questions & answers

What is the Federal TRIO Program?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Out of all the programs available to students, one you may not have heard of is the Federal TRIO Program. Here’s a quick rundown on what this service entails: What Is It? The Federal TRIO Program is actually made up of eight individual programs, each set up to identify, assist, and provide services to those …

student loans

A Step By Step Guide: How to Take Out Student Loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 25, 2025

Learning how to take out student loans is an important skill in the college application process. Most families in America can’t afford to pay for their kid’s college tuition using their personal finances alone. After exhausting scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, students turn to loans to pay for college. When you start looking for student loans, …

questions & answers

What is a College Credit Union?

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

I’m sure that, at this point, you know all the stereotypes of the college financial experience. Scrimping and saving, eating ramen three times a day, and generally having no extra cash to your name. While these events are a reality for many students, there are institutions available to make your life at university a bit …

scholarship search & applications

Using Social Media to Discover Scholarships

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

As we move further into the digital age, social media is becoming a more central aspect of our lives. According to recent statistics, our social media use is as much of a routine as brushing our teeth; 75% of Facebook users, 51% of Instagram users and 42% of Twitter users reported that they use each …

scholarships

5 Exciting Scholarship Contests

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

It’s amazing how many ways you can turn your passions and hobbies into scholarship money for college. Here are five exciting scholarship contests! Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Award: Varies Deadline: TBD for 2021 (Opens September 2020) The Scholastic Art & Writing competition covers a large variety of creative works. In fact, students can compete …

questions & answers

What is Estimated Family Contribution (EFC)?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The Estimated Family Contribution or EFC is a calculated measure of your family’s financial strength. It is an index number that colleges use to determine your eligibility for different need-based financial aid programs. What EFC is NOT: Your EFC is not an indication of the amount you or your family are liable to pay towards …

questions & answers

How Is EFC Calculated Exactly?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

EFC (click here to check out more acronyms) or Estimated Family Contribution is calculated using the information that you provide on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA and CSS) application. The calculation is done according to a formula established by the U. S. Department of Education’s Federal Methodology Calculation. It takes into account the …

student loans

What Does Forbearance Mean?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 24, 2025

Forbearance is a special type of program that gives students temporary relief from making their loan payments. This is a great alternative for students if money is tight and they cannot afford to make their scheduled loan payments. Unlike when you defer your student loans, where the outstanding payment does not accrue any interest, under forbearance …

student loans

Are You Eligible for Student Loan Forgiveness?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025

According to the National Student Loan Data System for Students, around 25% of the American workforce may be eligible for forgiveness programs. However many people lose out of the benefits of student loan forgiveness simply because they presume they are not eligible. Take the time to learn about how student loan forgiveness works and also …

scholarship search & applications

Can Parents Apply for Scholarships for Their Child? Here’s How You Can Help.

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 20, 2023

Parents should not apply for scholarships on behalf of their child. However, you can assist them in the process by: Helping them hone their time management skills. Brainstorming essay topics together. Proofreading their applications and essays. Helping students search for scholarships. Completing FAFSA While parents can technically apply for scholarships for their children, it’s recommended …