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Let's Talk About the True Cost―and True Value―of a College Education

Diverse: Issues in Higher Education

Financial aid is tailored to individual students financial-need as assessed by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). I advise anyone considering higher education to learn the facts and seek information from admissions and financial aid experts. The answer is because the actual out-of-pocket costs vary.

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The Ultimate College Application Checklist for Seniors: CollegeAdvisor x StudyLab

Student Research Foundation

Complete the FAFSA, CSS profile, and any scholarship applications. Be sure to complete the FAFSA and the CSS profile accurately and on time. You may even benefit from investing in one-on-one advising through a college counseling service like CollegeAdvisor. And don’t forget to apply for any scholarships you’ve researched!

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Predictions for 2025

Counselors' Corner

If I had done so last year, I would have predicted a FAFSA nightmare, an election that would take our breaths away, and a very different landscape for college athletes. Early trials suggest were in for a much better, maybe normal, year of FAFSA. What could happen is the weakening of ED by shipping key programs (FAFSA?)

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Early Action vs. Regular Decision: Which Is Best for Your Financial Aid Strategy for College?

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

Need-Based Aid and FAFSA Timing Need-based financial aid is determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many schools use the FAFSA and CSS Profile for additional aid analysis. It’s advisable to submit them as soon as possible, regardless of whether you’re applying Early Action or Regular Decision.

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Promoting Help-Seeking Behaviors Among Underrepresented College Students

Timely MD

Terms like FAFSA, withdrawal deadline, or academic probation can feel alien and inaccessible. Partner with student organizations, residence halls, and cultural centers to offer pop-up counseling sessions, financial aid workshops, or academic advising. Normalizing these conversations is critical to reducing this stigma.

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

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

The FAFSA is one of the most important applications youll fill out, and it opens every year on October 1st. This will make filling out your FAFSA or scholarship applications a lot easier. Keep track of deadlines for both the FAFSA and any scholarships you want to apply for. Happy planning, and good luck!

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From Junior to Senior Year: Your College Financial Aid Prep Starts Now

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

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 doesnt open until October 1st of your senior year, its never too early to get familiar with the process. Now Enrolling: College Financial Aid Advising for the Class of 2026-2027!