questions & answers

Should I Focus on One Scholarship Category or Several?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

Once you’ve found something that works, it can be hard doing it any other way. So when a student finds their talent, skill, or unique factor that can be used in their scholarship search, they might only search for those relevant opportunities. For example, if a student is on their school’s student council, they may …

scholarship search & applications

The Pros and Cons of Contest Scholarships

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Contest scholarships are unusual in that they are not based on a student’s GPA or their community service. Applicants are asked to submit one or more entry, such as a creative essay, art piece, short film, practical invention—the list is endless. Pros of Contest Scholarships Students can (sometimes) submit multiple entries, increasing their chances of …

student loans

Can Student Loans Be Used For Living Expenses?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025

The short answer is yes, you can use student loans for living expenses. Student loans aren’t meant to cover only tuition and textbooks. They are intended to make it easier for students to get the basic necessities so they can focus on their education instead of worrying about how they’re going to pay for college. …

student loans

3 Common Myths Surrounding Student Loan Consolidation

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Student loan consolidation allows you to combine multiple federal student loans into one loan so that you make only one payment every month instead of multiple payments. This option offers several benefits to borrowers. Unfortunately, the myths surrounding student loan consolidation cause a lot of confusion resulting in many students making the wrong decision, which …

student loans

8 things NOT to do with your student loan money

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 6, 2026

Key takeaways Spending leftover student loan money on non-education related expenses violates the terms of your student loan. Purchases not permitted under student loan guidelines include vacations, vehicles, restaurant meals, home down payments, expensive electronics, clothing upgrades, and paying other debt. You may use your student loan money for any education-related expenses, including tuition and …

student loans

Student Loan Borrower Benefits: What are They?

By Liz SkogerboeLast updated on December 22, 2022

Have you looked into applying for loans to help you pay for college? Student Loan Options Loans can be a good option for many students—after they exhaust all scholarship, grant, and work study options, of course. In your research, you might have come across something called borrower benefits. Put simply, these could be considered small …

financial advice & planning

Pros and Cons of a 529 Savings Plan

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

529 plans are a type of tax-advantaged, custodial savings plan designed to help families nationwide cover education-related costs. They are also known as qualified tuition programs or Section 529 plans. Millions of families across America enroll in this plan for the many benefits it offers. However, as with any type of financial plan, it has …

student loans

What Does it Mean to Consolidate Your Student Loan?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025

Consolidating student loans involves combining multiple federal student loans into one loan with one monthly payment amount and one due date. Consolidation is applicable only to federal student loans. The only way to combine private student loans is by refinancing. Student loan consolidation offers several benefits but there are also a few downsides that you …

scholarships

5 Scholarships for Gamers

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 14, 2025

Key takeaways There are scholarships for students who love gaming, esports, and animation. Some scholarships are made to help women, underrepresented students, or those who need financial support. Deadlines are different for each scholarship, so it’s important to apply early. Do you love gaming and dream of turning that passion into a career? From design …

student loans

Student Loan Season Is Coming Up: Here’s What You Should Be Doing

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 25, 2025

Whether you’re a student or a parent, it’s time to start finding the right loans for college. Student loan season usually lasts during the spring and summer of every year. However, there’s a lot of information out there, so where do you start? Here are some tips on what to do to find the right …