Sep 24, 2025 | College finances
When families receive a college “award letter,” it often feels like the final word on how much college will cost. But in reality, an award letter is not always what it seems. In fact, the term “award letter” itself lacks a standardized...
Sep 24, 2025 | Merit scholarships
Merit scholarships are often described as “free money for college.” But if you’re like most families, the real question isn’t what they are, but how to actually get one. Sure, you’ve heard of students getting tens of thousands of dollars...
Sep 15, 2025 | College students
For many college students — and their families — the question “Should I work in college?” comes up early and often. Rising tuition, everyday expenses, and concerns about student debt lead many to consider working part-time, full-time, or taking on work-study positions...
Sep 15, 2025 | College admissions
Every spring, thousands of college applicants across the country open their admissions emails with hope — only to find that they’ve been waitlisted. For many, this outcome is more confusing than a clear “yes” or “no.” So, what does it mean to be waitlisted, and what...
Sep 10, 2025 | College preparations
When students and families begin thinking about college, one of the most important — and often confusing — topics is understanding college requirements. These go far beyond just filling out an application and hitting submit. Colleges have a range of expectations —...
Sep 10, 2025 | College degrees
Planning for college is a journey filled with choices. One of the first questions families often face is: what kind of degree does my student need? Understanding the different levels of college degree is essential to making smart decisions about time, money, and...
Sep 3, 2025 | College work study
The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program has long been a valuable resource for college students, providing part-time employment to help pay for education expenses while gaining work experience. But in recent years, a series of legislative changes and budget proposals have...
Sep 3, 2025 | College planning
Planning for college doesn’t start senior year—and it shouldn’t. From building a strong academic record in 9th grade to reviewing financial aid offers in 12th, a well-structured college planning checklist can reduce stress and maximize outcomes for students and...
Aug 28, 2025 | College admissions
College is one of the biggest investments a family will ever make. Yet too many students and parents assume the only way to afford higher education is by taking on mountains of debt. That doesn’t have to be the case. With the right strategies, you can reduce costs...
Aug 28, 2025 | College admissions
When it comes to paying for college, two financial aid forms matter more than any others: the FAFSA/CSS Profile. These forms determine how much need-based and institutional aid students receive, shaping everything from federal grants to private college scholarships....
