
Expertise
- Scholarly Article Reporting
- Free-Tuition Colleges
- Student Financial Aid
- College Closures
Education
- BA Journalism, BA Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Evan Castillo is a news reporter covering colleges and universities in North Carolina and beyond. He specializes in student-driven stories and speaks with researchers and university admins about studies regarding underserved populations.
Evan regularly updates our lists of colleges offering free tuition, recently closed colleges, and the largest donations to colleges and universities.
Evan joined BestColleges as an associate writer in 2022 after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a BA in Journalism and a BA in Psychology. As a student, he covered university policy and student stories in the student newspaper, The Daily Tar Heel.
While at BestColleges, Evan’s work has been featured in multiple news outlets, such as AOL, the Charlotte Observer, the Washington Post, Forbes, and the Miami Herald, as well as by schools like Purdue University, Ohio State University, and Gonzaga University. Two research journals highlighted his list of colleges requiring the COVID-19 vaccine.
Read Evan Castillo's Latest Articles

Accelerated Online Degree Programs for Working Adults
Finishing your degree fast while still working can be a challenge. Find programs that can help and tips to succeed.
March 6, 2026
Accelerated Online Associate Degree Programs
You can earn your online associate degree in just one year at these schools. Find out where to dive headfirst into your educational journey.
March 6, 2026
Trump Admin Moves to Cap Graduate Loans by Narrowing 'Professional Degree' Definitions. Here's What That Means for Students
The Education Department plans to narrow the “professional degree” definition under Trump’s loan reform, limiting aid for nursing, physician assistant, and social work grad students.
March 5, 2026
How to Get an Online Associate Degree in 6 Months
If you have existing college credits and complete an accelerated program, you might be able to earn an associate degree in six months. Check out some accelerated programs to get your degree as fast as possible.
March 2, 2026
2-Year Accelerated Bachelor's Degrees
Discover the top strategies for earning your bachelor’s degree in two years or less, including online programs, transfer credits, and accelerated courses.
February 24, 2026
