financial advice & planning

How To Improve Your Credit Score During College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

With tests, student loans, and plenty of studying, credit scores are often forgotten during college. However, these years are a great time to start working on your score. When you graduate, if your score is strong, it will help you get the things you need, like a car or an apartment. Here are some small …

student loans

Avoid These 3 Big Student Loan Mistakes!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Obtaining student loans is one of the biggest and most expensive decisions you will ever make in your lifetime, and it is up there with purchasing a car or a house. It’s important to understand what you’re getting into, agreeing to, and what is expected of you in the years to come. Here are three …

student loans

How to Pick the Best Student Loan for You

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You’ve chosen your school for the fall, but now it’s time to choose your student loan. The application process and knowing the pros and cons of each type are the most important when it comes to picking which one is right for you. Here’s a rundown of some of the steps to take and things …

student loans

The Difference Between Direct Subsidized Loans and Unsubsidized

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Applying for the FAFSA matters. When applying for federal aid through FAFSA, you will find that there are two loans for students available through their program: direct subsidized loans and unsubsidized. Your family’s current financial situation and your needs determine which loan lenders offer and which you prefer. Direct Subsidized Loans  Subsidized, also know as …

college applications

What Counts as “Leadership Experience” on College Apps?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 27, 2024

Undoubtedly you’ve seen a section on a college application (or a job application, for that matter) that asks about your leadership experience. Leadership is one of those key elements that college admissions officers look for in their applicants along with qualities like—responsibility, time management, dedication, and hard work. “Leadership” is a buzzword that will catch …

questions & answers

What’s the Difference Between an Independent and Dependent Student?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

When you go to fill out your FAFSA form for federal financial aid, one thing you will have to determine is if you’re a dependent or an independent student. This is crucial as it will affect how much money you can receive from the Department of Education. An Independent Student You must meet multiple criteria …

college admissions

How to Navigate a College Deferred Admission Decision

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 9, 2024

When you apply to a college under early action or early decision, you can get back three responses: accepted, rejected, or deferred. Deferred means the college wants to review your application again with the regular decision applicants. It can be stressful, as you’ll have to play the waiting game, but here are some things you …

student loans

Types of Federal Student Loan Repayment Plans

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 4, 2024

There are several different federal student loan repayment plans you can choose from, each one designed to meet different needs and requirements. The repayment plan you choose will impact your cost of borrowing as well as the time it takes to clear the debt. Understanding the different types of federal student loan repayment plans, how …

student loans

Types of Federal Student Loans

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

The federal loans program in the United States is officially known as the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. Under the Department of Education, there are three types of federal student loans available: direct subsidized, direct unsubsidized, and Direct PLUS loans. It’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons before choosing which is …