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Episode 12 - How to Use Financial Aid
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Credit is pretty much a mandatory element in today's world. There's not much that you can accomplish without it. Everything from buying vehicles to a residence to business entities revolves around the concept of credit. It's not just creditors who look at your credit, though. Landlords, employers, insurance companies and even cell phone providers examine credit histories before they decide with whom to do business.
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Whether you want to buy a house, rent an apartment, apply for a credit card, or take out a personal loan, you will need good credit. When you fall into the good credit range, lenders will be more likely to approve you for loans and charge you lower interest rates. Fortunately, if you don’t have good credit, there are ways for you to build your credit over time.
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Mobile pay is the hottest trend in digital payment methods in today's connected world. Using your mobile phone to make payments has become extremely popular among consumers. A mobile payment app allows you to lead a largely cashless lifestyle. The app connects your payment card to your bank account to make payments online and physically uses the device you usually carry with you - your cellular phone.
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Welcome to Episode 1 of our podcast, Student LIFE Edvisors! Our hosts Elaine Rubin and Tré Norman introduce themselves as well as discuss the latest when it comes to COVID and school.
In this first of two episodes, Elaine & Tré break down tips & tricks for paying for college as they share their own learning experiences. Part 2, coming soon, will have Elaine and Tré talking about life on campus and the importance of budgeting so you don't run out of money when you need it the most.
In this second episode of Paying for College, Elaine and Tré break down the importance of budgeting & more when it comes to life as a college student. Also they help you get up to speed on new changes you will be seeing in the 2022-2023 FAFSA application.
In this episode we interview special guest, founder and CEO of Stride Funding, Tess Michaels! She stops by to talk with Elaine & Tré about alternative ways to pay for college. Learn all about ISAs and Tess's journey helping students pay for school and more!
Scholarship expert Ryan Kelly talk with us about scholarships. Having won of $150K in scholarships herself, she has some great tips to share.
In this episode, Elaine & Tré break down what courageous conversations are how to utilize these conversations in college and your day-to-day life.
A loan is an amount of money that you borrow from a bank, credit union, online lender, other financial institution, or even person with the understanding the money will be paid back later.
This may be your first time managing your own money; you may not be aware of the different strategies and tools available to help you make your money go further and even save some along the way!
Knowing the basics about investments can help you make smart money choices. Investment apps often offer educational resources to help you understand how to grow your money.
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A trust fund is a tool that establishes a legal entity to hold property or assets for a person or organization.
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Credit is a written agreement where one party (the borrower) borrows money from another party (the lender) with the understanding that the borrowed money will be paid back at a later date, typically with interest.
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A savings account is primarily used for saving you money while a checking account is intended for daily access to your money.
While there are many ways to invest, the goal of investing is always the same--a desire to grow your money.
When you go to a bank or credit union to borrow money, it’s going to cost you as well. Read on to understand how interest works and how to make it work for you!
Budgeting allows you to see and track your outgoing expenses from incoming expenses. A budget helps you to manage and master the money you have by allocating it to specific categories.
Budgeting is one of the most essential skills an adult can have, yet it’s still a challenge for most young people. Luckily, there are an array of mobile applications on the market that claim to simplify budgeting for users. Consider these top five selections to get your spending habits under control.
Insurance covers part of your financial liability for several incidents, from medical costs to a car accident, to damage to your apartment. No one ever knows what surprises life will bring next. Some are good, but some are not. It’s never too early to review your insurance options to provide peace of mind.
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If you are currently facing debt, like many Americans, you are probably wondering if you’ll ever be able to pay it all off. Unfortunately, many people simply don’t know where to start when it comes to paying off debt. In reality, paying off debt may be easier than you think if you just take small steps.
There are literally thousands of different cryptocurrencies in use all over the globe. While that number sounds staggering, there are around 20 that are the major players in the crypto game. Currently, the five most popular cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, USD Coin and Binance Coin.
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Budgeting is an important aspect of money management and is a critical tool for obtaining financial security. A good budget helps you achieve solid financial footing for the present and the future.
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Student loan deferment is a temporary suspension of student loan payments, whereas forbearance is a plan that temporarily reduces or suspends student loan payments, but the borrower is still responsible for paying the interest on the loan while in forbearance.
Having a cosigner when you refinance your student loans may help you qualify for a more competitive interest rate. Understand what it means to ask someone to cosign. Look for options like cosigner release.
You took out loans to help your child pay for college, but now that they are independent, you’d like them to assume responsibility for paying the money back. We explain your options.
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Most college students take out loans to pay for their education. Learn ways to reduce or eliminate your student loan debt.
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You can conquer your student loan debt. Here are some hacks, including tips on loan forgiveness, to help ease the burden of student loan debt.
Although you may not be eligible for a credit card with extensive perks and benefits, you can still begin building your credit score and history
Whether you want to build your credit or you simply want to conveniently purchase items without paying upfront, a credit card is a great addition to your wallet.
If you are looking to pursue graduate school, know that there is funding available to you through scholarships, grants, and fellowships which can help ease the financial strain.
You may want to consider possible majors, location, networking, price, and ultimately, ability to find a job as you decide what college to attend.
Read on to see our curated state list of accredited schools with online degree options.
We will walk you through how to apply for college and the three steps you should take when applying to have the best chances of getting into the school that is the right fit for you.
The ACT and SAT are designed to test college readiness, but vary in structure, timing, and scoring. We’ll walk you through the differences to help decide which test is right for you.
You can secure financial aid to help you obtain your second undergraduate degree starting with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Deciding to go to public vs private college might not seem important but there are some financial considerations you should think about before making a decision.
College is not required for everyone, but has benefits such as networking, increased income potential, and a variety of career opportunities, to name a few.
Starting your college applications early can prevent added and unnecessary stress to your senior year, but read on to learn about the different steps you can take as a high school student to prepare.
Edly offers Income Based Repayment (IBR) loans, an alternative to traditional private student loans.
Free online college courses are a great resource to help you broaden your pool of knowledge or to help you stay up to date within your industry.
Whether you have fair credit or no credit at all, there’s a credit card option available for you.
The Common Application is a non-profit organization that offers the Common App, a free college application shared by over 900 member schools.
A 529 plan, also known as a college savings plan, is a plan that allows you to save and pay for the future education of yourself, your child, a family member, or even friend.
Students can pursue their degree or upskill wherever they are with the lure of affordable and accessible online colleges.
As a member of the military, you have a few options if you are considering military discharge or loan forgiveness as there are special student loan benefits, forgiveness, and repayment options available to you.
Online courses have a similar workload to their face-to-face classes with similar assignments partnered with virtual lectures and discussion boards to supplement learning.
Getting an online degree is possible with online admission and a variety of courses and programs to choose from—all without having to step foot on a college campus.
Student loan forgiveness isn’t available to everyone, but for those who qualify it can remove some if not all of your student loan debt. Understanding program eligibility requirements and various application processes can be confusing, learn how to navigate the process.
You may be excited to know that you can use federal student aid, federal student loans, and private loans to cover the cost of attending many online colleges.
Distance learning now allows students to work from wherever they have internet access. It is possible to learn just as much away from the formal classroom setting.
Expected family contribution is an index that determines how much financial aid you are eligible for. It’s important to understand what it is and how it effects how much you need to pay for college.
You can expect to be paying student loans off for 10 to 25 years, depending on the kind of loan you choose, and the repayment terms you and your lender agree to.
Wondering how to get a student loan? The first step is to fill out the FAFSA.
Your credit score is positively affected by the on-time student loan payments you make, and negatively affected when you miss or make late paymentsYour credit score is positively affected by the student loan payments you make, and negatively affected when you don’t make payments..
For students with multiple loans, consolidation can help simplify the repayment process. Learn the steps and considerations of student loan consolidation.
Most student loans enter repayment six-months after you graduate or drop below half-time attendance. You can expect your first monthly payment to be due at the end of your grace period.
Popular scholarships can be very generous. Students with the qualifications should apply for these awards but know that the competition will be significant.
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.
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.
Grants can offset the cost of attending college and may be received by first filling out the FAFSA ® to see what federal aid you qualify for.
Merit scholarships award you for the work you have done during your time in high school and allow you to receive money for school that does not take your family finances into consideration.
Completing the FAFSA can be a good starting place when seeking a grant to help pay for your education.
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!
College grants are monetary gift-aid usually based on financial need to assist in paying for school tuition, fees, and other school-based expenses that are not usually required to be paid back
A scholarship is a monetary gift or award to help in covering the costs associated with attending a college and is typically based on meeting certain requirements.
Your college essay could be the deciding factor for your acceptance. Learn how to write a good college essay including elements of some of the best winning essays.
College application deadlines will vary by school, but most are due in the fall of your senior year of high school (September through December).
The difference between student loans and scholarships are that scholarships are gift-money that does not been to be paid back whereas student loans are required to be paid back.
Wondering if you are eligible for financial aid, if filling out the FAFSA will be helpful or not? We explain eligibility requirements for receiving financial aid.
Each scholarship program has its own submission requirements and due dates. Carefully read each of the application details to ensure you are a valid applicant for the scholarship.
Understand how to find the best scholarships for you, put forth your best application, and know what happens when you win scholarships.
The rare but attainable full ride scholarship can answer the question “how am I going to pay for college?” So what does a full ride scholarship mean and how do you receive one?
College Essays are typically between 200 and 650 words. How you use those words can be the determining factor for admission. We share how to make the most of your brief but important essay.
Credit Card APR -is the annual percentage rate charged to use the credit card when you don’t pay off the balance at the end of the month.
In most cases you do not have to pay back grants. Grants are financial awards given by the government, state or educational institutions to help pay for college.
Many students have fair credit. We’ve found the best credit cards for college students looking to build their credit score and establish excellent credit.
Your student loan repayment options available to you will depend on the type of student loans you have, federal or private. There are quite a few options to choose from. While it’s great to have choices, it may feel overwhelming to understand which one is best for you.
You know you need good credit, but what does that mean, and what kinds of things can affect your credit score? We break it down for you here.
You’ve heard that credit inquiries impact your credit score, but what's the difference between a soft and hard credit inquiry, and how can you shop around for a good rate without getting “dinged?” We explain how it works.
The most important financial question you’ll be asked on the FAFSA: What is your income? Learn how income affects your eligibility for financial aid — and how to potentially lower the impact.
Hotel credit cards are an excellent way to maximize the benefits of your everyday and travel spending to redeem for hotel perks. Check out our picks for the best hotel credit cards and compare them to your needs.
Though credit cards are normally convenient when traveling abroad, this method of payment can quickly become expensive with foreign transaction fees. Browse the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards to find the one that's right for you.
Many Americans fly several times a year, whether it be for work, pleasure, or simply to see family and friends. Finding the best travel rewards credit cards and collecting points is a great idea for avid travelers.
Find the best credit cards for airport lounge access. When you’re at the airport and you stroll past exclusive lounge areas, you’ll notice that many of them are reserved for customers with specific credit cards. Which one is right for you?
Some wealthy parents ask whether it is worthwhile to apply for financial aid if they earn a high income. Every student should file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year, even if he or she did not receive any other types of aid during the previous year.
Why should you refinance or consolidate your student loans? You could lower your monthly payments, and you may even qualify for a reduced interest rate. Cosigners can also be released through a refinance. We work with top lenders to offer you the right solution.
Federal School Codes are six-character alphanumeric codes that uniquely identify colleges and universities, you can look up the school code by just completing an electronic version on the FAFSA.
A no annual fee card is an excellent choice whether you are looking to build credit or gain travel benefits. It can be tough to know which is best for you. We've reviewed the cards for you to help make the decision easier.
Airline credit cards are ideal if you are a frequent flier. Additionally, an airline credit card can help you access a low introductory APR rate, balance transfer opportunities, and some great travel perks.
Understanding how assets are assessed when filling out the FAFSA and minimizing their impact.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Secured credit cards are a good option for people looking to build or rebuild their credit. Learn what they are and how they work.
Student loan forgiveness can be achieved but beware of student loan forgiveness program scams. Learn what red flags to watch out for.
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.
Teachers may be able to have all or some of their student loans forgiven if they apply and are approved in select programs.
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.
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.
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.
Private Student loans can be refinanced to offer lower interest rates, different repayment terms, and other revisions to help manage student loan debt.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Credit Unions differ from banks. Understanding the pros and cons of joining a credit union are important when deciding which financial institution to patronize.
The best credit unions for student loans. Learn which credit unions are best for borrowing money for college.
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.
Credit Union Student Loans can be a smart move if you need more money after receiving other financial aid.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 private student loan lender CommonBond, their loan products, customer service, and how they give back.
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.
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.
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.
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.
When shopping for student loans, it's helpful to know the average student loan interest rate of private and federal student loans.
Learn more about PNC student loan products, including in school and refinancing loans.
Learn the variety of ways students and parents can pay for college both with and without student loans.
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.
There are many ways you can pay off your student loans faster. Make more than the minimum payment, enroll in automatic payments, make bi-weekly payments and among other strategies.
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.
Find current private student loan interest rates and compare to federal student loan interest rates to find the loan that is right for you.
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.
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.
Nelnet Bank offers a variety of student loan products including in school and refinancing options.
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.
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.
There are options to help pay for law school such as scholarships, grants, federal and private student loans. We explain these options so you can determine how you will pay for law school.
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.
There are many ways to find scholarship opportunities if you know where to look. Here are some tips on how to get started.
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.
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.
Laurel Road offers in-school and refinance student loans. Laurel Road offers multiple student loan products to choose from and an online application process.
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.
With Splash Financial student loan refinancing, you can get prequalified and find your rate without affecting your credit score.
Citizens Bank offers in school private student loans as well as student loan refinancing. Learn more about their products and benefits.
Federal student loan interest rates are as low as 4.99%, and private loans start around 3.99%. But what does it really cost to borrow? Origination fees and other factors make a big difference on federal and private student loans.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For the 2020-2021 academic school year, Well Fargo is only extending student loans to existing borrowers. Learn more about their student loan program.
Learn more about private student loan lender, Ascent, including their product offerings and how they give back to the community.
Learn more about College Ave and their undergraduate, graduate, and parent student loan options.
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.
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.
FAFSA deadlines can vary. The FAFSA for the 2023-2024 academic year opens on October 1st and remains open until June 30, 2024. However to improve your chances of getting more aid, file as soon as you can and certainly well before any applicable deadlines noted below.
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.
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.
Get your federal undergraduate student loan questions answered with our complete guide!
A list of scholarships for students on the autism spectrum.
Learn how who is eligible to borrow a Parent PLUS Loan, what to consider, and how to apply.
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.
Interest rates on Direct Loans are fixed. Undergraduates receive lower interest rates than graduate students. Find current interest rates and fees for Direct Loans.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans are federal student loans available to undergraduate and graduate students. Learn more about eligibility, interest rates, and how to apply.
Get the details on the Direct Subsidized Loan program, including eligibility, interest rates and how to apply.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Learn which student loans do not require a credit check, and what you need to know to qualify for credit-based student loans.
Have you heard a lot about private student loans? We're busting 7 common myths with expert advice.
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.
In this episode, Elaine & Tré touch upon the recent rise in prices and their impact on students. They share ideas on how to save money & manage your budget during these challenging times.
Learn the most effective methods of increasing a student’s chances of winning a private scholarship.
Check out this list of popular and generous college scholarships for students majoring in journalism or communications.
Less-selective colleges use academic scholarships to recruit academically talented students. Check out this resource guide for academic scholarships.
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!
Check out this list of the most generous and prestigious national scholarships for female college students.
Less-competitive scholarships are easier to win because fewer students apply.
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!
Check out this list of some of the most prestigious and generous scholarships for African-American college students.
More than $1 billion in athletic scholarships are awarded each year to less than 1% of undergraduate students. Learn more about these specialized awards.
Learn more about scholarships for international students hoping to study in the United States and scholarships for American students studying abroad.
Check out these scholarship resources for undocumented college students and learn more about eligibility for federal, state and college financial aid programs.
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.
Check out this list of some of the most prestigious and generous scholarships available to minority college students.
Some scholarships offer significant financial awards to students who meet highly specialized criteria. Learn more about these generous scholarships.
Borrowers can reduce the amount of money spent on student loan payments by following several strategies before taking out loans and during repayment.
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.
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.
Learn more about scholarships for U.S. students studying abroad.
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.
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.
Several lenders offer private loans specifically for the parents of college students. Learn more about the costs and benefits of Private Parent Loans.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Review the pros and cons of Parent PLUS Loans to private student loans. Comparison chart included.
Several lenders offer private loans specifically for the parents of college students. Learn more about the costs and benefits of Private Parent Loans.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Residency and relocation loans help dental school students and graduates pay for the cost of preparing for dental boards and relocating for a residency.
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.
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.
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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.
Find out how the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) can help students qualify for a variety of scholarship programs, including the prestigious National Merit Scholarship.
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.
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.
Many states offer scholarships and grants to help students pay for college. This state-by-state list provides links to state-administered programs.
Most student loans have limits that affect how much you can borrow. Learn about the limits for Direct, Perkins, PLUS, consolidation, and private loans.
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.
Check out this list of scholarships for students who are the first in their family to go to college.
A number of public and private organizations offer college scholarships to students who have been affected by cancer. Check out this resource list.
Review the pros and cons of Parent PLUS Loans to private student loans. Comparison chart included.
Learn more about scholarships for international students hoping to study in the United States.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
College scholarships are available from several private organizations to help veterans and their dependents pay for a college education.
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!
Find out why students and parents should or should not borrow from a 401k retirement plan to finance a college education.
In this episode Elaine & Tré discuss what to know when it comes to receiving your financial aid, the do's & don'ts on managing your financial aid, and more!
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.
While not impossible it is extremely difficult to discharge student loans in bankruptcy. If you are considering bankruptcy, read on to understand your options.
The winners of the most respected scholarships are students with extraordinary achievements and capabilities. Learn more about these prestigious awards.
Having credit means that a lender has approved you and given you permission to borrow money from them that you're required to pay back, with interest, in the future.
Credit card theft involves the stealing and manipulating of credit card numbers with the intent of engaging in fraudulent activities. Credit card fraud occurs when someone uses a stolen credit card or the information from that card to make unauthorized purchases or other transactions.
Risk management is an essential component of money management. It involves identifying and analyzing potential losses and then taking steps to minimize their impact.
A debt repayment plan is a type of repayment plan that helps individuals regain control of their finances. By pairing with a credit counselor, you can gain a comprehensive view of your financial situation and better understand the options at your disposal. If you and your counselor feel a debt management plan may be a solution, they can work on your behalf to develop a new payment plan that better fits your budget and lifestyle.
Credit is pretty much a mandatory element in today's world. There's not much that you can accomplish without it. Everything from buying vehicles to a residence to business entities revolves around the concept of credit. It's not just creditors who look at your credit, though. Landlords, employers, insurance companies and even cell phone providers examine credit histories before they decide with whom to do business.
Borrowing money for education fees, medical bills, or other needs may help to pay for short-term expenses, but that money will need to be repaid. You can take control of your debt and work to become debt free.
Whether you want to buy a house, rent an apartment, apply for a credit card, or take out a personal loan, you will need good credit. When you fall into the good credit range, lenders will be more likely to approve you for loans and charge you lower interest rates. Fortunately, if you don’t have good credit, there are ways for you to build your credit over time.
An HSA is a special type of savings account that allows you to put aside funds on a pre-tax basis so to cover certain medical expenses that qualify. You can only have an HSA if you also have an HDHP. Funds from your HSA can be used for copayments and deductibles, as well as some other qualified expenses.
Mobile pay is the hottest trend in digital payment methods in today's connected world. Using your mobile phone to make payments has become extremely popular among consumers. A mobile payment app allows you to lead a largely cashless lifestyle. The app connects your payment card to your bank account to make payments online and physically uses the device you usually carry with you - your cellular phone.
A credit limit is the maximum amount you can charge on your credit card. Once you reach your limit, you can't make any more purchases until you pay down your balance.
Welcome to Episode 1 of our podcast, Student LIFE Edvisors! Our hosts Elaine Rubin and Tré Norman introduce themselves as well as discuss the latest when it comes to COVID and school.
In this first of two episodes, Elaine & Tré break down tips & tricks for paying for college as they share their own learning experiences. Part 2, coming soon, will have Elaine and Tré talking about life on campus and the importance of budgeting so you don't run out of money when you need it the most.
In this second episode of Paying for College, Elaine and Tré break down the importance of budgeting & more when it comes to life as a college student. Also they help you get up to speed on new changes you will be seeing in the 2022-2023 FAFSA application.
In this episode we interview special guest, founder and CEO of Stride Funding, Tess Michaels! She stops by to talk with Elaine & Tré about alternative ways to pay for college. Learn all about ISAs and Tess's journey helping students pay for school and more!
Scholarship expert Ryan Kelly talk with us about scholarships. Having won of $150K in scholarships herself, she has some great tips to share.
In this episode, Elaine & Tré break down what courageous conversations are how to utilize these conversations in college and your day-to-day life.
A loan is an amount of money that you borrow from a bank, credit union, online lender, other financial institution, or even person with the understanding the money will be paid back later.
This may be your first time managing your own money; you may not be aware of the different strategies and tools available to help you make your money go further and even save some along the way!
Knowing the basics about investments can help you make smart money choices. Investment apps often offer educational resources to help you understand how to grow your money.
Wealth management is a service that offers financial advice and combines other financial services to address the needs of clients.
A trust fund is a tool that establishes a legal entity to hold property or assets for a person or organization.
A high-yield savings account is a savings account that offers a higher interest rate than a standard savings account.
In this episode Elaine & Tre discuss managing your mental health while in college and offer tips on how to work through the rough times.
In this episode learn what you should know about applying for an receiving financial aid & how to manage your expectations for it.
In this episode Elaine & Tre break down how to be successful in college, From utilizing all resources you have available to why you should make sure to pass each class you take & more.
In this episode Elaine & Tre discuss everything we know so far in regards to the recent announcement of Biden's Student Loan Forgiveness.
Just because you are a student doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a savings account. When it comes to building up your savings, you have time on your side.
Learn how to manage yourself financially while working towards reaching your financial goals with these 10 useful tips to help you make the most of a student budget.
Identity theft is when someone uses personal identifiable information (PII) such as your name, Social Security Number or other ID number, banking information or credit card without your permission.
It is possible to navigate the stock market once you understand the basics of what a stock is, how to buy and sell stocks, and why you would want to invest in stocks.
Credit is a written agreement where one party (the borrower) borrows money from another party (the lender) with the understanding that the borrowed money will be paid back at a later date, typically with interest.
Big ticket items can take months or years to save up for, so let’s look at what you need to take into consideration what planning for a major purchase.
Financial goals are a plan for managing your money. These goals help you to save and manage how you spend, as well as keep you focused on where your money goes.
A savings account is primarily used for saving you money while a checking account is intended for daily access to your money.
While there are many ways to invest, the goal of investing is always the same--a desire to grow your money.
When you go to a bank or credit union to borrow money, it’s going to cost you as well. Read on to understand how interest works and how to make it work for you!
Budgeting allows you to see and track your outgoing expenses from incoming expenses. A budget helps you to manage and master the money you have by allocating it to specific categories.
Budgeting is one of the most essential skills an adult can have, yet it’s still a challenge for most young people. Luckily, there are an array of mobile applications on the market that claim to simplify budgeting for users. Consider these top five selections to get your spending habits under control.
Insurance covers part of your financial liability for several incidents, from medical costs to a car accident, to damage to your apartment. No one ever knows what surprises life will bring next. Some are good, but some are not. It’s never too early to review your insurance options to provide peace of mind.
As long as you have a bank account and a computer or another device that connects to the internet, you can access online banking. There are a few basic steps to establishing your virtual presence. You'll need to know your account numbers for your credit cards, utilities etc., which can typically be found on their respective statements.
Checking your credit score is a relatively easy thing to do. Without having to go too far, you can check your credit card or loan statement. Many credit card companies and lenders have begun to add your credit score to your statement for your reference.
There are several ways that you can invest in cryptocurrency. The most common method is to buy it directly. This allows you to purchase and store one or more types of cryptocurrencies. The two most popular types of cryptocurrency include Bitcoin and Ethereum, although there are typically many new types to invest in, and are referred to as initial coin offerings.
If you decide you need a savings account. Here are some of the different types you can choose from: traditional savings accounts, high yield savings accounts, certificate of deposit, money market account and cash management accounts.
If you are currently facing debt, like many Americans, you are probably wondering if you’ll ever be able to pay it all off. Unfortunately, many people simply don’t know where to start when it comes to paying off debt. In reality, paying off debt may be easier than you think if you just take small steps.
There are literally thousands of different cryptocurrencies in use all over the globe. While that number sounds staggering, there are around 20 that are the major players in the crypto game. Currently, the five most popular cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, USD Coin and Binance Coin.
When you spend more money than what you have in your bank account, an overdraft can occur. When this happens, your financial institution may charge you an insufficient funds fee. What this means is that your bank chooses to cover the transaction, but at a price. Unfortunately, that price is usually high.
Budgeting is an important aspect of money management and is a critical tool for obtaining financial security. A good budget helps you achieve solid financial footing for the present and the future.
A checking account is what is known as a deposit account. A deposit account is simply an account at a bank or credit union that allows both deposits and withdrawals. Checking and savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) are all examples of deposit accounts.
Your plan’s deductible is the amount you pay for covered medical expenses before your health insurance will start paying for them. You need to reach the full amount of a deductible in order for a carrier to begin processing and paying claims.
A loan is money borrowed that is expected to be paid back, typically with interest. Not all loans are created equal. In fact, there are over a dozen types of consumer loans you may use to finance your next big purchase, cover an unexpected expense or fund your future goals.
Cryptocurrency has been a constant topic of discussion since its rapid ascent to popularity in the 2010s. Many dismissed digital currencies as a fad that would soon fade, but their staying power proved the opposite to be true. If you’re interested in a virtual currency that allows you to break free from financial institutions and harness computer power to generate funds, this is for you.
An emergency fund is a source of funding on which you can rely when life throws you lemons. It is a cash reserve that you allocate strictly for when unexpected, costly and urgent issues arise. Such issues do not include dire wants, such as a new television or a pair of shoes but rather, true emergencies.
Need help filing the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)? Use this guide to walk your through the process.
In this video, learn about what you should know when it comes to this FAFSA season!
Stride offers Income Share Agreements (ISAs) to students as a different option to help pay for school when federal funds aren’t enough.
Student loan default can stay on your credit report for up to 7 years. Even if you are falling behind on your payments you can prevent student loan default. If you are in student loan default, there are ways to recover.
You may consolidate federal student loans even if you have bad credit, however consolidating private student loans with bad credit will be more difficult and will require a creditworthy cosigner.
Here are four common methods for locating your student loans. You will need to know who your loan servicers are in order to refinance your student loans.
Private student loan forgiveness does not exist; at least not in the same way that federal student loan forgiveness exists. This article will examine some of the things you may be able to explore with your lender, or potentially with your attorney if you’re pursuing bankruptcy.
Should you use a HELOC to pay your student loans? While it may seem tempting, it also puts your home on the line. Could student loan refinancing be a better solution? Understand what you will be sacrificing if you use a HELOC to pay your student loans and explore other options.
Student loan deferment is a temporary suspension of student loan payments, whereas forbearance is a plan that temporarily reduces or suspends student loan payments, but the borrower is still responsible for paying the interest on the loan while in forbearance.
Having a cosigner when you refinance your student loans may help you qualify for a more competitive interest rate. Understand what it means to ask someone to cosign. Look for options like cosigner release.
You took out loans to help your child pay for college, but now that they are independent, you’d like them to assume responsibility for paying the money back. We explain your options.
APR is important to be aware of because it’s the amount you’re charged for borrowing money with your credit card.
Is your goal to graduate with little to no debt? These 12 strategies for smart borrowing are a great place to start. Learn about gift aid, tuition payment plans, and how to minimize student loan debt.
Most college students take out loans to pay for their education. Learn ways to reduce or eliminate your student loan debt.
What’s the best strategy to tackle your credit card and student loan debt? Hear from the experts on the pros and cons of attacking one vs. the other; including how it impacts your credit score.
You can conquer your student loan debt. Here are some hacks, including tips on loan forgiveness, to help ease the burden of student loan debt.
Although you may not be eligible for a credit card with extensive perks and benefits, you can still begin building your credit score and history
Whether you want to build your credit or you simply want to conveniently purchase items without paying upfront, a credit card is a great addition to your wallet.
If you are looking to pursue graduate school, know that there is funding available to you through scholarships, grants, and fellowships which can help ease the financial strain.
You may want to consider possible majors, location, networking, price, and ultimately, ability to find a job as you decide what college to attend.
Read on to see our curated state list of accredited schools with online degree options.
We will walk you through how to apply for college and the three steps you should take when applying to have the best chances of getting into the school that is the right fit for you.
The ACT and SAT are designed to test college readiness, but vary in structure, timing, and scoring. We’ll walk you through the differences to help decide which test is right for you.
You can secure financial aid to help you obtain your second undergraduate degree starting with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Deciding to go to public vs private college might not seem important but there are some financial considerations you should think about before making a decision.
College is not required for everyone, but has benefits such as networking, increased income potential, and a variety of career opportunities, to name a few.
Starting your college applications early can prevent added and unnecessary stress to your senior year, but read on to learn about the different steps you can take as a high school student to prepare.
Edly offers Income Based Repayment (IBR) loans, an alternative to traditional private student loans.
Free online college courses are a great resource to help you broaden your pool of knowledge or to help you stay up to date within your industry.
Whether you have fair credit or no credit at all, there’s a credit card option available for you.
The Common Application is a non-profit organization that offers the Common App, a free college application shared by over 900 member schools.
A 529 plan, also known as a college savings plan, is a plan that allows you to save and pay for the future education of yourself, your child, a family member, or even friend.
Students can pursue their degree or upskill wherever they are with the lure of affordable and accessible online colleges.
As a member of the military, you have a few options if you are considering military discharge or loan forgiveness as there are special student loan benefits, forgiveness, and repayment options available to you.
Online courses have a similar workload to their face-to-face classes with similar assignments partnered with virtual lectures and discussion boards to supplement learning.
Getting an online degree is possible with online admission and a variety of courses and programs to choose from—all without having to step foot on a college campus.
Student loan forgiveness isn’t available to everyone, but for those who qualify it can remove some if not all of your student loan debt. Understanding program eligibility requirements and various application processes can be confusing, learn how to navigate the process.
You may be excited to know that you can use federal student aid, federal student loans, and private loans to cover the cost of attending many online colleges.
Distance learning now allows students to work from wherever they have internet access. It is possible to learn just as much away from the formal classroom setting.
Expected family contribution is an index that determines how much financial aid you are eligible for. It’s important to understand what it is and how it effects how much you need to pay for college.
You can expect to be paying student loans off for 10 to 25 years, depending on the kind of loan you choose, and the repayment terms you and your lender agree to.
Wondering how to get a student loan? The first step is to fill out the FAFSA.
Your credit score is positively affected by the on-time student loan payments you make, and negatively affected when you miss or make late paymentsYour credit score is positively affected by the student loan payments you make, and negatively affected when you don’t make payments..
For students with multiple loans, consolidation can help simplify the repayment process. Learn the steps and considerations of student loan consolidation.
Most student loans enter repayment six-months after you graduate or drop below half-time attendance. You can expect your first monthly payment to be due at the end of your grace period.
Popular scholarships can be very generous. Students with the qualifications should apply for these awards but know that the competition will be significant.
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.
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.
Grants can offset the cost of attending college and may be received by first filling out the FAFSA ® to see what federal aid you qualify for.
Merit scholarships award you for the work you have done during your time in high school and allow you to receive money for school that does not take your family finances into consideration.
Completing the FAFSA can be a good starting place when seeking a grant to help pay for your education.
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!
College grants are monetary gift-aid usually based on financial need to assist in paying for school tuition, fees, and other school-based expenses that are not usually required to be paid back
A scholarship is a monetary gift or award to help in covering the costs associated with attending a college and is typically based on meeting certain requirements.
Your college essay could be the deciding factor for your acceptance. Learn how to write a good college essay including elements of some of the best winning essays.
College application deadlines will vary by school, but most are due in the fall of your senior year of high school (September through December).
The difference between student loans and scholarships are that scholarships are gift-money that does not been to be paid back whereas student loans are required to be paid back.
Wondering if you are eligible for financial aid, if filling out the FAFSA will be helpful or not? We explain eligibility requirements for receiving financial aid.
Each scholarship program has its own submission requirements and due dates. Carefully read each of the application details to ensure you are a valid applicant for the scholarship.
Understand how to find the best scholarships for you, put forth your best application, and know what happens when you win scholarships.
The rare but attainable full ride scholarship can answer the question “how am I going to pay for college?” So what does a full ride scholarship mean and how do you receive one?
College Essays are typically between 200 and 650 words. How you use those words can be the determining factor for admission. We share how to make the most of your brief but important essay.
Credit Card APR -is the annual percentage rate charged to use the credit card when you don’t pay off the balance at the end of the month.
In most cases you do not have to pay back grants. Grants are financial awards given by the government, state or educational institutions to help pay for college.
Many students have fair credit. We’ve found the best credit cards for college students looking to build their credit score and establish excellent credit.
Your student loan repayment options available to you will depend on the type of student loans you have, federal or private. There are quite a few options to choose from. While it’s great to have choices, it may feel overwhelming to understand which one is best for you.
You know you need good credit, but what does that mean, and what kinds of things can affect your credit score? We break it down for you here.
You’ve heard that credit inquiries impact your credit score, but what's the difference between a soft and hard credit inquiry, and how can you shop around for a good rate without getting “dinged?” We explain how it works.
The most important financial question you’ll be asked on the FAFSA: What is your income? Learn how income affects your eligibility for financial aid — and how to potentially lower the impact.
Hotel credit cards are an excellent way to maximize the benefits of your everyday and travel spending to redeem for hotel perks. Check out our picks for the best hotel credit cards and compare them to your needs.
Though credit cards are normally convenient when traveling abroad, this method of payment can quickly become expensive with foreign transaction fees. Browse the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards to find the one that's right for you.
Many Americans fly several times a year, whether it be for work, pleasure, or simply to see family and friends. Finding the best travel rewards credit cards and collecting points is a great idea for avid travelers.
Find the best credit cards for airport lounge access. When you’re at the airport and you stroll past exclusive lounge areas, you’ll notice that many of them are reserved for customers with specific credit cards. Which one is right for you?
Some wealthy parents ask whether it is worthwhile to apply for financial aid if they earn a high income. Every student should file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year, even if he or she did not receive any other types of aid during the previous year.
Why should you refinance or consolidate your student loans? You could lower your monthly payments, and you may even qualify for a reduced interest rate. Cosigners can also be released through a refinance. We work with top lenders to offer you the right solution.
Federal School Codes are six-character alphanumeric codes that uniquely identify colleges and universities, you can look up the school code by just completing an electronic version on the FAFSA.
A no annual fee card is an excellent choice whether you are looking to build credit or gain travel benefits. It can be tough to know which is best for you. We've reviewed the cards for you to help make the decision easier.
Airline credit cards are ideal if you are a frequent flier. Additionally, an airline credit card can help you access a low introductory APR rate, balance transfer opportunities, and some great travel perks.
Understanding how assets are assessed when filling out the FAFSA and minimizing their impact.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Secured credit cards are a good option for people looking to build or rebuild their credit. Learn what they are and how they work.
Student loan forgiveness can be achieved but beware of student loan forgiveness program scams. Learn what red flags to watch out for.
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.
Teachers may be able to have all or some of their student loans forgiven if they apply and are approved in select programs.
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.
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.
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.
Private Student loans can be refinanced to offer lower interest rates, different repayment terms, and other revisions to help manage student loan debt.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Credit Unions differ from banks. Understanding the pros and cons of joining a credit union are important when deciding which financial institution to patronize.
The best credit unions for student loans. Learn which credit unions are best for borrowing money for college.
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.
Credit Union Student Loans can be a smart move if you need more money after receiving other financial aid.
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.