student loans

New Year Resolution: Understand Student Loans

By Dave LandryLast updated on December 22, 2022

A new year almost always means new goals and resolutions for many students and former students. Along with getting healthier, one of the top New Year’s resolutions is to pay off debt and save money. Student loans account for a large amount of debt for many people. Getting them paid off can be an overwhelming …

student loans

How do I Consolidate a Loan?

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

Understanding various ways that you can make the college loan process easier on yourself is important knowledge to have going into school. A majority of prospective college students will need some source of financial help, and if you’re included in this chunk of the population and don’t opt to apply for scholarships, odds are you’ll …

student loans

The Difference Between a Variable Rate and a Fixed Rate

By Allison WignallLast updated on May 10, 2023

There are a lot of questions students ask before taking loans to pay for college. For those who need a private student loan, one such consideration is: “Should I choose a fixed rate or variable interest rates”? In order to know what’s right for you, you’ll have to compare the two types of interest rates …

student loans

Questions You Should Ask Your Private Student Loan Lender

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

College is pricey, which means students are looking for ways to pay for their college education. Student loans are one of many ways to pay for college—but unlike gift aid, loans have to be paid back. A private loan should only be considered after you’ve fully exhausted scholarships, grants, and federal aid programs. Even then, …

student loans

How to Improve Your Credit Score for Your Student Loans

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 6, 2023

If you’re relying on student loans to fund your college education, it’s important to take steps to improve your credit score. It’s never too early to get started with building credit. Building strong credit takes time. It is not an overnight undertaking. It takes months and years. The sooner you start, the more time you …

student loans

Dangers of Defaulting on Student Loans

By Liz SkogerboeLast updated on December 22, 2022

Taking out student loans means eventually paying them back. Failing to make your loan payments on time can result in some pretty hefty consequences. When getting your loan, the lender sets legal terms that you sign for in a document. You also agreed to a schedule of paying back the loan. This document, the promissory …

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 Do I Refinance a Student Loan?

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

Emanuel Lasker, a chess world champion, thought of as one of the greatest of the game’s players, was once asked what basic advice he would give to beginning chess players. “When you see a good move,” Lasker replied, “look for a better one”. Even if you don’t play chess, Lasker’s advice applies to a variety …

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

When Should I Start Thinking About Student Loans?

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

Every student is faced with a choice when they exit the relative financial comfort of high school to attend an institution of higher learning. Tuition rates are mounting, and it is perhaps more important than in the past to have a plan for college payments. There are several options open to assist students with the …