Our blog is designed to provide information regarding some of the critical topics those with student loans must be aware of to be able to make educated decisions regarding their future.
Interest rates for federal student loans dropped to all-time lows for the 2020-2021 school year. Borrowing from the federal government to cover educational costs is now cheaper than ever before. Let’s take a look at the 2021 federal student loan interest rates, how interest rates for federal student loans work, and a few student loan interest rate FAQs.…
Continue Reading ->You borrow federal student loans from the government, but the Department of Education doesn’t service those loans. Instead, that duty is contracted out to qualified financial companies and loan servicers. The loan servicers collect your payments and provide customer service. The Department of Education still oversees the federal student loan program, though. So, they’re responsible for handling contracts,…
Continue Reading ->Thinking about purchasing your first home? It might be more doable and more affordable than you’d think. Qualifying first-time homebuyers have access to special mortgage products that other homebuyers don’t. You may even be able to finance your first residence without any down payment. Below, we’ll walk you through first-time homebuyers loans (FTHB), including their benefits and what…
Continue Reading ->7.7 million students were expected to attend a college or university part-time in fall 2020. Attending college part-time just makes sense for a lot of students, especially if you’re hoping to avoid student loans. Part-time students take fewer courses each semester, so their bill isn’t as high. Fortunately, as a part-time student, you might still qualify for federal…
Continue Reading ->College is expensive. For the 2019 to 2020 academic year, families reported paying an average of $30,017 on higher education expenses. Given the steep cost, it’s no wonder that parents need to borrow to help support their child’s educational endeavors. If that’s you, you’re probably thinking about borrowing a Parent Plus Loan—a loan product designed for parents that…
Continue Reading ->Whether you’re making plans for after your high school graduation or thinking about a career change, the question, should I attend community college? has likely crossed your mind. With good reason too. These two-year public colleges award associate degrees and certifications, help students finish general education courses and kickstart rewarding careers. Reasons to Attend Community College Associate Degree…
Continue Reading ->For the 2019 to 2020 school year, families in the U.S. spent an average of $30,017 on college. Some students lose out on some or all of that money when unforeseen circumstances force them to withdraw before finishing the academic term. While you can sometimes get a tuition refund from your school, it’s not guaranteed. It may not…
Continue Reading ->Paying off debt can feel overwhelming. Especially if you’re not sure where to start. That’s where a debt management plan like the debt snowball method can help. Below, we’ll cover an overview of the debt snowball method, how it works, how it’s beneficial, and an alternative. What is the Debt Snowball Method? Did you ever make a snowman…
Continue Reading ->You finally have your financial aid award letters…but wait! Why are there two types of federal student loans listed? Apparently, you’re eligible to receive subsidized student loans and unsubsidized student loans from the federal government through the Direct Loan program. If you’re wondering, should I borrow subsidized or unsubsidized student loans, the answer is this: prioritize subsidized, but…
Continue Reading ->Trade school—also referred to as a technical school, a vocational school, or a vocational college—prepares students for a specific occupation. Common trade school programs include nursing, dental hygiene, locksmithing, culinary arts, automotive technician training, cosmetologist, and information technology. Depending on the program, you can earn a trade certificate or an associate degree. If you’re headed to trade school,…
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