Federal vs. Private Student Loans: Compare Key Differences
Federal student loans offer payment relief and forgiveness options that are not available for private loans.
States With Free College Programs
A roundup of state-sponsored, tuition-free college scholarship programs.
Student Loan Repayment Plans: Recent Changes, Current Options
Student loan repayment options underwent major changes on July 1, 2026. Here's what to know.
Can a Student Loan Lawyer Help Me?
A student loan lawyer can analyze your debt troubles and fight on your behalf if you’re being sued.
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Do Student Loans Affect Your Credit Score?
If you pay on time, student loans can help your credit score. But missteps can hurt it.
Should You Refinance Student Loans? What to Know Before You Decide
Refinancing can lower your interest rate and simplify your payments, but it's not the right move for everyone — especially if you have federal loans.
Filling Out the FAFSA: I’m a Citizen, But My Parents or Spouse Are Undocumented Immigrants
Here’s how U.S. citizen students with undocumented parents can submit the 2026-27 FAFSA.
Filling Out the FAFSA: My Parent Has Died
You don’t need to report your deceased parent’s income on the FAFSA, but you do need to report your living parent's income.
Filling Out the FAFSA: My Parents are Divorced or Separated
If your parents are divorced, the parent who provided the most financial support in the last year will contribute to your FAFSA.
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Filling Out the FAFSA: My Parents Are Married
If your parents are married and file taxes jointly, only one of them needs to contribute to your FAFSA.
Student Loan Deferment vs. Forbearance: Which Payment Pause Is Better?
If you qualify for deferment, it’s a better option than forbearance — but neither is an ideal long-term solution. New limits will begin in 2027.
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Veterans: 5 Ways to Maximize Your GI Bill Benefits
Vets can maximize their GI Bill benefits by picking the right class schedule and school and filling out the FAFSA.
How to Pay for Grad School in 2026
When paying for grad school, take advantage of money you don’t have to repay before turning to loans.
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What to Do If You’re Selected for FAFSA Verification
Fewer students will be selected for FAFSA verification in 2024-25.
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What Is the Federal Student Aid Estimator?
The tool formerly known as the FAFSA4caster can estimate how much federal financial aid you might get for college.
CSS Profile vs. FAFSA: How Are They Different?
All schools accept the FAFSA for federal aid, but only some accept the CSS Profile for state and institutional aid.
Guide to Grants for College
Grants are offered by the federal government, states and colleges to help lower-income students pay for school.
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Federal Student Loan Servicers: Who They Are and What They Do
Your student loan servicer manages all of your federal loan payments until your debt is repaid. Sometimes, the government may reassign you to a new servicer when servicer contracts expire.
How to Read a Financial Aid Award Letter
Financial aid award letters could have different language for grants, scholarships, work-study and loans.
What Is the Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan for Federal Student Loans?
Income-Contingent Repayment is the least generous income-driven plan, and it will be ending July 2028.
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