Beyond Grades: What Actually Helped Students Win More Merit Aid and Scholarships
We asked parents in our Paying for College 101 Facebook group what factors — beyond grades — made the biggest…
A Different Approach to College Admissions: Less Stress, More Savings
Editor’s Note: This originally appeared as a post in our private Facebook group called Paying for College 101. Retired admissions director and…
Transfer Merit Scholarships at Small Private Colleges: 70 Schools Worth Checking Out
Editor’s Note: This originally appeared as a post in our private Facebook group called Paying for College 101. Retired admissions director and…
How to Pay for College: A Complete Guide to Every Option Available to Your Family
This story was first published in our Paying for College 101 Facebook community. It’s been edited for clarity and flow. College is…
From Broadway to the Operating Room: What Arts Majors Do After College
If your student is passionate about theater, music, or art, you’ve probably asked yourself — or them — the question…
We Applied to 24 BFA Acting Programs. Here’s Everything We Spent, Every School We Tried, and What We’d Do Differently
One Massachusetts mom in our Paying for College 101 Facebook group shared an inside look at what it really takes…
A Parent’s Year-by-Year Guide to College Planning (Middle School to Senior Year)
This story was first published in our Paying for College 101 Facebook community. It’s been edited for clarity and flow. My third—and…
The New Ivies in 2026: Academics, Admissions and Affordability
If you’re considering colleges, the “New Ivies” present strong options. Use this guide to explore and compare them by academics,…
Parent PLUS Loan vs. Private Student Loan: Which Is Right for Your Family?
When federal grants, scholarships, and your student’s Direct loans still leave a funding gap, most families face the same fork…
What Are Private Student Loans for College?
As your student looks at options to finance a college education, you may be struggling to keep everything straight. There…
Parent PLUS Loan Limits: What Every Family Needs to Know
Parent PLUS loans now have annual and lifetime borrowing caps for new borrowers. If your family has relied on Parent…
How Do Student Loans Work: Guide to Federal, State and Private College Loans
Students and parents often must borrow money to help pay college tuition and other educational expenses. However, understanding how student…