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How to Make College More Affordable: Why Early Financial Aid Planning Matters

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

Colleges have different deadlines, scholarships come with various eligibility criteria, and grants can require some paperwork that takes time to gather. Heres a quick review of what financial aid actually refers to: Grants: Money you dont have to pay back (yay!). Research Scholarships Start looking for scholarships now.

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The Essential Guide to Financial Aid for High School Juniors

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

There are three main types of financial aid: Grants : These are usually need-based and dont need to be paid back. Scholarships : Often awarded based on merit (like academic performance, sports, or talent) and do not need to be repaid. Now Enrolling: College Financial Aid Advising for the Class of 2026-2027!

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Overview of Federal Direct Student Loans

College Planners of America

This application is essential for determining a students eligibility for various forms of Federal, state, and private financial aid such as grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loans. For the 2025-26 school year, it is June 30, 2026. After July 1, 2026, undergraduate student loans will carry an interest rate of 6.39%.

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Deciding on Financial Aid Offers: Do You Really Need All Those Loans?

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

While grants and scholarships provide much-needed assistance, loans often make up a significant portion of the aid package. Understanding Financial Aid Packages: Financial aid packages typically consist of a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and loans.

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College Financial Aid Forms Decoded: Understanding What These Terms Mean

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

It opens doors to federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. If you want to read some of my tips to prepare for the 2025-2026 FAFSA, check out recent blogs here! Grants vs. Loans : Grants are free money for college that you don’t have to repay, while loans are borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest.