If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the FAFSA, you're not alone. Every year, thousands of New Jersey families face the same confusing forms, conflicting information, and high-stakes decisions—wondering if they're doing it right or leaving money on the table. The good...
CBRG Blog
Are College Planning Services Worth It? How Expert Guidance Helps Families Save Money and Stress
With college costs rising and the application process growing more competitive, families are asking: Are college planning services really worth it? The answer for many is yes—especially for those navigating the complex intersection of admissions and financial aid....
College Planning in NJ: A Complete Guide for Families Who Want Better Outcomes and Lower Costs
The college admissions landscape has changed dramatically—and families across New Jersey are feeling the pressure. With rising tuition, confusing financial aid rules, and increased competition for selective schools, smart college planning isn’t just helpful—it’s...
College Essay Coaching in NJ: Why Your Student Needs a Standout Personal Statement
The college essay isn’t just another task on the checklist—it’s one of the most critical parts of a student’s application. In today’s increasingly competitive and test-optional admissions landscape, a standout personal statement can significantly boost a student’s...
FAFSA Help in NJ: How to Avoid Mistakes and Maximize Aid in 2026
Filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is one of the most important steps for New Jersey families planning to pay for college. Yet each year, thousands of students miss out on financial aid opportunities due to preventable mistakes, missed...
What Is College Advising—And Why It’s the Secret to a Smarter College Investment
College is one of the largest investments families make—second only to buying a home. Yet many navigate the application process without expert guidance, leading to missed deadlines, limited financial aid, and decisions based more on emotion than strategy. That’s where...
The Ultimate Guide to Scholarships in New Jersey: What Families Need to Know in 2026
For New Jersey families planning for college in 2026, finding reliable ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs is more important than ever. Scholarships represent one of the best—and most underutilized—opportunities to offset rising tuition costs without taking on student...
College Admissions Help: 7 Ways Families Can Reduce Stress and Improve Outcomes
For many families, the college admissions process is one of the most stressful periods of high school. Between college applications, essays, testing, financial aid, and looming deadlines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Add in the pressure of trying to get into the...
What Are Strong Arguments for a Financial Aid Appeal?
When the initial financial aid offer from a college falls short, many families consider submitting an appeal. But the success of that appeal hinges on one critical factor: the strength and validity of the argument being made. Not all financial concerns qualify for...
What Do Colleges Look for in an Appeal Letter?
When families face financial circumstances that make the original aid package insufficient, they often consider writing an appeal. But one key question quickly arises: What exactly do colleges want to see in an appeal letter? A well-crafted letter can be the...
Does FAFSA Usually Accept Appeals?
Families facing an unaffordable college bill often ask a direct and urgent question: Does FAFSA usually accept appeals? The short answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. FAFSA itself does not approve or deny appeals. Instead, appeals are reviewed by individual...
What Are the Two Types of 529 Plans?
A 529 plan is one of the most powerful tools families can use to prepare for the cost of college. These tax-advantaged accounts are specifically designed to help parents, grandparents, and other family members save for future education expenses. But not all 529 plans...











