financial advice & planning

The Steep Price of Becoming a Doctor: Examining the Cost of Medical School

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 4, 2025

Do you dream of becoming a doctor? It’s a gratifying career, but let’s be real, medical school comes with a hefty cost. Medical school costs often require years of financial planning and student loans. But don’t worry, there are ways to make it more manageable—and help you realize your dream! Let’s look at the numbers, …

financial advice & planning

Budgets Made Easy: The Best Free Budgeting Apps

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 4, 2025

“Where did my paycheck disappear to?” If you’ve ever found yourself asking this question, you’re not alone. Let’s be honest, keeping track of spending, paying off credit card debt, and saving for future goals is a LOT—especially as a college student. Budgeting will make it feel much more manageable. A good budget helps you control …

financial advice & planning, questions & answers

Is Leasing a Car a Smart Move for College Students?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on January 29, 2025

Yes, you can lease a car in college if you meet the age requirements for that state. The legal age to get a driver’s license in the United States varies by state but is usually between 16 and 18 years old. But, just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Leasing a car in college may …

financial advice & planning

Invest in Your Future: Maximize Your 529 Tax Benefits

By College Raptor StaffPublished on January 23, 2025

Saving for college is a big financial commitment, and families today are more interested than ever in finding smart ways to make the most of their savings. That’s where the 529 savings plan comes in—an investment account specifically designed to help save for qualified education expenses. We’ll walk you through the 529 tax benefits, explain …

financial advice & planning, financial aid

Empowering Students: The Importance of Financial Aid Awareness Month

By College Raptor StaffPublished on January 15, 2025

Every February, Financial Aid Awareness Month rolls around to remind us just how life-changing financial aid is for college-bound students and their families. This initiative is about opening up opportunities that bring your college dreams closer to reality. It’s the bridge that connects your ambitions to possibilities through grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loans. Financial …

financial advice & planning

How Much Should You Save for College?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on October 30, 2024

Key Takeaway: Wondering how much to save for college? To know where to start, it’s important to understand the typical costs of college and how inflation plays a part. This article outlines average tuition costs for the 2023-24 school year and discusses several savings vehicles—529 plans*, Coverdell ESAs, and traditional savings accounts. It will also …

financial advice & planning

How To Pay For College If You Haven’t Started Saving Yet

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 25, 2025

Paying for college with no savings is still possible when you consider cutting back your discretionary costs, working part time, taking classes at community college and considering more affordable college options. Several financial aid resources are available for college students including FAFSA, state grants, and scholarship programs. Private student loans are an option to help …

financial advice & planning

Work Study vs. Non Work Study Job: Which is Better?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on February 28, 2024

Many students choose to work during their college years, either because they want to or because of financial need. When looking for jobs, you usually have two choices: work study vs non work study. Both options offer opportunities to earn income, but they differ in terms of who is eligible, where they are located, and …

financial advice & planning

Your Guide to Student Checking Accounts

By College Raptor StaffPublished on September 26, 2023

Student checking accounts are designed with a range of features that are tailored to meet the unique needs of students enrolled in colleges and universities. The aim of checking accounts for college students is to simplify money management for first-time account holders. Opening a student checking account is a great way to lay a solid …

financial advice & planning

Is Tuition Insurance Worth It?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 22, 2023

What is tuition insurance, and is it worth it? There’s no single answer that’s right for all students. Buying tuition insurance can add to the already high cost of college. On the other hand, it can protect you financially should you find yourself in a position where you need to withdraw from school but your …