questions & answers

How To Go to College Debt Free (Or with Less Debt)

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 15, 2023

No one wants to graduate college under a mountain of student loan debt that needs to be repaid. And as a result, some students are actually forgoing the college experience all together in order to save their future finances. While sometimes it is unavoidable if you want to go to a particular college or study a …

financial advice & planning

10 Best Student Checking Accounts

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 26, 2025

Student checking accounts come with a number of features and perks that make it easier for college students to manage their money and build a banking history. These accounts typically have built-in automation tools that help you develop better saving habits, pay bills on time, and avoid overdrafts. You’ll also get access to a debit …

financial aid

States that Offer Programs for Free or Reduced Cost Community College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 21, 2025

Key Takeaways: Most states have free community college programs or offer scholarships that reduce the cost. Eligibility requirements and award amounts vary depending on the program, student’s financial need, and other factors. If you don’t qualify for your state’s tuition waivers or grants, complete the FAFSA and apply for scholarships. Did you know that several …

financial aid, student loans

Fresh Start Program: What Students Need to Know

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 30, 2023

The Fresh Start program is a one-time, temporary program introduced by the U.S. Department of Education. The goal is to offer relief for borrowers with defaulted federal student loans after forbearance ends in October 2023. Students who meet certain criteria can sign up for Fresh Start to receive the program’s benefits. This includes restored access …

financial aid

State Grants for Oklahoma for College Students

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 15, 2023

For students planning to go to college in Oklahoma, the state has several different grants and scholarship programs to help make school more affordable. Keep reading to learn more about Oklahoma’s Promise, military scholarships, academic scholarships, and others. Oklahoma State Grants for College Students 1. Oklahoma’s Promise Oklahoma’s Promise is a program dedicated to helping …

financial aid

State Grants for Ohio College Students

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 15, 2023

The state of Ohio has several state grants and financial aid programs available to students who decide to attend college in the state. Below, we’ve detailed some of these awards, how you can apply, and where you can find further information on financial aid programs and attending college in Ohio. Ohio State Grants 1. Choose …

questions & answers

What happens to financial aid if you drop a class?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 8, 2025

Key takeaways Dropping a class could affect your financial aid package if you no longer meet enrollment status requirements. Withdrawing from a class rarely affects financial aid as long as you are completing more than ⅔ of your enrolled courses. If you lose financial aid, reach out to your school’s financial aid department to discuss …

financial advice & planning

Your Guide to Health Insurance for College Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 4, 2025

Which college will you choose? How will you decorate your dorm room? Do you live with a pre-selected roommate or a friend? Should you get an apartment or live on campus? There are so many things for students to consider when preparing to go to college… including health insurance.  That’s right, setting up your own …

financial aid

State Grants for North Dakota

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 7, 2023

Are you thinking about staying in your home state of North Dakota and attending college? The state offers a few different financial aid programs to help its students afford the cost of higher education. We outlined a few of them below, plus provided links to additional resources and information about these programs. North Dakota State …

financial advice & planning

7 Smart Ways to Use Your Graduation Money

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025

You’ve graduated – Congratulations! Graduation day marks a major milestone in your journey toward adulthood. For the first time in your life, you’ll be truly independent and responsible for making your own decisions, personal and financial. The big question now is – what are you going to do with your college graduation money?  On graduating, …