questions & answers

Understanding Enrollment Deposits (What To Know Before You Pay)

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 9, 2023

Your college acceptance letter should contain detailed information about your financial aid package as well as the costs you’re expected to cover. One of the items you’ll find included in the list of costs is an enrollment deposit. You’ll also see that this money must be paid much before all other fees. So, what is …

financial advice & planning

Why Is Financial Literacy Important for College Students?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on April 24, 2023

In the shuffle of sending college applications, writing scholarship essays, and applying for student loans, the one thing that goes overlooked is the importance of financial literacy. This is a huge mistake that can have far-reaching consequences. Financial literacy is the most important thing a student can learn to ensure their financial stability over the …

scholarships

4 Important Deadlines for Scholarship Applications

By Hilary CairnsPublished on April 13, 2023

You know when your college applications are due, but what about potential scholarships? These deadlines may not be as important as your college admissions, but they are essential if you want to try to make college a bit more affordable with a scholarship! Some will even cover your entire tuition if you’re lucky.  Taking note …

scholarships

Q&A with $2500 Scholarship Winner Jake Golden

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 15, 2023

Congratulations are in order for College Raptor’s most recent $2,500 scholarship winner Jake Golden! His essay made me curious about Jake’s college journey. Luckily, he was kind enough to answer a few more questions. Here’s what he had to say! CR: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Jake: My name is Jake, and I’m …

financial advice & planning

How to Manage Your Checking Account: 6 Easy Tips

By College Raptor StaffPublished on April 7, 2023

Opening a checking account offers several benefits but only if used responsibly. It’s important that you keep track of and understand how to manage your checking account. We have some important checking account tips to make sure your money is safe and to help keep you in the green. What is a checking account?  A …

financial advice & planning

Top 5 Financial Literacy Tools For College Students

By College Raptor StaffPublished on April 7, 2023

Knowing how to manage your money in college is one of the most important skills you can have. You have to master the art of stretching your limited spending money while also saving to pay back your student loans. This is where a financial literacy tool can help.  Financial literacy tools for college students aim …

financial aid

Grants That Can Help Reduce Student Loan Debt

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 28, 2023

Paying off student loans completely can be very frustrating. It can take many years of saving money and juggling finances just to afford the monthly repayments. And even then, it can seem like you’ll never ever be debt-free. One way to reduce the burden of student loan debt is by availing of grants established for …

financial advice & planning

8 Ways To Make Your College Experience More Affordable

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 21, 2024

Key Takeaways The cost of college is higher than it’s ever been with tuition doubling since 2000. Filing FAFSA, exploring financial aid options, and comparing tuition rates can help make higher education more affordable. Earning college credits in high school, considering alternative education options, and working part time are other great ways to help alleviate …

financial aid

When Will I Get My Award Letter For Financial Aid?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 3, 2023

Most colleges sent out financial aid award letters about 1 – 3 months after receiving your FAFSA information. But this is not a hard and fast rule. The timeline for sending award letters for financial aid may vary among schools. Understanding the process will give you a better idea of when to expect your financial …

financial aid

State Grants for Minnesota Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 28, 2023

Almost all states offer their students grants to better afford college – Minnesota included! We put together a quick list of some of the grants Minnesota offers, plus give you some links to additional resources for affording college in the state! Minnesota State Grants 1. Minnesota State Grant Program Available to low and moderate income …