college-planning-center

College Planning

How to Build a Positive Digital Footprint Before Applying to College

Learn how to manage your digital footprint effectively before applying to college and present the best version of yourself online.

College Planning

Why Cosigning a Student Loan Can Benefit Students and Families

Learn key considerations for parents deciding whether to cosign a student loan, including financial responsibility, career paths, and repayment plans.

College Planning

College Check-In: What Juniors Should Be Doing Right Now

Stay on track this May with key tips for high school juniors -- college prep, financial planning, and next steps made simple and stress-free.

College Planning

Our Best Interview Tips to Help You Land the Job

Ace your next job interview with complete guide covering research, preparation, body language and tips to help you stand out & succeed in any interview.

College Planning

Denied Student Loan Refinancing? Here’s What to Do Next

Learn why student loan refinancing applications get denied and discover practical steps to take next to improve your chances of approval.

College Planning

To Refi or Not to Refi Your Student Loans

What to consider If you are thinking of refinancing or consolidating your federal or private student loans.

College Planning

Becoming Your Own Boss in College

Learn how to manage your time, set boundaries, and prioritize health to succeed in college and beyond. Discover tips for becoming your own boss in college.

College Planning

How to Protect Yourself: Your Identity Theft Questions, Answered

Learn what identity theft is, common scams like phishing, and practical steps to protect your personal, financial, and online information.

College Planning

Can AI Help with Student Scholarships?

Explore how AI is changing the scholarship application process and learn tips for parents to help their children navigate this new landscape effectively.

College Planning

The Value of Volunteering

Highlight the importance of volunteering in boosting college applications and career prospects with valuable skills and networking opportunities. Discover where to find fulfilling volunteer roles.

College Planning

Who Should Write My College Letters of Recommendation?

Learn who should write your college recommendation letters and how to choose the best recommenders to enhance your college application.

College Planning

Scholarship Basics, Let's Break It Down

Learn the basics of scholarships, the types available, the necessary documentation, and tips to avoid scams. This will help you maximize your chances of obtaining financial aid for college.

College Planning

More to Consider When Considering Community College

Discover why community college is a smart, flexible, and affordable choice for students seeking quality education and career readiness without the hefty price tag.

College Planning

The Scholarship Search: What I would have done differently.

Tips and advice on how to effectively search and apply for scholarships, emphasizing organization, essay-required scholarships, meeting deadlines, and exploring diverse sources.

College Planning

Navigating College Decision Letters

Navigate college decision letters with ease. Learn what acceptance, waitlisting, and rejection mean for your future and make informed decisions about your college journey.

College Planning

College Planning Isn’t Over After Hitting Submit: Here’s What Comes Next

Submitting your college application is just the beginning. Learn what steps to take next to ensure you're fully prepared for the college admissions process.

College Planning

College Planning Tips and Timeline for High School Juniors

College planning tips for high school juniors, including a month-by-month timeline, college fair visits, virtual tours, and free counseling from the RISLA College Planning Center.

College Planning

Exploring the Benefits of Parent PLUS Loan Refinancing

Discover the advantages of refinancing your Parent PLUS loans and how it can help you save money and simplify your finances.

College Planning

Questions to ask about student loans if you need to borrow.

Borrowing responsibly for college is the key. Be sure to ask questions.

College Planning

College Entrance and Exit Counseling - What to expect

Taking on student loan debt is a big responsibility and there may have been some fine print you may have missed. That’s where entrance and exit counseling comes in.

College Planning

Discover the Benefits of a Summer Internship

Uncover the advantages of participating in a summer internship program and how it can boost your career prospects.

College Planning

You Should Attend a College Fair and Here's Why

College fairs are a great way to start off your college planning process.

College Planning

College Planning Tips for August

Prepare for college application season, with RISLA's college planning tips for August.

College Planning

4 Tips for Your Scholarship Search

Scholarships are a great way to help pay for college and scholarships do not have to be paid back. Learn more about where to look for scholarships and start your search sooner rather than later.

College Planning

Compare Financial Aid Offers with Caution

If finances are helping to form your final decision about which college to attend, be sure you are reviewing your financial aid offer carefully and not just looking at the bottom line, which could be missing something.