the following: Be a U.S. …

financial advice & planning, questions & answers

Are College Scholarships Taxable?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023

You’ve won a scholarship – congratulations! Now you may have a nagging worry in the back of your mind – is this award taxable? In most cases, the answer is, “No, scholarships are not taxable.” However, there are exceptions. Here’s what you need to know about taxes and awards for your educational future. Are College …

financial advice & planning

The Basics of Credit and Why Is It Important for Your Financial Future

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 12, 2025

Credit is an integral part of building a solid financial future. It determines your ability to get a line of credit in the form of credit cards and loans. It also impacts the cost of borrowing. While good credit can make borrowing a breeze, bad credit can severely restrict your options. Let’s explore more about …

financial advice & planning

Roth vs. 529 – Which Is Better?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 24, 2023

Roth IRAs and 529s are two types of tax-friendly accounts that can help families save for college tuition. As with any other type of saving program, neither one is best for all families, and both offer great benefits. Each has its own downsides too. Understanding the fundamentals of Roth vs. 529 can help you decide …

financial advice & planning

Should You Have a Credit Card in College?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 22, 2023

Using a credit card in college has a lot of benefits, from everyday convenience to peace of mind in emergencies and most significant of all, the opportunity to build credit. So, should you have a credit card in college? You should consider getting a credit card in college if you’re sure you’ll use the card …