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Measuring Academic Fit: Reach, Match and Safety Schools
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Academic fit is a measure of the likelihood of a student being admitted to a college, based on the student’s academic performance. The simplest method of measuring academic fit is to compare the student’s high school grade point average (GPA) and college admissions test scores with the typical range for students enrolled at the college. The college’s admissions test scores may be found on College Navigator and College Scorecard. For example, the student’s SAT or ACT scores might be compared with the performance of the middle half of the test score distribution for the college’s freshman class.
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This leads to the following definitions of reach, match and safety schools:
- A reach school is a college or university where the student’s academic performance falls short of the academic performance of the school’s typical freshman class. A student is unlikely to be admitted to a reach school. A reach school is a college where the student’s test scores are below the 25th percentile of test scores for students admitted by the college.
- A match school is a college or university where the student’s academic performance falls within the range of academic performance of the school’s typical freshman class. (Match schools were previously called “target” schools.) A student has a good chance of being admitted by a match school. A match school is a college where the student’s test scores are between the 25th and 75th percentiles of test scores for students admitted by the college.
- A safety school is a college or university where the student’s academic performance falls above the range of academic performance of the school’s typical freshman class. A student is likely to be admitted to a safety school. A safety school is a college where the student’s test scores are above the 75th percentile of test scores for students admitted by the college.
These definitions are illustrated by this graphic:
Students should apply to several match and safety schools to increase the student’s chances of getting in to at least one college. This should include at least one in-state public college.
A financial aid safety school is a college that will not only admit the student, but where the student could afford to enroll even if he or she gets no financial aid. Use each college’s net price calculator to determine how much gift aid the student might receive at the college, as well as the college’s net price.
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You don’t have to be an incoming or current college student to start the search for scholarships. Check out this list of college scholarships for kids starting at five years old!
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Popular scholarships can be very generous. Students with the qualifications should apply for these awards knowing that the competition will be significant.
By Edvisors Network
The winners of the most respected scholarships are students with extraordinary achievements and capabilities. Learn more about these prestigious awards.
Learn more about scholarships for international students hoping to study in the United States and scholarships for American students studying abroad.
Learn the most effective methods of increasing a student’s chances of winning a private scholarship.
By Mollie Allen
A standout essay can make the difference in winning a scholarship. Find out how to choose the right essay topic, write your essay and proofread the text.
By Edvisors Network
Scholarship scams try to get students to pay money instead of giving them money. Never invest more than a postage stamp to get information about scholarships or to apply for scholarships. If you have to give money to get money, it’s probably a scam.
Starting from 1643, this historical timeline tracks the important landmarks related to public and private scholarship programs.
By Edvisors Network
Less-selective colleges use academic scholarships to recruit academically talented students. Check out this resource guide for academic scholarships.
By Edvisors Network
A number of public and private organizations offer college scholarships to students who have been affected by cancer. Check out this resource list.
By Edvisors Network
Check out this list of scholarships for creating videos.
Most free scholarship matching services also include graduate fellowships in their award databases. The scholarship search tools will match students with fellowships instead of scholarships based on the student’s academic year in school.
By Edvisors Network
When a student wins a private scholarship, the college financial aid office must reduce the student’s need-based financial aid package. However, many colleges will reduce the student’s debt and work burden first, thereby reducing the net price. Others reduce grants first, leaving the student with no net financial gain from winning the scholarship.
By Edvisors Network
Check out this list of the most generous and prestigious national scholarships for female college students.
By Edvisors Network
Less-competitive scholarships are easier to win because fewer students apply.
By Edvisors Network
Some scholarships offer significant financial awards to students who meet highly specialized criteria. Learn more about these generous scholarships.
By Edvisors Network
More than $1 billion in athletic scholarships are awarded each year to less than 1% of undergraduate students. Learn more about these specialized awards.
By Edvisors Network
Find out how the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) can help students qualify for a variety of scholarship programs, including the prestigious National Merit Scholarship.
Learn more about scholarships for U.S. students studying abroad.
By Edvisors Network
Learn more about scholarships for international students hoping to study in the United States.
By Edvisors Network
Under the Yellow Ribbon program, participating colleges agree to provide part of the difference between a servicemember’s Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits and the college’s actual tuition and fees. The Veterans Administration (VA) matches the college’s contribution.
Tuition Assistance pays for tuition and required fees for active-duty enlisted servicemembers to takes classes at colleges and universities during their off-duty time. Tuition Assistance may sometimes be combined with other GI Bill benefits.
College students who are interested in becoming a commissioned officer of the U.S. Armed Forces can obtain scholarships through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) to help them pay for school. They take military science courses in addition to the courses required by their academic major, drill throughout the academic year and train full-time during the summer.
Military educational assistance programs include REAP, VEAP and DEA. They provide up to 36 months of educational benefits to members of the Reserves and National Guard, up to 36 months of educational benefits to veterans and up to 45 months of educational benefits to dependents of veterans who died or were totally and permanently disabled while on active duty or because of a service-related condition.
Military service academies, such as the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York, provide a high-quality college education leading to a Bachelor’s degree. Admission requires a letter of recommendation from a member of Congress. Graduates are commissioned as officers in the associated branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Military families are often forced to relocate frequently. This can interfere with their obtaining a college education. The Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges and the Community College of the Air Force help members of the military and their families obtain college degrees despite their frequent relocations.
College scholarships are available from several private organizations to help veterans and their dependents pay for a college education.
The Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act of 2003 provides financial and administrative relief for active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces as well as people who are affected by a disaster area, war, military operation or national emergency. The relief includes waivers of several requirements relating to federal student financial aid.
One way to offset the costs associated with college is to find employers with tuition assistance or tuition reimbursement programs. Here’s a few things to consider.
College students who file the FAFSA may be awarded Federal Work-Study as part of a financial aid package. Find out how to qualify, the types of jobs typically available and how students are paid.
By Edvisors Network
Many states offer scholarships and grants to help students pay for college. This state-by-state list provides links to state-administered programs.
By Edvisors Network
Fellowships are like scholarships, but are used to pay for graduate school instead of undergraduate school. Many fellowships are available for graduate students in science, mathematics, engineering, and the arts and humanities. There are also several prestigious fellowships for international study.
By Edvisors Network
There are many advantages and disadvantages to working on-campus and off-campus. On-campus jobs are conveniently located and provide tuition assistance and academic benefits, but may offer lower wages than off-campus jobs. Rules concerning off-campus jobs may be less restrictive. But off-campus jobs may be less accommodating concerning the student’s academic schedule and may involve more time commuting to and from school.
By Elaine Rubin
Students can earn an education award worth as much as the maximum Federal Pell Grant for a year of full-time volunteer service with the AmeriCorps program. The education award may be used to pay for school or to repay federal student loans.
By Elaine Rubin
Review the pros and cons of Parent PLUS Loans to private student loans. Comparison chart included.
Compare your student loan options easily with our comparison tables. Understand the benefits of Direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans, PLUS loans, and private student loans.
By Edvisors Network
Free scholarships for college students can make college dreams come true. Check out Edvisors list of free scholarships and tools for making your scholarship search easier!
By Elaine Rubin
Check out this list of scholarships for students who are the first in their family to go to college.
By Anita Thomas
A tuition payment plan or installment plan splits your bill into equal payments, usually for a small fee. Find out if a tuition payment plan is right for you.
By Tre Norman
Several lenders offer private loans specifically for the parents of college students. Learn more about the costs and benefits of Private Parent Loans.
By Mollie Allen
Medical and residency loans help post-graduate medical students pay for board exam fees and costs associated with residency and relocation. Find competitive loans from top lenders.
By Tre Norman
Several lenders offer private loans specifically for the parents of college students. Learn more about the costs and benefits of Private Parent Loans.
By Elaine Rubin
12/07/2021
Understanding how assets are assessed when filling out the FAFSA and minimizing their impact.
By Penny Redlin
12/03/2021
Balance transfer credit cards enable you to reduce the amount of interest you owe by simply switching to a new card. If you have accumulated a significant amount of debt on your current credit card, there may be a better deal out there for you.
By Elaine Rubin
12/02/2021
Income Share Agreements (ISAs) provide students with money to pay for college in exchange for a percentage of their income after graduation. Learn about using ISAs to pay for college.
By Penny Redlin
12/02/2021
The decision to refinance federal student loans requires thoughtful consideration of all the pros and cons. What you decide to do ultimately depends on what best suits your needs.
By Penny Redlin
12/02/2021
Student loans are often necessary to help pay for college. Finding low interest student loans will help save money on the total cost of your education.
By Penny Redlin
12/02/2021
Unsecured credit cards are simply credit cards that do not require a security deposit. People with good to excellent credit are most likely to have an unsecured credit card.
By Tre Norman
12/02/2021
The number of credit cards you ought to have depends on your spending habits, confidence in managing multiple bills each month, and so much more. Read more to figure out if you might have too many credit cards or not enough.
FAFSA questions answered! Quick simple answers to the most common questions asked about the FAFSA.
By Penny Redlin
11/19/2021
Secured credit cards are an excellent way to establish or rebuild credit. Here are some of the best secured credit cards to consider if this is the right option for you.
By Penny Redlin
11/18/2021
A credit card with a 0% introductory APR can sometimes be the best option when making large purchases you plan to off quickly. We've assembled a list of some of the best introductory 0% APR credit cards to help you decide which one to choose.
By Penny Redlin
11/18/2021
If you’re considering signing up for a cash back credit card, you’ve probably noticed that the available field of cash back cards is pretty crowded. We've narrowed the list by sharing our picks for best cash back credit cards.
By Penny Redlin
11/18/2021
Looking for the best credit card for your needs? Shopping for credit cards can be overwhelming. We've made it easy for you by collecting the best credit cards to help you decide which one to apply for.
By Penny Redlin
11/18/2021
Secured credit cards are a good option for people looking to build or rebuild their credit. Learn what they are and how they work.
By Elaine Rubin
11/10/2021
Student loan forgiveness can be achieved but beware of student loan forgiveness program scams. Learn what red flags to watch out for.
By Elaine Rubin
11/10/2021
Nursing school can be costly but thankfully there are several programs to help with the cost, including some that will forgive all or part of your loans.
By Elaine Rubin
11/10/2021
Teachers may be able to have all or some of their student loans forgiven if they apply and are approved in select programs.
By Penny Redlin
11/08/2021
Student loan refinance can save money, lower your monthly payments, release a cosigner and more. Learn why you might want to consider refinancing your student loan.
By Tre Norman
10/25/2021
For most issuers, the earliest you can get a credit card on your own is at 18 years of age. However, if you are willing to become an authorized user, you could begin using a credit card and building credit history well before then.
By Penny Redlin
10/19/2021
Paying for college can be challenging. There are a number of resources to help by providing free money in the form of scholarships, grants or reimbursement.
By Penny Redlin
10/18/2021
Private Student loans can be refinanced to offer lower interest rates, different repayment terms, and other revisions to help manage student loan debt.
By Elaine Rubin
10/13/2021
Can you refinance a parent PLUS Loan? Yes! You can refinance for a lower interest rate, to consolidate loans, or to transfer a parent PLUS Loan to the student.
By Elaine Rubin
10/12/2021
Learn about Direct Loan Consolidation including which loans are eligible. Compare to private student loan consolidation as an alternative to find the best option for you.
For individuals with other SoFi financial accounts, the SoFi Credit Card can be a great investment. Free of a foreign transaction fee and annual fee, the credit card also comes with rewards and perks worth exploring.
For individuals with other SoFi financial accounts, the SoFi Credit Card can be a great investment. Free of a foreign transaction fee and annual fee, the credit card also comes with rewards and perks worth exploring.
By Elaine Rubin
10/01/2021
When filing the FAFSA you will need to provide certain financial information, including income and tax information. Dependent students will also need to provide financial information for one or both parents depending on household status.
By Elaine Rubin
10/01/2021
Understand how and when to file the FAFSA, and get answers to the most common questions students and parents encounter when applying for federal financial aid.
The Petal® 2 "Cash Back, No Fees" Visa® Credit Card is a quality card for individuals with no or fair credit history, and it also features rewards and no fees whatsoever.
The Petal® 2 "Cash Back, No Fees" Visa® Credit Card is a quality card for individuals with no or fair credit history, and it also features rewards and no fees whatsoever.
The Petal® 2 "Cash Back, No Fees" Visa® Credit Card is a quality card for individuals with no or fair credit history, and it also features rewards and no fees whatsoever.
By Penny Redlin
09/15/2021
The 10 Credit Unions in the U.S. These credit unions are among the largest in America with the highest asset’s and largest membership base.
By Penny Redlin
09/15/2021
Restructure your student loans by refinancing them. Refinancing your student loan with a credit union can offer you savings with reduced interest rates and fees.
By Penny Redlin
09/15/2021
Credit unions are financial institutions, like banks, except its members own the credit union. They are nonprofit entities that aim to serve their members rather than seeking to earn a profit.
By Penny Redlin
09/15/2021
Credit Unions differ from banks. Understanding the pros and cons of joining a credit union are important when deciding which financial institution to patronize.
By Penny Redlin
09/15/2021
The best credit unions for student loans. Learn which credit unions are best for borrowing money for college.
By Penny Redlin
09/15/2021
Credit Unions are an alternative to traditional banks with unique benefits for their members. Learn what a credit union is and how it’s different from a bank.
By Penny Redlin
08/13/2021
Credit Union Student Loans can be a smart move if you need more money after receiving other financial aid.
By Elaine Rubin
08/05/2021
Learn the pros and cons of Private student loans, including borrowing up to your school’s certified cost of attendance, and potentially lower interest rates than federal student loans.
Funding U offers undergraduate no-cosigner student loans for students attending not-for-profit, accredited, eligible four-year colleges within select states of the United States.
By Elaine Rubin
06/09/2021
Thrivent Credit Union offers in-school and refinance student loans. Learn more about their offerings including pros and cons of their loans and how Thrivent gives back.
By Elaine Rubin
06/09/2021
Bank of America no longer offers student loans. Learn what you can do with your existing Bank of America student loans, and find other lenders to help you pay for school or refinance your loans.
Grants are gift-aid, money that does not need to be repaid. There are a variety of federal grants for college students, such as the Pell Grant, as well as state and institutional grants that come directly from your school.
By Mollie Allen
05/25/2021
Credible is an online marketplace offering access to multiple student loan lenders. Learn how Credible works and the pros and cons of their service.
ELFI offers private student loans as well as student loan refinancing for both parents and students. Learn more about their products, customer service, and how ELFI gives back.
Iowa Student Loan corporation offers a variety of student loan products. Learn more about their offerings, customer service, and how they give back to the community.
Learn more about refinancing student loans through PenFed Credit Union, including how to refinance, customer service, how PedFed gives back to the community and more.
Learn more about private student loan lender CommonBond, their loan products, customer service, and how they give back.
By Tre Norman
05/05/2021
One of the benefits of community college is its affordability. Here are 8 different ways you can pay for community college, 6 of which do not require student loans.
Most student loans have a six-month grace period. During this time, you do not need to make payments on your loans, however interest will still accrue.
The best student loan refinance company for you is the one that offers terms that align with your goals. Current interest rates are as low as 1.74%. Compare student loan refinancing lenders.
By Elaine Rubin
04/20/2021
Public Service Loan Forgiveness is an option to Parent PLUS Loan borrowers who consolidate their student loans with a Direct Consolidation Loan. Learn how to qualify for this program.
By Tre Norman
04/02/2021
There are federal and private student loans available for nursing school. Once you’ve exhausted federal student loans, private student loans may help you fill the funding gap. Learn more about your federal and private student loans options.
By Elaine Rubin
04/02/2021
Interest on a student loan is the cost you pay for borrowing money. Federal and private student loans have different interest rates and formulas for calculating interest.
By Anita Thomas
04/01/2021
When shopping for student loans, it's helpful to know the average student loan interest rate of private and federal student loans.
By Hannah Horton
03/31/2021
Learn more about PNC student loan products, including in school and refinancing loans.
By Mollie Allen
03/18/2021
Learn the variety of ways students and parents can pay for college both with and without student loans.
By Tre Norman
03/18/2021
Having a student loan cosigner is a great way to get approved for a private student loan and qualify for a lower interest rate. A cosigner can be any responsible adult who fits the criteria. Look for a lender that offers cosigner release as a way to relieve your cosigner of their responsibility once you’ve made a series of on-time payments.
By Mollie Allen
03/17/2021
There are many things you can do to pay off your student loans faster. Make more than the minimum payment, enroll in automatic payments, make bi-weekly payments and twelve other strategies.
By Mollie Allen
03/16/2021
Why should you apply for a bar loan? Bar exam and bar prep loans cover the costs of exam prep, the bar exam itself, and living expenses while you are preparing to take the bar.
By Mollie Allen
03/04/2021
Find current private student loan interest rates and compare to federal student loan interest rates to find the loan that is right for you.
By Mollie Allen
02/23/2021
Graduate students can borrow federal and private student loans. Federal student loans include Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS Loans. Private student loans are also available and may offer more competitive rates.
By Mollie Allen
02/22/2021
First, start by filing the FAFSA to apply for federal student loans. There are thousands of scholarships and grants available for graduate students as well.
By Anita Thomas
02/21/2021
Nelnet Bank offers a variety of student loan products including in school and refinancing options.
By Penny Redlin
02/17/2021
Students who do not have a cosigner are still eligible for student loans. Options include federal student loans, as well as some private lenders if you qualify. Learn more.
By Elaine Rubin
02/16/2021
Scholarships, grants and federal student loans are the best place to start when paying for pharmacy school. Private student loans are also an option and offer competitive interest rates.
By Elaine Rubin
02/15/2021
Scholarships, grants, federal and private student loans are all available to help pay for law school.
By Elaine Rubin
02/08/2021
Medical students can find scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships to help pay for school. Savings may be an option, but loans are often needed. Start with federal student loans then look for competitive private loans.
There are two main types of student loans for college. Federal student loans offered by the federal government, and private student loans. Get straight answers on how they work and which one may be best for you.
By Mollie Allen
01/07/2021
There are many ways to find scholarship opportunities if you know where to look. Here are some tips on how to get started.
By Anita Thomas
01/07/2021
Health professions student loans are need-based, government loans that come with service requirements and loan limits. There are four kinds of health professions loans.
By Anita Thomas
01/06/2021
SoFi offers a variety of student loan products with an all online application and no fees. Find out more about SoFi student loans and how SoFi gives back.
By Elaine Rubin
12/09/2020
Laurel Road offers in-school and refinance student loans. Laurel Road offers multiple student loan products to choose from and an online application process.
By Anita Thomas
12/02/2020
Earnest provides a wide variety of loans including undergraduate, graduate, medical and law school. Learn more about Earnest, their products, and their flexible repayment terms.
By Edvisors Network
11/10/2020
With Splash Financial student loan refinancing, you can get prequalified and find your rate without affecting your credit score.
By Edvisors Network
11/10/2020
Citizens Bank offers in school private student loans as well as student loan refinancing. Learn more about their products and benefits.
By Elaine Rubin
11/04/2020
Federal student loan interest rates are as low as 3.73%, and private loans start around 0.99%. But what does it really cost to borrow? Origination fees and other factors make a big difference on federal and private student loans.
By Elaine Rubin
10/01/2020
If the FAFSA determines you are a dependent undergraduate student, you will need to provide one or both of your parent(s)’ information on the FAFSA.
By Elaine Rubin
10/01/2020
When you file the FAFSA you will either file as a dependent or independent student. Here's how to figure out your dependency status when it comes to filing the FAFSA.
By Elaine Rubin
10/01/2020
If you did not receive enough financial aid, you can file an appeal. An appeal allows you to request an increase in financial aid. To file an appeal, you will first need to contact the financial aid office for your school.
By Elaine Rubin
10/01/2020
Financial aid is money in the form of loans, scholarships, and grants that can help you pay for college. The most important action you can take when applying for financial aid is to file the FAFSA.
By Anita Thomas
08/28/2020
For the 2020-2021 academic school year, Well Fargo is only extending student loans to existing borrowers. Learn more about their student loan program.
By Anita Thomas
08/04/2020
Learn more about private student loan lender, Ascent, including their product offerings and how they give back to the community.
By Anita Thomas
07/17/2020
Learn more about College Ave and their undergraduate, graduate, and parent student loan options.
By Anita Thomas
07/17/2020
Discover offers a wide variety of student loan products to help you fill the funding gap, including undergraduate, graduate, parent, and refi loans.
By Anita Thomas
07/16/2020
Sallie Mae is the leading bank in education finance. Learn more about their wide variety of student loan offerings and how to apply online in just minutes.
By Elaine Rubin
07/08/2020
The federal student loan program offers a variety of options. It can seem overwhelming, and tricky to navigate, but it doesn't have to be. Learn more about your options and compare the loans to find out which one is right for you.
By Elaine Rubin
06/17/2020
There are several deadlines that may be applicable to FAFSA filers in order to get the most possible aid. These deadlines include, federal, state, and school deadlines. The most important deadline is the one with the earliest date.
By Elaine Rubin
06/16/2020
Compare the best private student loans. Learn about top private lenders who will offer you competitive rates and benefits and how you can easily apply online in minutes.
By Mollie Allen
06/09/2020
Colleges and lenders have programs in place to help you make ends meet when you need it most. Learn more about emergency help, including federal, state, institutional and private student loan options.
By Elaine Rubin
05/29/2020
Get your federal undergraduate student loan questions answered with our complete guide!
By Mollie Allen
03/18/2020
A list of scholarships for students on the autism spectrum.
By Elaine Rubin
02/19/2020
Learn how who is eligible to borrow a Parent PLUS Loan, what to consider, and how to apply.
By Elaine Rubin
02/19/2020
Learn how who is eligible to borrow a Parent PLUS Loan, what to consider, and how to apply.
By Edvisors Network
09/30/2019
Comparing student loan options for can be difficult. This chart will help you understand the differences between private student loans and PLUS Loans, including options for parents.
By Elaine Rubin
07/01/2019
Get the details on the Direct Subsidized Loan program, including eligibility, interest rates and how to apply.
By Elaine Rubin
07/01/2019
Interest rates on Direct Loans are fixed. Undergraduates receive lower interest rates than graduate students. Find current interest rates and fees for Direct Loans.
By Elaine Rubin
07/01/2019
Direct Unsubsidized Loans are federal student loans available to undergraduate and graduate students. Learn more about eligibility, interest rates, and how to apply.
By Tre Norman
05/22/2019
International students have limited U.S. loan options when it comes to borrowing to pay for college. There are lenders that work with international students, particularly if they have an eligible cosigner.
By Mollie Allen
01/02/2019
Planning on earning an MBA? Get to know your federal and private student loan options for covering the cost of business school, including who is eligible, and how much you can borrow.
By Edvisors Network
08/21/2018
Paying for college without financial aid is difficult, but it’s not impossible. Here are 5 ways to pay for college without student loans or financial aid.
By Rebecca Holley
06/18/2018
Working while in college has a lot of benefits beyond making money. Having a job in college can help you do better in school and beyond. Here’s how!
By Edvisors Network
06/19/2017
Are you a Texas resident or an out-of-state student attending a school in Texas? Discover student loan options specifically for students in Texas.
By Edvisors Network
06/19/2017
Credit is a big factor in getting approved for a private loan for college. Learn how banks judge your credit and how this affects your loan options.
By Edvisors Network
06/08/2017
Learn which student loans do not require a credit check, and what you need to know to qualify for credit-based student loans.
By Edvisors Network
05/22/2017
Have you heard a lot about private student loans? We're busting 7 common myths with expert advice.
By Rebecca Holley
05/16/2017
Everyone knows building credit is important, but knowing how to do it isn’t always straightforward. Here are some simple strategies on how to start building credit in college.
On average, the wage premium for college graduates exceeds the direct and indirect costs of a college education. Average income increases and unemployment rates decrease with higher educational attainment. So long as debt is kept in sync with annual income after graduation, the college graduate should be able to repay his or her student loans in a reasonable period of time.
What are the ten highest- and ten lowest-paying college majors for Bachelor’s degree recipients? Analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data reveals the facts.
By Elaine Rubin
There are several tools that students and parents can use to compare outcomes at individual colleges, including graduation rates, income after graduation, average student loan debt and unemployment rates.
Nearly 100 colleges claim to have a need-blind admissions policy, which maintains that a family’s finances are not considered in the decision to admit or deny a student. If not, the college is considered need-sensitive or need-aware. Find out which colleges have need-blind policies.
When applying to colleges, it’s important to consider academic fit. Find out how to choose the right mix of reach, match and safety schools.
With prepaid tuition plans, one may buy a percentage of a year’s tuition that can be used to pay for college when the child enrolls years in the future.
With 529 savings plans, earnings are tax-deferred and distributions can be excluded from income. Learn more about qualifications, eligibility and restrictions.
Money saved in the parent’s name or a parent- or student-owned 529 college savings plan will have a minimal impact on the student’s eligibility for need-based financial aid.
By Edvisors Network
Paying tuition with a credit card might be tempting, but swiping can come with a catch. Look out for these drawbacks before pulling out that card!
By Edvisors Network
Find out why students and parents should or should not borrow from a 401k retirement plan to finance a college education.
Are you worried about graduating with a mountain of debt? We've got some great strategies to help you borrow responsibly while making your college dreams a reality.
By Edvisors Network
Many colleges and universities offer their own loans to help students and families pay for college. Institutional loan funds typically come from the college’s resources, alumni, corporations, foundations, donors and repayments from prior college loan borrowers.
By Elaine Rubin
Learn about IRS requirements for filing as Head of Household and how to avoid common errors that can affect a student’s college financial aid.
By Elaine Rubin
Most student loans have limits that affect how much you can borrow. Learn about the limits for Direct, Perkins, PLUS, consolidation, and private loans.
By Elaine Rubin
Review the pros and cons of Parent PLUS Loans to private student loans. Comparison chart included.
By Anita Thomas
Residency and relocation loans help dental school students and graduates pay for the cost of preparing for dental boards and relocating for a residency.
The U.S. Department of Education has significant power to force borrowers to repay defaulted federal education loans. Borrowers should learn about the potential consequences of default before taking out the loans.
The federal government can block the renewal of professional licenses for borrowers who default on federal student loans. Find out which licenses are affected.
In addition to paying late fees, the principal balance and accrued but unpaid interest, borrowers with defaulted federal education loans must pay “reasonable collection costs,” which include attorney’s fees, collection agency charges and court costs.
Borrowers can reduce the amount of money spent on student loan payments by following several strategies before taking out loans and during repayment.
By Edvisors Network
Check out this list of some of the most prestigious and generous scholarships for African-American college students.
By Edvisors Network
There are several high-quality free scholarship matching services. Students should sign up for at least two of the free scholarship databases to make sure they’ve found all eligible scholarships.
By Edvisors Network
Check out these scholarship resources for undocumented college students and learn more about eligibility for federal, state and college financial aid programs.
Check out this list of popular and generous college scholarships for students majoring in journalism or communications.
Check out this list of some of the most prestigious and generous scholarships available to minority college students.
By Edvisors Network
There are easy scholarships for college that require no essay, no interview, and aren’t dependent on GPA. Check out these college scholarships that are easy to apply for!
By Edvisors Network
You don’t have to be an incoming or current college student to start the search for scholarships. Check out this list of college scholarships for kids starting at five years old!
By Edvisors Network
Popular scholarships can be very generous. Students with the qualifications should apply for these awards knowing that the competition will be significant.
By Edvisors Network
The winners of the most respected scholarships are students with extraordinary achievements and capabilities. Learn more about these prestigious awards.
Learn more about scholarships for international students hoping to study in the United States and scholarships for American students studying abroad.
Learn the most effective methods of increasing a student’s chances of winning a private scholarship.
By Mollie Allen
A standout essay can make the difference in winning a scholarship. Find out how to choose the right essay topic, write your essay and proofread the text.
By Edvisors Network
Scholarship scams try to get students to pay money instead of giving them money. Never invest more than a postage stamp to get information about scholarships or to apply for scholarships. If you have to give money to get money, it’s probably a scam.
Starting from 1643, this historical timeline tracks the important landmarks related to public and private scholarship programs.
By Edvisors Network
Less-selective colleges use academic scholarships to recruit academically talented students. Check out this resource guide for academic scholarships.
By Edvisors Network
A number of public and private organizations offer college scholarships to students who have been affected by cancer. Check out this resource list.
By Edvisors Network
Check out this list of scholarships for creating videos.
Most free scholarship matching services also include graduate fellowships in their award databases. The scholarship search tools will match students with fellowships instead of scholarships based on the student’s academic year in school.
By Edvisors Network
When a student wins a private scholarship, the college financial aid office must reduce the student’s need-based financial aid package. However, many colleges will reduce the student’s debt and work burden first, thereby reducing the net price. Others reduce grants first, leaving the student with no net financial gain from winning the scholarship.
By Edvisors Network
Check out this list of the most generous and prestigious national scholarships for female college students.
By Edvisors Network
Less-competitive scholarships are easier to win because fewer students apply.
By Edvisors Network
Some scholarships offer significant financial awards to students who meet highly specialized criteria. Learn more about these generous scholarships.
By Edvisors Network
More than $1 billion in athletic scholarships are awarded each year to less than 1% of undergraduate students. Learn more about these specialized awards.
By Edvisors Network
Find out how the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) can help students qualify for a variety of scholarship programs, including the prestigious National Merit Scholarship.
Learn more about scholarships for U.S. students studying abroad.
By Edvisors Network
Learn more about scholarships for international students hoping to study in the United States.
By Edvisors Network
Under the Yellow Ribbon program, participating colleges agree to provide part of the difference between a servicemember’s Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits and the college’s actual tuition and fees. The Veterans Administration (VA) matches the college’s contribution.
Tuition Assistance pays for tuition and required fees for active-duty enlisted servicemembers to takes classes at colleges and universities during their off-duty time. Tuition Assistance may sometimes be combined with other GI Bill benefits.
College students who are interested in becoming a commissioned officer of the U.S. Armed Forces can obtain scholarships through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) to help them pay for school. They take military science courses in addition to the courses required by their academic major, drill throughout the academic year and train full-time during the summer.
Military educational assistance programs include REAP, VEAP and DEA. They provide up to 36 months of educational benefits to members of the Reserves and National Guard, up to 36 months of educational benefits to veterans and up to 45 months of educational benefits to dependents of veterans who died or were totally and permanently disabled while on active duty or because of a service-related condition.
Military service academies, such as the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, and the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York, provide a high-quality college education leading to a Bachelor’s degree. Admission requires a letter of recommendation from a member of Congress. Graduates are commissioned as officers in the associated branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Military families are often forced to relocate frequently. This can interfere with their obtaining a college education. The Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges and the Community College of the Air Force help members of the military and their families obtain college degrees despite their frequent relocations.
College scholarships are available from several private organizations to help veterans and their dependents pay for a college education.
The Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act of 2003 provides financial and administrative relief for active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces as well as people who are affected by a disaster area, war, military operation or national emergency. The relief includes waivers of several requirements relating to federal student financial aid.
One way to offset the costs associated with college is to find employers with tuition assistance or tuition reimbursement programs. Here’s a few things to consider.
College students who file the FAFSA may be awarded Federal Work-Study as part of a financial aid package. Find out how to qualify, the types of jobs typically available and how students are paid.
By Edvisors Network
Many states offer scholarships and grants to help students pay for college. This state-by-state list provides links to state-administered programs.
By Edvisors Network
Fellowships are like scholarships, but are used to pay for graduate school instead of undergraduate school. Many fellowships are available for graduate students in science, mathematics, engineering, and the arts and humanities. There are also several prestigious fellowships for international study.
By Edvisors Network
There are many advantages and disadvantages to working on-campus and off-campus. On-campus jobs are conveniently located and provide tuition assistance and academic benefits, but may offer lower wages than off-campus jobs. Rules concerning off-campus jobs may be less restrictive. But off-campus jobs may be less accommodating concerning the student’s academic schedule and may involve more time commuting to and from school.
By Elaine Rubin
Students can earn an education award worth as much as the maximum Federal Pell Grant for a year of full-time volunteer service with the AmeriCorps program. The education award may be used to pay for school or to repay federal student loans.
By Elaine Rubin
Review the pros and cons of Parent PLUS Loans to private student loans. Comparison chart included.
Compare your student loan options easily with our comparison tables. Understand the benefits of Direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans, PLUS loans, and private student loans.
By Edvisors Network
Free scholarships for college students can make college dreams come true. Check out Edvisors list of free scholarships and tools for making your scholarship search easier!
By Elaine Rubin
Check out this list of scholarships for students who are the first in their family to go to college.
By Anita Thomas
A tuition payment plan or installment plan splits your bill into equal payments, usually for a small fee. Find out if a tuition payment plan is right for you.
By Tre Norman
Several lenders offer private loans specifically for the parents of college students. Learn more about the costs and benefits of Private Parent Loans.
By Mollie Allen
Medical and residency loans help post-graduate medical students pay for board exam fees and costs associated with residency and relocation. Find competitive loans from top lenders.
By Tre Norman
Several lenders offer private loans specifically for the parents of college students. Learn more about the costs and benefits of Private Parent Loans.
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