Oct 29, 2025 | College planning
Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions a student and their family will make. It goes far beyond rankings or brand recognition. The right college is one that fits the student academically, socially, and financially—and sets them up for success well...
Oct 29, 2025 | College admissions
For many high school students and parents, the college admissions process can feel like navigating a maze filled with unwritten rules, hidden criteria, and endless applications. One of the most common questions we hear at the College Benefits Research Group (CBRG) is:...
Oct 24, 2025 | College planning
The college planning landscape isn’t what it used to be Parents who attended college in the 1990s or early 2000s often approach the process for their kids with a familiar mindset: visit a few schools, take the SAT, fill out a couple applications, and wait for...
Oct 24, 2025 | College planning
The high stakes of college completion timing College is expensive. But what many families don’t anticipate is how much more expensive it becomes when a student takes five or six years to earn a degree instead of four. According to the National Center for Education...
Oct 13, 2025 | College planning
Planning for college isn’t just about choosing the right school—it’s also about understanding how to afford it. Many families are surprised by how complex the college costs conversation becomes, and how early they need to begin. From understanding net price to timing...
Oct 13, 2025 | College entrance exams
Preparing for college begins long before senior year. Junior year is the strategic sweet spot, especially when it comes to standardized testing. SAT and ACT scores remain a key component of college admissions and financial aid decisions. Beginning prep in junior year...
Oct 8, 2025 | College planning
Yes, You Can Stay Sane While Planning for College Between work deadlines, soccer practice, grocery runs, and trying to spend quality time together, many families already feel maxed out. Then comes college planning—a massive, time-sensitive process involving...
Oct 8, 2025 | College planning
Why the Financial Aid Timeline Matters More Than Ever College is one of the biggest financial investments a family will ever make—and how you approach the financial aid timeline can significantly impact your bottom line. Each year, thousands of families miss out on...
