student loans

6 Ways parents can help with student loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on October 26, 2026

Key takeaways The average federal student loan debt is nearly $40,000 – if you include private student loans, it could be as high as $42,673 per borrower. Parents can help with student loans by taking out Direct PLUS Loans, matching payments, or cosigning. Discussing good financial decisions, offering rent-free accommodations, and even just cooking meals …

questions & answers

Loud Budgeting – The Opposite of Quiet Luxury

By College Raptor StaffPublished on July 15, 2024

Even if you’ve never heard the viral term, you may already know about loud budgeting. This budgeting trend simply means that people are very open with what they have and may set certain boundaries with friends and families to prioritize their money. The idea of loud budgeting is to empower more people to be comfortable …

financial aid

Financial Aid Options for International Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 15, 2024

Some international students may be able to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), but most international students are not eligible for federal student financial aid within the United States. However, there are exceptions where non-citizens can complete the FAFSA.  Here’s what you need to know about your financial aid options if you’re …

scholarships

Scholarships with August Deadlines

By College Raptor StaffPublished on July 5, 2024

As summer draws to a close, don’t let scholarship opportunities slip away with it! While you can find and apply for scholarships all year round why not apply for some some before the school year ramps up? To make the search easier, we’ve compiled a list of scholarships with August deadlines. 8 Scholarships with August …

scholarships

Scholarships with July Deadlines

By College Raptor StaffPublished on June 4, 2024

School’s out and you should absolutely be soaking up the sun and enjoying summer days off. But if you have some extra time, now is the perfect time to apply for scholarships! We’ve rounded up seven scholarships with July deadlines to help you get started. 7 Scholarships with July Submission Deadlines 1. SHARON STEPHENS BREHM …

scholarship search & applications, scholarships

Scholarships with June Deadlines

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 17, 2024

We all know college expenses can add up quickly. To help relieve some of the financial burden, consider applying for scholarships—after all, it’s free money to put towards your college expenses and you can apply and win scholarships year round. Here’s a list of 8 scholarships with deadlines in June to get you started! 8 …

scholarships

Scholarships with May Deadlines

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 17, 2024

As you know, you can apply for scholarships year-round. Take some stress off your plate this summer and start applying for scholarships now. Check out this list we’ve compiled of nine scholarships with May deadlines. 9 Scholarships with May Deadlines As you’re reviewing this list of scholarships, don’t forget these quick tips: Don’t skip scholarships …

financial aid

What Is a College Grant?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 17, 2024

A grant is a form of gift aid awarded to college students that, in most cases, does not have to be paid back. Grants can be awarded based on merit or demonstrated financial need and award amounts are program specific. The federal government, state governments, private organizations, and schools can all offer grants for college. …

financial advice & planning

How To Pay For College If You Haven’t Started Saving Yet

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 25, 2025

Paying for college with no savings is still possible when you consider cutting back your discretionary costs, working part time, taking classes at community college and considering more affordable college options. Several financial aid resources are available for college students including FAFSA, state grants, and scholarship programs. Private student loans are an option to help …

financial aid

State Grants for Virginia College Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 13, 2024

Are you thinking about staying in your home state of Virginia to attend college? The state, through the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, has several college grants available to its residents and students to make college more affordable. Here’s what you need to know. Virginia State Grants 1. Virginia Commonwealth Award  For undergraduate …