Pay for College

For high school juniors, senior year is right around the corner! But before you get too caught up in the excitement of graduation, let’s talk about something that’s just as important: college financial aid. If you think financial aid prep starts in the fall of senior year, think again! It’s never too early to start getting ready for college financial aid applications. Here’s a few things you can do as you transition to being a high school senior to help prepare for your college journey!  Research Scholarships Early Scholarships are a great option when it comes to easing the cost of college. As a junior, you’re in the perfect spot to start hunting for those opportunities. Many scholarships have deadlines before senior year even starts, so the earlier you start, the better. You don’t want to be scrambling for a scholarship essay while everyone else is wrapping up their final assignments. Set aside time each week to search for scholarships. You’ll be surprised how many scholarships are out there for things you never even thought about—like specific majors, extracurriculars, or even your background! Here are more tips on finding scholarships. Get Familiar with the FAFSA The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is your golden ticket to need-based financial aid. While the FAFSA doesn’t open until October 1st of your senior year, it’s never too early to get familiar with the process. Take some time now to understand what documents you’ll need. This way, you won’t be scrambling to gather tax forms, bank statements, and other documents when it’s go-time. Have a Family Talk About Finances Talking about finances can feel awkward, but it’s crucial to have an open conversation with your parents or guardians about paying for college. What are they expecting from financial aid? What are they able to contribute? This conversation will help you set realistic expectations and prepare your financial aid forms accurately. Also, talking early means no surprises later when you’re sorting through offers and comparing colleges. The more you know upfront, the smoother the entire process will be. Get Your Grades in Gear Let’s talk about the obvious—your grades. A strong academic record is essential for receiving both financial aid and scholarships. Many scholarships, like those based on merit, will look at your GPA, test scores, and class rank. If you’re aiming for those awards, make sure you’re staying on top of your coursework and making the most of any study resources available. Also, don’t forget about your senior year grades! Financial aid and scholarships may consider your final GPA, so it’s important to finish strong. Consider College Costs Thinking about college can be overwhelming. The price tags on some schools might seem scary, but the good news is there are options! Research the costs of schools you’re interested in and think about how much aid you might need. Cost of attendance includes more than just tuition—it also covers room and board, books, fees, and personal expenses. Start considering how you’ll pay for it all, and keep in mind that financial aid packages can vary by school. Keep an Eye on Deadlines Mark down deadlines for everything: the FAFSA, scholarship applications, and even college admissions. Senior year is fast-paced, and missing a deadline could mean missing out on money you could’ve gotten. Keeping an organized calendar or planner with all your important dates will make life so much easier. Here’s some of my tips on application deadlines!  So, while your friends may be focused on that summer vacation, you’re getting ahead by planning your financial aid strategy. It’s all about the little steps now that will make a big difference later. When the time comes for senior year, you’ll be ready to roll—and you’ll be in a much better spot to handle the stress of applications and deadlines. The earlier you prep, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to apply for financial aid. Want more personalized help paying for college? Now Enrolling: College Financial Aid Advising for the Class of 2026-2027! I’m excited to announce that sign-ups are now open for the next class of college-bound students and returning students! If your family will be navigating the financial aid process for the 2026-2027 academic year, now is the time to secure your spot. Spaces are limited, so reach out today to reserve your place and ensure you have expert guidance every step of the way. More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

As a high school student preparing for college, one of the most exciting—and sometimes stressful—moments is receiving your financial aid packages. Colleges often send out different offers with varying amounts of financial support, and it can be tricky to figure out which one is the best deal for you. With tuition and other expenses quickly adding up, it’s crucial to compare your options carefully.  Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision about your college financial aid package. 1. Look at the Total Cost of Attendance (COA) The first thing you’ll want to compare is the Total Cost of Attendance (COA) for each college. This includes tuition, room and board, textbooks, fees, transportation, and personal expenses. Each school might have a different COA, and it’s important to see the full picture before you decide.  2. Focus on Grants and Scholarships  Grants and scholarships are the best forms of financial aid because you don’t have to pay them back. They’re considered “free money,” and they should be a major factor when comparing packages. If one school is offering a larger grant, that’s free money you don’t have to worry about repaying, and it can make a huge difference in the total cost of attendance. 3. Understand Loans  Loans are another part of your financial aid package that you need to take seriously. Unlike grants and scholarships, loans must be paid back—often with interest. When comparing offers, look closely at how much you’re being offered in student loans. Also, pay attention to the interest rates on loans. 4. Work-Study Jobs Work-study programs offer part-time jobs on campus that allow you to earn money while you’re in school. This can be a great way to offset some of your costs, but it’s important to realistically assess how many hours you can work while balancing your studies. When comparing work-study offers, check the amount of money you’ll be able to earn and whether you feel comfortable fitting those work hours into your schedule. 5. Look for Additional Fees or Hidden Costs While you’re comparing aid packages, don’t forget to consider other costs that might not be included in the initial aid offer. Some schools have additional fees for things like technology, student health services, or parking.  6. Negotiate If Necessary If one school offers you more financial aid than another, or if your financial situation has changed since you first applied, don’t be afraid to reach out to the financial aid office. Many schools are open to negotiating aid packages, especially if you’ve received a better offer from a different school.  Choosing a college isn’t just about picking the right major or the coolest campus—it’s about finding an affordable option that makes sense for you and your family. By comparing financial aid packages carefully, you can ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible. Take your time to understand the details of each offer and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You’re making an important decision, and it’s worth doing the work to make sure you’re getting the most financial support for your education. More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

For students heading to college, there is an immense pressure that comes with managing academic responsibilities and trying to determine how to pay for school. For many, financial aid is crucial to making higher education accessible. But sometimes, the aid you initially receive may not fully meet your needs, or unexpected circumstances might affect your ability to pay. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry—here’s my guide to appealing financial aid offers to pay for college! 1.Understand Why You Need More Aid Before appealing for additional aid, it’s important to understand why you’re requesting it. Financial aid packages are usually based on a combination of factors such as family income, assets, and the cost of attendance. However, life events like changes in family income, unexpected medical expenses, or family emergencies can alter your financial situation after the initial aid offer. Knowing what has changed for your situation will allow you to better advocate for your appeal. 2. Review Your Financial Aid Package Thoroughly Review your current financial aid package carefully. This includes not only grants, scholarships, and loans but also any work-study opportunities or other forms of support. Make sure you understand the breakdown and whether there are any errors or discrepancies. It’s important to check that your family’s income and assets have been reported correctly and confirm you’re not eligible for other scholarships or loan programs. 3. Reach Out to the Financial Aid Office Once you’ve determined that you need additional aid, reach out to your school’s financial aid office. Don’t wait for them to come to you—proactively contacting them shows that you’re serious about addressing your financial situation. When you contact the office, ask them for the appropriate steps to take when submitting a financial aid appeal. 4. Craft a Well-Thought-Out Appeal Letter One of the most important parts of your appeal is the letter you send to the financial aid office. This letter is your opportunity to explain your situation, demonstrate your need, and ask for additional aid. A strong appeal letter should be clear, respectful, and detailed. 5. Provide Supporting Documentation Your financial aid office will likely require supporting documentation to validate your claim. This could include tax returns, pay stubs, medical bills, or other relevant paperwork. Make sure to provide all necessary documents, as this will make your case more credible. If you’ve experienced a significant life change, such as a job loss or a change in your family situation, include any official paperwork that supports your case. 6. Be Persistent and Follow Up Once your appeal is submitted, it’s important to follow up. Financial aid offices are often busy, and you want to ensure that your case is being reviewed. If you haven’t heard back after a few weeks, don’t hesitate to send a polite follow-up email asking about the status of your appeal. Be patient and understanding, but also be persistent. Appealing for more financial aid can feel daunting, but it’s important to remember that you’re your best advocate. Schools want to see students succeed, and they often have mechanisms in place to help those facing unexpected challenges. Financial aid is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and your situation is unique. Don’t be afraid to speak up and advocate for yourself. Your education and success are worth fighting for! More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

It’s no secret that college is expensive. Higher education becomes even more expensive when students receive their financial aid offers – and they’re smaller than everyone hoped. While opening those offers and realizing there’s a gap between what you can afford and what you’re given is frightening, it isn’t the end of your college journey. Here’s 6 things you can do when your college financial aid falls short of expectations:  1. Reassess your budget.  Start by taking a detailed look at your personal budget to see where you might be able to cut back. Prioritize essential expenses like tuition, books, and housing, while adjusting discretionary spending if possible. Consider cheaper housing options, meal plans, or transportation to reduce costs. This can free up funds for other areas of your education.  2. Understand Your Financial Aid Package Review your award letter carefully to ensure you’re fully understanding what’s offered—scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Sometimes, what looks like a shortfall could be due to misunderstood components of the package. Double-check the accuracy of your financial aid award. If you spot any mistakes or omissions, don’t hesitate to contact the financial aid office to correct them.  3. Contact Your School’s Financial Aid Office  If your financial situation has changed since you applied for aid (e.g., job loss, medical expenses), reach out to your school’s financial aid office to discuss a possible reevaluation of your financial aid package. The fires in LA this year may impact individual situations, so don’t hesitate to reach out if your ability to pay has changed!  Some schools allow students to appeal for additional aid if they can demonstrate extenuating circumstances. Be prepared to provide supporting documentation, such as a letter explaining your situation and any relevant financial documents. 4. Look for Additional Scholarships or Grants There are often many scholarships available that don’t require a full-time student status or are not widely advertised. Many colleges also have departmental or need-based scholarships that you may not have been aware of. Reach out to your academic department or student affairs office to inquire about these opportunities. 5. Consider Federal and Private Loan Options If you haven’t already, look into federal or private student loans. For many people, this is a last resort, but do your research carefully if you decide to go with loans. Be sure to compare terms, interest rates, and repayment plans. Borrow only what you truly need. 6. Look into Work-Study or Part-Time Jobs  If you’re eligible for federal work-study, take advantage of the opportunity to earn money while studying. These jobs are often on campus and designed to accommodate student schedules.If you don’t have work-study or are able to work beyond those hours, look for local part-time jobs or freelance opportunities to boost your income. Closing the gap between the offer you received and what you can pay feels daunting, but with some creativity and research, it is possible to pay for the college of your dreams!  More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

As a high school senior, you’re facing one of the biggest decisions of your life: where to go to college. But this decision isn’t just about choosing the school with the best programs, campus vibe, or student culture. It’s also about how to make it work financially. That’s where the timing of your college applications can have a big impact. While options like Early Action and Early Decision may sound appealing for getting a jumpstart on the admissions process, if financial aid is a priority for you, Regular Decision might be your best bet. Here’s why applying through Regular Decision gives you more time and flexibility to evaluate your financial aid options, compare offers from multiple schools, and make the best financial choice for you and your family. What Is Regular Decision? Regular Decision is the standard college application process. For most schools, the RD deadline falls in January (typically January 1st or 15th), and applicants usually receive their admissions decisions in March or April. Unlike Early Decision, which is binding, Regular Decision gives you time to consider multiple schools and financial aid offers before making your final commitment, which is due by May 1st. Why Regular Decision Gives You More Time to Compare Financial Aid Offers #1: Financial Aid Packages Arrive After Acceptance One of the most significant advantages of applying Regular Decision is that you’ll typically receive both your admission decision and your financial aid package around the same time (usually in March or April). This means you can compare not only the acceptance offers from multiple schools but also the financial aid packages that come with them. This timing is crucial for making a fully informed decision about which school fits your academic and financial needs. It ensures you can weigh all options side-by-side, allowing you to pick the best value for your family. #2. You Can Apply to Multiple Schools and Compare Offers Unlike Early Action, where you might only have one offer to evaluate, applying Regular Decision gives you the freedom to apply to multiple schools. After receiving your acceptance and financial aid packages, you can compare the offers from different schools to determine which one offers the best value. In particular, you’ll be able to compare grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study – all with the cost of attendance. By comparing the full financial picture, including tuition, room and board, and any additional fees, you can get a clearer sense of what you’ll need to pay. #3. You Have More Time to Make Financial Adjustments If your family’s financial situation changes after applying, Regular Decision allows more flexibility to address those changes. Whether your parent’s job status shifts or unexpected expenses arise, you’ll have time to adjust your financial aid application and communicate with schools about your circumstances. Additionally, if your financial aid package isn’t sufficient, you’ll have more time to appeal or negotiate for additional funding. #4. You Can Maximize Scholarship Opportunities Many colleges and universities offer merit-based scholarships to Regular Decision applicants, particularly those who apply by the school’s priority deadlines. These scholarships can sometimes be more generous for Regular Decision applicants than for those applying Early Action, as schools may allocate the majority of their funds to students who apply later in the cycle. #5. More Time to Submit Financial Aid Forms For students applying Regular Decision, the financial aid deadlines may align more closely with when the family has completed their taxes and other financial documents. Since the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) opens on October 1st (December 1st this year!) each year, Regular Decision gives you more time to ensure your financial aid forms are complete and submitted accurately before the official deadline. While applying Early Action may be appealing for students eager to know their college fate early, Regular Decision is often the best choice for families who want to make a fully informed decision about both college admissions and financial aid. Remember, the college decision is not just about where you’ll thrive academically, but also where you can afford to attend. Good luck with your college planning, and remember to prioritize both your academic goals and financial needs! More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

As a high school senior, the college application process can feel like a marathon. Between preparing your essays, gathering letters of recommendation, and making sure you meet all the deadlines, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. One option that can ease some of that stress is applying through Early Action. If you’re looking to gain admission to your dream school without the added pressure of figuring out your financial aid package right away, Early Action might be the perfect choice for you. What Is Early Action? Early Action is an application process that allows students to apply earlier than the regular application deadline. Typically, the application deadline for Early Action is early to mid November and applicants usually receive their admission decision by mid-December. What sets Early Action apart from other options, like Early Decision or regular decision, is that it’s non-binding . This means that if you’re accepted through Early Action, you’re not required to attend that school. You still have until May 1st (National College Decision Day) to decide which school you’ll commit to, just like regular applicants. Key Benefits of Early Action #1: Peace of Mind with Early Acceptance  One of the biggest advantages of applying Early Action is knowing your college admission status sooner. Instead of waiting until March or April to hear back, you can receive your decision by December. This gives you plenty of time to plan your next steps. Getting into a school early can also help reduce anxiety during the second half of your senior year. You won’t be spending months stressing over whether or not you’ll be accepted—by the time the holidays roll around, you’ll have a clearer picture of your future. #2. More Time to Focus on Other Priorities  Once you’ve submitted your Early Action application, the majority of your application work is done. This allows you to focus on finishing up the rest of your senior year on a strong note—whether that’s excelling in your classes, preparing for final exams, or participating in extracurriculars. Without the looming worry of outstanding applications, you can enjoy your senior year and head into the second semester with a bit more peace of mind. #3.  No Binding Commitment  Unlike Early Decision, which is binding (meaning if you’re admitted, you must attend),  Early Action gives you flexibility . This means you can apply to multiple schools through Early Action. Once that’s done, compare your acceptance offers, and decide which school fits you best. All of that happens without feeling pressured to commit right away. You can still apply to other colleges during the regular decision period. You’re under no obligation to attend the school that accepts you Early Action. #4.  Admission Without Financial Aid Pressure  A major benefit of applying Early Action is that, unlike Early Decision, you don’t have to make any financial aid decisions before accepting an offer. This is especially helpful for students and families who want time to evaluate their financial aid packages from multiple schools before making a final decision. If you’re applying to schools that offer need-based financial aid, early action gives you time to weigh your options. You’ll be able to make a more informed decision about which school to attend. Plus you’ll be able to look at the academic fit and the financial package. #5.  Possibly Higher Admission Rates  In some cases, schools may have higher acceptance rates for Early Action applicants. While this varies by school, some institutions may view Early Action applicants as more serious about their institution because they’re applying early, and they may accept a higher percentage of those students. Applying Early Action could give you a slight edge in the admissions process, especially if you’re applying to highly selective schools. #6.  Earlier Access to Campus Resources  Getting admitted early also means you can jump on things like campus housing, class registration, and sometimes even scholarship opportunities. Many schools open up scholarship applications to Early Action admits ahead of time. You may have the chance to secure funding before regular applicants. Early Action is an excellent option for high school seniors who want to get ahead in the college application process without the financial aid pressure that comes with other options like Early Decision. It allows you to receive your acceptance earlier, which can relieve some of the stress associated with waiting for decisions, while still giving you the flexibility to evaluate your options carefully. If you’re ready to take control of your college admissions journey, consider applying Early Action to your top schools. You’ll not only be able to enjoy the holidays with one less thing on your plate but also have more time to focus on the rest of your senior year. Good luck, and happy applying! More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

Navigating the financial aid process as a college student or first time college parent can feel mind-boggling, especially with the numerous terms and acronyms thrown around. Almost every financial aid application or letter will have at least one of these acronyms so it’s important to start recognizing them. I want you to feel confident and comfortable as you navigate all of the documents you’ll be handling over the next year! To help you understand the financial aid landscape and make informed decisions as a college-bound student (or with them as a parent), I’ve put together a glossary of the most common financial aid terms and their meanings. FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)  The FAFSA is a form that students and their families fill out to determine their eligibility for financial aid, including federal grants, work-study programs, and loans. It is essential to fill out the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize your financial aid options! This typically opens in October.  Student Aid Index The Student Aid Index is replacing the Expected Family Contribution from prior years, which was the amount a family would have to pay out-of-pocket for college expenses. Now, the SAI will help colleges and universities determine how much funding a student can receive. You can read about how the SAI might impact your family here! Grants   Grants are a type of financial aid that are not repaid. They are based on financial need. The most common federal grant is the Pell Grant, which is available to undergraduate students who demonstrate significant financial need. The new SAI is making the Pell Grant more available to many students!  Scholarships Scholarships are funds awarded to students based on various criteria, including academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, or specific talents. Like grants, scholarships do not get repaid. Scholarships come from colleges, private organizations, or community groups. Check for these frequently – even after college acceptance – to help keep your costs low!  Loans Loans are borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest. There are several types of student loans, including federal loans (such as Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans) and private loans from banks or other financial institutions. Federal loans generally offer more favorable terms and repayment options than private loans. Read about the differences here!  Work-Study Programs  Work-study is a federal program that provides part-time jobs for students with financial need. The program allows them to earn money to help pay for their education expenses. These jobs are typically on-campus, but some may be with local nonprofits or community organizations. COA (Cost of Attendance)   The COA is the total estimated cost of attending a particular college or university for one academic year. It includes tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. The COA is necessary to help determine a student’s financial need and aid eligibility. FAFSA Submission Summary The FAFSA Submission Summary is a summary of the information provided when you complete the FAFSA. Simple as that! It also indicates a student’s eligibility for federal student aid. Colleges use the this summary to prepare financial aid packages for students. Award Letters Award letters are documents from a college or university to a student that list the types and amounts of financial aid they are eligible to receive. This may include grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. It is important to carefully review and compare award letters from different schools to understand the full cost of attendance and the amount of aid provided. When you compare letters, remember to pay special attention to what the numbers say!  Understanding these key financial aid terms can empower you to make informed decisions and effectively plan for your college expenses. Familiarize yourself with this glossary to ensure you’re able to navigate the financial aid process with confidence. Remember, every dollar saved or earned through financial aid can make a significant difference in making college more affordable for you and your family. Good luck!  More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.