The Federal Pell Grant remains the cornerstone of college affordability for low- and moderate-income families. Each year, millions of students rely on Pell funding to help pay for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. But in recent years, the rules governing Pell...
When it comes to filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), accuracy is everything. But just as important as knowing what to report is understanding what not to include. Too often, families overreport their financial assets by including retirement...
Filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is one of the most important steps families can take to reduce the cost of college. Yet too many students and parents miss out on thousands of dollars in aid due to avoidable errors, poor timing, or a lack of...
It’s a question we hear often at College Benefits Research Group (CBRG): "What could disqualify me from financial aid?" For families counting on assistance to make college affordable, the idea of losing eligibility or being denied aid outright is understandably...
Every year, millions of families fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), hoping to secure financial support for college. Yet despite its importance, the FAFSA remains one of the most misunderstood and mismanaged parts of the college planning...
In today’s competitive admissions environment, students and parents often wonder: What really stands out to college admissions officers? Is it perfect grades, a mile-long list of extracurriculars, or an award-winning essay? The truth is, no single element guarantees...
Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and their family will make. With over 4,000 colleges and universities in the United States alone, the process can feel overwhelming. But understanding what truly matters when evaluating your options...
Each year, top colleges receive tens of thousands of applications from high-achieving students. With many applicants having similar GPAs, test scores, and extracurriculars, standing out is harder—and more essential—than ever. What makes one student’s application rise...
The college search process can feel like navigating a maze. With thousands of schools and even more data points, how can families determine the right fit? The answer often lies in the questions you ask. The best college admissions questions are not just about...
For many American families, college debt has become an expected part of higher education. But it doesn’t have to be. With the right financial strategy, careful planning, and the help of experienced college advisors, it’s entirely possible to earn a degree without...
Residency Requirements Living in the state for 12–24 consecutive months Demonstrating financial independence (earning enough to cover tuition and living expenses without parental help) Obtaining a driver’s license, registering to vote, and paying state taxes Not...
For many families navigating the college admissions process, one of the earliest—and most stressful—questions is deceptively simple: how many college applications should we send? Some students apply to only a handful of schools, while others submit ten or more...