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...
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...
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...
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...
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....
Earning a merit scholarship can be a game-changer in making college affordable. These awards, based on academic performance, leadership, community involvement, and other achievements—not financial need—can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. While not all...
Applying for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is one of the most important steps families can take to reduce college costs. Yet many students and parents unknowingly leave thousands of dollars on the table each year by making...
For many students, college decisions bring excitement, relief, or sometimes disappointment. But another result often causes confusion: being waitlisted. What does it mean to be waitlisted—and what can you or your student do about it? Being waitlisted isn’t the end of...
Higher education is often discussed, but what does it really mean to earn a college degree? For students and families navigating their options, understanding this concept is essential. A college degree is more than a piece of paper; it can be a powerful tool for...
When families begin the college financial planning process, one number carries significant weight: the Student Aid Index (SAI). With recent FAFSA changes and a shift in financial aid calculations, many families now encounter the term "estimated SAI" early in the...
Navigating the college decision process is both exciting and stressful—especially when financial aid award letters start arriving in your inbox. At first glance, it might seem like you can simply compare the total amounts and choose the biggest offer. But in reality,...
If your family is planning for college, one of the earliest and most strategic decisions to make is how and when to apply. Should your student choose Early Decision or Early Action? What’s the difference—and how will this choice affect admission odds, financial aid,...