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Mark Kantrowitz

Mark Kantrowitz is an expert on student financial aid, scholarships, 529 plans, and student loans. He has been quoted in more than 10,000 newspaper and magazine articles about college admissions and financial aid. Mark has written for the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Reuters, USA Today, MarketWatch, Money Magazine, Forbes, Newsweek, and Time. You can find his work on Student Aid Policy here.

Mark is the author of five bestselling books about scholarships and financial aid and holds seven patents. Mark serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Student Financial Aid, the editorial advisory board of Bottom Line/Personal, and is a member of the board of trustees of the Center for Excellence in Education. He previously served as a member of the board of directors of the National Scholarship Providers Association. Mark has two Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and philosophy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a Master's degree in computer science from Carnegie Mellon University (CMU).

Mark’s latest articles

This graphic visually represents the core concept of VA education benefits and military financial assistance for college. The image features a prominent stack of five books, with the top three in a warm orange hue and the bottom two in white, symbolizing the educational resources and learning involved. Above the books, a dark circular icon displays a white graduation cap, clearly indicating academic achievement and higher education. To the right of the book stack, another dark circular icon contains a white dollar sign, emphasizing the financial aspect of these benefits and scholarships. The background is a clean white, adorned with abstract geometric shapes in matching dark gray and orange tones, including plus signs, circles, and dotted rectangles, which add a modern, dynamic feel to the illustration, reinforcing the opportunities and funds available for servicemembers, spouses, children, and veterans seeking to take advantage of these vital programs. Source: The College Investor
March 26, 2024

What Is A Qualified Education Loan?

Qualified education loans are more than just federal student loans. But in order to claim the benefits, here’s what to know.

bungled FAFSA launch
March 18, 2024

Bungled FAFSA Launch Causes Big Drop In Number Of Applications

The bungled 2024-25 FAFSA launch has caused a significant drop in the number of applications for federal student aid. Here’s what’s at stake.

financial aid terminology
February 27, 2024

Financial Aid Terminology Trap: Understanding Need-Based Aid

Knowing the financial aid terminology can ensure that you understand exactly what your financial aid package is and how much college will truly cost.

FAFSA asset protection allowance
January 31, 2024

FAFSA Processing Delayed Until March

The Department of Education announced that processing of the FAFSA will be further delayed until March as it corrects the financial aid formula.

the end of the double consolidation loophole
January 21, 2024

Possible Major Student Loan Forgiveness Loophole In SAVE Plan

A potential student loan forgiveness loophole in the new SAVE plan could open the door for mass loan forgiveness.

What's New In Financial Aid For 2024
December 25, 2023

What’s New In Financial Aid For 2024

There are several big changes in 529s and students coming in next year. Here’s what new in financial aid for 2024.

Fafsa
December 13, 2023

New 2024-25 FAFSA Will Cause Millions Of Families To Receive Less Financial Aid

The new 2024-25 FAFSA has several issues that will cost millions of families thousands of dollars in financial aid.

odds of winning a scholarship are increasing
November 29, 2023

The Odds Of Winning A Scholarship Are Increasing

College remains an expensive proposition, but the odds of winning a scholarship are increasing. Here’s what you need to know. Learn more.

An abstract financial illustration features a prominent black bank icon with classical columns, positioned centrally on a mustard-yellow and white background. A white speech bubble containing a question mark floats above the bank, symbolizing the complex questions families face regarding college financing. To the left, a white dollar sign inside a rounded white square hovers over a black graduation cap, representing student loan options and costs. The background is adorned with various geometric patterns, including black and white dots, thin black lines, a hollow circle, and a triangle, adding to the dynamic and modern feel of the image. This visual metaphor highlights the challenges and choices involved in navigating the seven different types of student loans and financing alternatives available for college and graduate school, as discussed in the article. Source: The College Investor
November 4, 2023

Student Loan Servicer Errors Leave Borrowers Scrambling

Student loan servicer errors stymie the restart of repayment and leave millions of borrowers confused about their loans.

Student Loan Forgiveness
November 3, 2023

Government Issues Second Proposal For Student Loan Forgiveness

The Department of Education released draft language for their proposal for student loan forgiveness. Here’s what to know.

differences in 529 plans
September 27, 2023

Why Does Each State Have Different 529 Plan Rules?

Saving for college is complicated in America because there are different 529 plan rules that are set by each state.

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Expertise

  • Financial Aid
  • Student Loans
  • Scholarships
  • 529 Plans
  • FAFSA

Education

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Philosophy
  • Carnegie Mellon University, Master of Science in Computer Science

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