There are plenty of popular blogs that focus on student loan topics like how to find the best interest rates, the pros and cons of co-signing for your child’s loan, how to use specialized calculators to plan repayment, where to apply for the best deals, and more. The better blogs in this category employ user-friendly themes that allow for simple interaction, are easy on the eyes, and draw us in with their clever, entertaining designs. But the core content on these niche sites is ultimately helpful for anyone seeking to fund a college or graduate school education. You can learn a lot in the blogosphere when it comes to financing your own, or your child’s education.
Here are some of the best lessons currently being discussed on the best of the best loan-related blogs.
How to Apply
It can be confusing for newcomers to fill out a multi-page funding application. Many go into detail, with high-resolution graphics, about how to fill out these sometimes-complex forms. You’ll learn that some lenders don’t use paper forms at all but employ online processes to gather information from applicants. Either way, if you need guidance with this chore, head to your favorite niche blog and find out how to navigate the landscape.
The Advantages of Being a Co-Signer
Many parents co-sign on their children’s contracts when the time comes to borrow for college. This happens for a number of reasons, primarily because older teens don’t have an established credit score. But some parents do so in order to make the process, and acceptance chances, easier for their college-bound children. In fact, when you put your own signature next to theirs, you’re helping your youngsters earn the degrees that will make their dreams come true. If you have confidence in their ability to study and earn good grades, you won’t be putting yourself at financial risk being a student loan cosigner because they’ll be highly employable upon graduation.
Deciding How Much to Borrow
Some people opt to apply for the largest loan they can qualify for, which usually covers tuition, books, room, board, and fees. But if you have some savings tucked away for the cause, consider funding a percentage of your degree. That way, you’ll automatically eliminate perhaps a year or two of your repayment period, enjoy lower monthly payments, and will feel less of a financial burden upon graduation.
Shopping for Grants
Closely tied to the topic of borrowing money for school is the active grant market. If you’re willing to spend some time and a small amount of money for professional help, it’s likely you will be able to locate at least one grant. This is money that you never have to pay back, which is the very best kind! Before you begin hunting for grants, narrow your focus a bit by checking for donors who specialize in various subjects, like music study, engineering, or health care careers. If you or your child is headed into a nursing program, for example, begin your grant search among the many organizations that sponsor nursing majors.
