 FAFSA season has just started and I’ve already met lots of new and interesting clients! I’m noticing that most of my clients are facing unique challenges but yet all share something in common. They all ask:
“My situation is so unusual! How do I fill out the financial aid forms when my income from 2018 isn’t accurate based on my circumstances?!?”  When our children are applying to college, our thoughts usually turn to the thousands of dollars that an undergraduate education will cost. Add the cost of a Graduate degree to the cost of a Bachelor’s and we could be talking about half a million dollars!!!
With that in mind, we all would like to save a few dollars when possible, right? But you’re thinking… “My child has average grades. He just did ok on his ACT and SAT. She didn’t take many AP courses this year.” It’s still possible for your child to be awarded Merit Scholarships (that have nothing to do with financial need)!!! And the best time to look is before you or your child even applies to college! Yes, that is correct! You will not qualify for merit scholarships if you do not apply to the schools that are offering them. So then what???  People always ask me if they should apply for financial aid when sending their children to school. My answer is always a resounding YES!!!
Some people will argue and say “But we earn too much money! Our family won’t get any aid.” That may be true. Maybe your family does earn “too much” money and your family will not qualify for Need based aid. But what about Merit based aid???  10 Ways To Save Money On College Costs
While college costs are continually rising, many families search for ways to control costs while still ensuring a quality education for their child. Below, are ten ways in which families are able to reduce expenses, minimize a reduction to their retirement accounts and lower the dollar amount of loans needed to fill the gap.  Early Action Vs. Early Decision
What’s The Difference? Does it matter??? It may be that both you and your child have your hearts set on one particular university. You both want to apply Early Decision figuring that your child has his/her best chance at an early acceptance. But wait! Should you apply ED?  The ABC Lingo Of Applying To College
The time is almost here! Your child will be applying to college and that most likely also includes applying for financial aid. During the process you will come across tons of acronyms: FAFSA, SAR, COA. While reading these for the first time can feel overwhelming, it is important to get comfortable with them. Below is a primer so that you and your child can get ready to send in those college applications  Divorce and College - What You Should Know
Along with divorce, comes lots of worry. The children, finances, career, family and friends and so on…. Since divorce happens both when the kids are little as well as when the kids are fully grown, it is important to consider the logistical and financial considerations of sending children to college. |
AuthorCollege Financial Prep provides families with cost saving strategies, scholarship research and financial aid preparation. Contact College Financial Prep today at 516-225-5224! Archives
December 2019
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