Fund Your Future
You’ve received your college acceptance letters – congratulations! If you’ve been accepted to multiple schools, one of the biggest determining factors for your final choice may be the out of pocket cost for each option. Along with your acceptance letters, you should receive an award letter outlining the financial aid [...]
When you receive your award letter from your college of choice, you’ll see a couple of important numbers listed – the estimated cost of attendance (COA), and any financial aid for which you are eligible, such as scholarships, grants, and federal loans/work study. What is Cost of Attendance (COA)? The [...]
The 2023-2024 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opened on October 1st! The FAFSA is a gateway to FREE money for college, but many families put off filing because they find it intimidating. Don't worry - it isn't that scary, and we can help you get ready to file. Our college [...]
Should I choose a fixed or variable rate? Fixed Interest Rate A fixed rate loan is exactly as it sounds – the interest rate is fixed, or stays the same, for the entire life of your loan. Pros: You’ll know what your interest rate is and won’t have to worry about [...]
When delving into the world of private student loans, you may discover that many lenders mention a “co-borrower.” A co-borrower is someone who applies for the loan with you and is equally responsible for ensuring it is repaid. A private student loan will be held in your name as the [...]
There is a lot of confusing language (and plenty of acronyms) when it comes to paying for college and financial aid. You may be surprised to know that "expected family contribution" or "EFC" is not necessarily the amount of money your family will actually end up paying your college. So [...]
The best way to pay for college is with FREE money (money you don't have to pay back once you graduate). This comes in the form of scholarships and grants. Grants are usually awarded through your college when you file the FAFSA. There are many sources of scholarship money, and [...]
If you're a college student headed home for winter break, your mind is likely on sleeping in, spending time with family, and opening gifts - not on tuition payments. However, second semester will be here before you know it. Many families have faced financial challenges over the past year and [...]
Is going to college and earning a degree really worth it? According to the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics, the answer is "yes." Earnings increase and unemployment rates decrease with education level. Their studies show: Workers with a bachelor’s degree had median weekly earnings of $1,305 in 2020, compared with [...]
Let’s face it – no one is accepted to college and thinks, “I can’t wait to pay my tuition bill!” College is a big investment, which is why it’s important to know your options, plan ahead, and choose wisely when paying for it. (Remember that filling out the FAFSA, which [...]
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