For years, the Grad PLUS loan program served as the financial bridge between what federal aid covered and what advanced degrees actually cost. That bridge is going away. Few policy changes have rattled graduate financing quite like this one: new Grad PLUS borrowing stops, full stop, and the students caught in the transition range from brand-new applicants to people halfway …
Debt Relief Scams 101: How Student Borrowers Can Outsmart Fake Offers
Earning a college degree is a smart investment but managing loan repayment after graduation requires careful attention. With so many legitimate refinancing and repayment options, it’s easy to get confused, and scammers take advantage of that. The good news is that spotting fake ‘debt relief’ or ‘forgiveness’ offers is easier than you might think. Knowing what to look for can …
4 Myths About Private Student Loan Cosigners
Many students pay for college by using a mix of savings, scholarships, and loans. With private student loans, borrowers may need a cosigner, someone who can help them qualify and possibly get better loan terms. Rather than being risky, cosigning can be a smart way to support a student’s goals and help them start building credit. What a Cosigner Really …
Turning Pocket Change into Payoff: A College Guide
Heading off to college is an exciting prospect for many first-time students — but it can also come with some growing pains. For many college students venturing out on their own, figuring out how to pay for college and being responsible with money is easier said than done. The good news? With a few practical tips in mind, you’ll be …
SAVE Plan Ends: 8 Key Steps for Borrowers
If you’re one of the 7.7 million on the SAVE plan, you should be aware that it’s ending. Recent changes from the new bill may feel discouraging, but taking steps now helps protect your credit, finances, and emotional well-being. Before diving into the action steps, let’s clarify what the SAVE Plan actually is. The SAVE Plan (Saving on a Valuable …
On Campus vs. Off Campus: How Your Housing Choice Impacts FAFSA
Choosing to live on or off campus is more than just a lifestyle decision; it can also impact your financial aid. Many students rely on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for loans, grants, and work-study programs. However, few realize that it also factors in your living arrangement while at school. Whether you stay …
Big News for Borrowers: FAFSA Opens Early for 2026-27
The U.S. Department of Education has made a major move to help college-bound students and their families: the 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is open earlier this year, starting with a beta test for select users and a phased rollout for everyone. This means you might be able to get a head start on securing crucial college …
How the “Big Beautiful Bill” Will Affect Your Student Loans
Change is coming to federal student loans, and whether you’re a current borrower, planning for college, or helping your kids pay for school, the “Big Beautiful Bill” is about to reshape the rules. Here’s what’s changing, what isn’t, and how you can plan ahead to protect your financial future. 🚦 Big Dates to Remember July 2026: New rules for borrowing …
Federal Loan Interest Rates Are Lower – But Are They the Right Choice for You?
Good news: starting July 1st the interest rate for Federal Loans is lower than the borrowing rate for Academic Year 2024-25. This year, students will be charged 6.39% and parents will pay 8.94% for Federal Direct and Federal Direct Plus Loans respectively. The Origination Fees are unchanged for each: 1.057% for Direct Loans and 4.228% for Plus Loans. Students and …
Protect Your College Savings from Inflation with a 529 Prepaid Plan
Saving a Dollar Today is Better than Borrowing One Tomorrow®. But, HOW should you save? Over 17 million families have saved more than $500 billion in 529 saving plans and another $26 billion in prepaid 529 plans. Unlike the better-known savings plans, prepaid tuition plans allow families to lock in current tuition rates for future use. This article compares 529 …