myths

Myth: There Are Many Unclaimed College Scholarships Every Year

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

We’ve all heard it. This idea that there are billions of dollars that are hiding away somewhere for college education. While there are indeed billions of dollars awarded every year, the myth of the unclaimed scholarship money is just that—a myth. Though there is some debate, this myth is thought to have its origins in …

myths

Myth: I Can’t Apply for Scholarships During Second Semester

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Did you think scholarships were only for high school students and incoming freshman? Not quite! There are actually quite a few scholarships you can apply to while you’re in college. Some of the scholarships listed below have due dates in January, designed to be applied for right during the start of your second semester of …

myths

Myth: Public College is WAY more affordable than a Private College

By Jasmine BarnesLast updated on March 3, 2025

Cost is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a college. It could mean the difference between graduating with a mountain of student debt, or very little (or none) at all. But which is more affordable: public college vs private college? The answer isn’t as clear cut as many believe! Public vs …

myths

Myth: I Should Only Apply to Full-Ride Scholarships

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

When applying to colleges, it is important to pursue all possible avenues that could give you or your family a financial break. The costs of college tuition have been rising steadily over the past decade or so. The average cost of an in-state public school over four years, which is widely considered (rightfully) to be …

myths

6 Student Loan Myths

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on March 24, 2025

Dealing with student loans can be overwhelming. And the many loan myths surrounding student loans only add to the stress and overwhelm. A lot of the fear about student loans stems from misconceptions that surround them. As a rule, when in doubt, always call your student loan servicer and ask. They are the most reliable …

myths

College Myth: Only Students with a 4.0 GPA Get Scholarships

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

There is such a heavy emphasis placed on good grades and a high GPA–and for good reason, of course. GPAs can determine anything from college admissions to selective schools to qualify for scholarships or grants. What happens if you’ve got a few B’s thrown in there with the other A’s? Or what if you have …

myths

College Myth: Only Graduating High School Seniors Can Apply for Scholarships

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

Each year, about $46 billion of scholarships and grants are awarded by schools and the federal government. An additional $3.3 billion is awarded by private sources. There is a lot of aid out there, but it isn’t all awarded to just the graduating senior. Myth: only high school seniors can apply for scholarships. A common …

myths

College Myth: Students Shouldn’t Have Their Own Credit Card in College

By Kali SlaymakerLast updated on December 22, 2022

A common worry among most college-bound students and families is their finances. The cost of college has risen dramatically in the past years and hunting for scholarships and deciphering financial aid can be tough. Then there are the smaller scale questions of how they actually pay for their everyday purchases. Will their home banking still …

myths

5 Myths About College Costs & Financial Aid Every Parent Needs to Know

By Tyler HakesLast updated on February 25, 2025

When it comes to the cost of college, there are a lot of myths out there. Many times, these myths can scare students and families away from colleges that might have been very affordable, or even cost that family thousands of dollars in lost financial aid opportunities. Understanding how both the cost of college and financial …

myths

College Myth: Most Colleges Are Way Out of My Price Range

By Olivia PittmanLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you’ve just started your college search, you may be shocked to discover that the cost of attendance at your dream school is tens of thousands of dollars per year outside of your price range. How does anyone afford college at this price? Very few students pay the sticker price to attend college Nearly all …