student loans

Things That Might Prevent You From Qualifying For a Private Student Loan

By Morgan StaubLast updated on March 5, 2025

Over one million college students receive a student loan from a private source each year. There is a litany of individual reasons that these students prefer private loans to the US Government’s federal loan program (FAFSA). However, there is one common thread. Private loans, compared to FAFSA, are often seen as easier to obtain. As …

student loans

Pros and Cons of Auto-Debiting Loans

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

These days, a majority of college students find themselves having to take loans out to assist in their tuition payments. Most of these loans are to be completed in installments over a long period of time after graduation. If you’re the type of person, like yours truly, that finds paying bills to be stressful or …

financial aid

Can You Appeal An Offer Letter For More Aid?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The short answer is yes, you can appeal an offer letter. You can appeal an offer letter. What many students do not realize is that a financial aid offer letter is not a final decision. It is, in fact, an offer that is made by the prospective college. You are under no obligation to accept …

student loans

Student Loan Default Vs. Student Loan Delinquency

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

When you are behind on your student loan payments, it is considered a delinquency. It does not take long for a loan delinquency to occur. If you miss a due date payment, the very next day the loan is considered to be delinquent. The loan goes into default if you are delinquent for a certain …

financial aid

What Financial Aid Can You Earn From The State Government?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 28, 2023

Almost all students know to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA), but many actually forget to check if their state government offers any financial aid. Here are some things you’ll need to know before you start the search. Your Options Depend on Your State Almost every state education department offers grants, …

student loans

Making Sense Of The Different Federal Student Loan Repayment Programs

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Federal student loans should be your first option when you are looking for financial assistance to fund your college education. But before you even apply for any loan, it is a good idea to understand what the different repayment programs available. This will help you make smart choices that can reduce your monthly student loan …

financial aid

Understanding What Your Financial Aid Offer Letter Is Really Saying

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Financial aid offer letters often confuse students and their parents, with unfamiliar terms mentioned in the letter. Unfortunately, misunderstanding some of the key terms can result in making the wrong decisions. That can lead to a long-term impact on their finances. Understanding what your financial aid offer letter is really important. Here are a few …

scholarship search & applications

Scholarship Essay Must-Haves

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 1, 2023

Nothing beats getting a scholarship when you are looking for financial assistance to fund your college education. With a scholarship, you don’t have to worry about repayments or interest rates, or default. Scholarship awards are free and can make it so much easier to pay for college. Of course, you will have to put in …

student loans

Should You Consolidate Your Student Loans?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Do you have to send in payments to more than one lending institution to repay your student loans? Do you have a huge monthly payment that you are scrambling to scrape up each month? If any of the two scenarios above apply to you, then loan consolidation may be the right choice for you. Take …

student loans

Pros and Cons of Income-Driven Repayment Plans for Student Loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 9, 2025

What we’ll cover: What is an income driven repayment plan? The four types of income driving repayment plans. What are some advantages and disadvantages of income driven repayment plans? Is an income driven repayment plan good for me? You might have heard the term “income driven repayment plan” before, but do you know what it …