Category: Paying for College

Everything You Need to Know about the CSS Profile

What is the CSS Profile? The College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile is an online application that colleges and scholarship programs use to give out non-federal aid. Hundreds of colleges require you to fill out the CSS Profile and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). College Board provides this service as well as the ... Everything You Need to Know about the CSS Profile

Read More

3 Types of College Scholarships

Paying for college is a huge concern for many students. A high sticker price may be enough to discourage students from applying. If you're wondering about how you'll pay for college, remember the sticker price is the cost before financial aid is applied. 

Read More

Unpacking the FAFSA Verification Process

If you’re selected for FAFSA verification, it doesn’t mean you or your family did anything wrong. Verification simply confirms that the data reported on your financial aid application is accurate. About ⅓ of applicants are selected for verification, some at random, and some because of mismatched information on your FAFSA that needs further explanation.  Here ... Unpacking the FAFSA Verification Process

Read More

3 Ways to Make College More Affordable

If you’re dreaming about going to college but nervous about the cost, we’re here to help! Here are just a few of the ways you can make college more affordable. Understand the Difference Between Sticker Price and Net Price When you start looking at college costs, the first thing to understand is the difference between ... 3 Ways to Make College More Affordable

Read More

Financial Aid Packages 101

For many students, the financial aid package is a huge factor in determining which college they’ll attend. Financial aid packages differ by school, but the types of awards are similar. If you understand the awards, you can decide what financial aid package works best for you. Here are three important terms to remember: Cost of ... Financial Aid Packages 101

Read More

A Crash Course in Admissions and Financial Aid

As you fill out financial aid forms and compare financial aid packages, you’ll probably see some unfamiliar terminology. While most terminology is universal across US colleges, some terms are unique to specific colleges. Don’t be afraid to ask your high school or admissions counselor about acronyms or processes. They want you to be as informed ... A Crash Course in Admissions and Financial Aid

Read More

Your Guide to the FAFSA as a First-Time Applicant

The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is an important part of the college application process. Once you submit the application, you’ll be considered for financial aid from federal and state governments and many colleges and universities. The 2024-25 FAFSA is now available. It’s a good idea to complete the FAFSA as early ... Your Guide to the FAFSA as a First-Time Applicant

Read More

4 Things You Can Do Now to Make College More Affordable

It’s no surprise that college can be expensive. The cost of tuition, books, fees, and living expenses and room and board, can add up. The good news is, college is much more affordable if you plan ahead. But even if you’re in your final years of high school, there are still plenty of things you ... 4 Things You Can Do Now to Make College More Affordable

Read More

5 Reasons to Choose the Affordable College

If you’re experiencing pressure to choose a college, you’re not alone! When you factor in cost, the choice gets even more confusing. If you’re caught between choosing your dream school with little to no financial aid or a more affordable school further down your list, here are five reasons to choose the more affordable college ... 5 Reasons to Choose the Affordable College

Read More

Cutting Costs in the College Search and Application Process

If you’re unsure how you’ll pay for the costs associated with the college search and application process, you’re not alone! Thankfully, there are ways to help offset these costs. We’ve highlighted some areas where you’ll see fees and some resources that will help offset the costs. Some of these resources can be utilized by all ... Cutting Costs in the College Search and Application Process

Read More