This site uses cookies to improve your experience. To help us insure we adhere to various privacy regulations, please select your country/region of residence. If you do not select a country, we will assume you are from the United States. Select your Cookie Settings or view our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Cookie Settings
Cookies and similar technologies are used on this website for proper function of the website, for tracking performance analytics and for marketing purposes. We and some of our third-party providers may use cookie data for various purposes. Please review the cookie settings below and choose your preference.
Used for the proper function of the website
Used for monitoring website traffic and interactions
Cookie Settings
Cookies and similar technologies are used on this website for proper function of the website, for tracking performance analytics and for marketing purposes. We and some of our third-party providers may use cookie data for various purposes. Please review the cookie settings below and choose your preference.
Strictly Necessary: Used for the proper function of the website
Performance/Analytics: Used for monitoring website traffic and interactions
Across the country, community colleges and universities are seeing fewer students enroll, a trend that could have long-term consequences for both individuals and the economy. A shrinking student population means fewer trained workers entering key industries, bringing about economic decline as the demographic cliff continues to grow.
The Department of Education has officially launched the 2025-26 FAFSA application nearly two weeks ahead of the original December 1st deadline. After months of beta testing, the form is available to all students and families via the dedicated FAFSA portal at studentaid.gov.
High school seniors who are ready to unlock financial aid and take the next step toward your education, it’s time to file your FAFSA. Completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is one of the most important tasks you’ll need to tackle as you prepare for college. You can sign electronically with your FSA ID.
The FAFSA is an important part of the college application process, but it can feel a little bit larger than life if youve never completed the paperwork. For some students, the application feels overwhelming and instead of figuring it out or asking for help, they skip submitting it. Myth: FAFSA is Only for Federal Aid.
Originally scheduled for release in August, Federal Student Aid announced yesterday that batch corrections will not be available for the 2024-25 FAFSA. This surprising announcement places a significant burden on Financial Aid Administrators and may cause further delays in granting aid to students.
If you’re planning on attending college and need financial aid, then filling out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ) is an essential step. But its not just about submitting the FAFSA you need to be aware of the deadlines to make sure you dont miss out on the financial assistance you need.
For students preparing to apply for financial aid, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial part of the process. With recent changes to the FAFSA process, it’s important to stay informed about whats going on. This can help to maximize your eligibility for aid and financial aid funding.
Submitting your Free Application for Federal Student Aid is a huge milestone in the college application process, but its just the beginning of your financial aid journey. Heres a breakdown of the next steps after you submit your FAFSA. Heres a breakdown of the next steps after you submit your FAFSA.
Though some schools are test-optional, many still require or strongly encourage students to submit test scores. Some students tend to prefer one test over the other, so taking both is a great way to see which one plays to your strengths. Complete the FAFSA, CSS profile, and any scholarship applications.
If youre new to this, heres a quick tour on making the most out of these 20-minute meetings: Graduation requirements Greet the student, ask them how the team is doing, then make sure they will have what they need to leave next June. Class scheduleStudents need to stay challenged senior year, and colleges care about rigor.
You need to apply for federal student aid (FAFSA) to be considered for work-study. Its not guaranteed, so make sure to fill out your FAFSA form early. Its important to balance work-study with your class schedule to avoid burnout. This is based on your FAFSA application and your familys financial situation.
Receiving a college rejection letter can feel like a sudden end to a dream youve worked tirelessly for as a high school student. If youre a student whos received an early admission rejection for the college of your dreams, know that youre not alone. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.
Early decision application responses are being sent out and for some students, their college dreams are falling apart. Reassess your initial strategy: Some students can get very interested in one particular college in the rush to apply. Not every student needs or wants to start college right after high school graduation.
Completing the FAFSA is one of the first steps that students and families must complete to start their journey to college. Through this application, schools determine how much funding a student is eligible for. Most students under 24 are considered dependent, and require their parents’ financial details.
Summer break might feel like a pause button for students: no school, no homework, and a bit more breathing room for busy families. Start by getting familiar with how financial aid works: learn the basics of the FAFSA , scholarships, grants, and the potential of your family’s contribution. You can create that now!
Adjusting your schedule and extracurriculars along the way is perfectly normal. There are countless resources available to help students discover colleges and universities that align with their goals. Each students college priorities will be different. Thats okay! Start your scholarship search as soon as possible!
Make sure that you know how to monitor your student account portal. 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. This is something you should be checking regularly.
Students then have until May 1st (National College Decision Day) to decide where to attend. For students applying via Early Action, there may be an advantage if you’re applying to schools that give out merit-based scholarships. Many schools use the FAFSA and CSS Profile for additional aid analysis.
But this decision isn’t just about choosing the school with the best programs, campus vibe, or student culture. 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.
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!
As a high school student preparing for college, one of the most excitingand sometimes stressfulmoments is receiving your financial aid packages. When comparing offers, look closely at how much youre being offered in student loans. Some schools have additional fees for things like technology, student health services, or parking.
Many students don’t realize that asking for more financial aid is a legitimate strategy that can potentially lighten the cost of paying for school. If something has changed since you submitted your FAFSA, or if you’re facing unexpected costs, it might be time to ask for a little more help.
Summer is such a wonderful time, especially for students who have graduated and are preparing to start college this fall. I am SO proud of all of my students who are about to go do great things at the colleges of their choices!! I suggest students spend a little time each week searching for scholarships.
Applying for college is a big milestone for students everywhere, but for many families, the financial aid process can quickly become the most stressful part. Whether your child is entering their junior or senior year, this guide offers practical steps for both students and parents to take now! The good news? Keep them organized.
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.
Early Action is an application process that allows students to apply earlier than the regular application deadline. 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. What Is Early Action?
Higher education becomes even more expensive when students receive their financial aid offers – and theyre smaller than everyone hoped. Some schools allow students to appeal for additional aid if they can demonstrate extenuating circumstances. These jobs are often on campus and designed to accommodate student schedules.If
If you’re a high school or college student thinking about how you’re going to pay for college, here’s something you need to know: now is the time to begin planning. Too many students wait until the last minute to think about financial aid. The FAFSA typically opens in the fall, and scholarship deadlines can begin as early as September.
As the summer months roll in and your student takes a break from school, its the perfect time for parents to start thinking about the future, especially when it comes to college planning. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) now can help ensure a smooth application process later on.
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. Schools want to see students succeed, and they often have mechanisms in place to help those facing unexpected challenges. Be patient and understanding, but also be persistent.
Its good manners, helps free up spots for other students, and avoids unnecessary emails and reminders. 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.
Here’s a few of my favorite tips for students (of any age!) Researching these options over time gives students a broader perspective on what is available and what they might qualify for. Starting early allows students to align their activities and achievements with these criteria as they go back to school in the fall.
Its a chance for students to make their final decisions about their plans for next year! If a visit isn’t possible, check out virtual tours or reach out to current students for their insights. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college. Not sure how to make your decision?
There are federal student loans, which often come with lower interest rates and better terms, and private loans, which can vary in cost. 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.
But there’s one important part of the college journey that many students delay – financial aid planning. Heres how you can begin today: Learn the Basics of Financial Aid One of the most important tools in the financial aid process is the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
Your Student Portal and Email This will become your new communications hub. Set Up a Plan to Pay the Balance Even with financial aid, many students still have a remaining balance. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college. Some colleges offer deposit waivers. Set Up (and Check!)
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. Here are more tips on finding scholarships.
It is a student’s chance to explore campuses, get a feel for the community, and decide if a particular school is the right fit for you. Are academic programs your top priority, or are you looking for a campus with strong student life, sports, and extracurricular activities? Are students engaged?
For many high school students, early college applications are a huge milestone. Heres how you can navigate this challenging time together, and help your student build confidence moving forward: 1. Acknowledge What Hurts Rejection stings , and both students and parents should acknowledge the emotions that come with it.
If you’re a high school student (or the parent of one), college might still feel far offbut when it comes to paying for it, now is the perfect time to start planning. From scholarships and grants to work-study and student loans, theres a lot to understand.
One of the biggest questions students and families face is how to pay for higher education. As a junior, there are steps you can take now to set yourself up for financial aid success: Research Scholarships : Many scholarships are available to students in their junior year or earlier. The earlier you start preparing, the better.
College websites, online rankings, virtual tours, and student reviews can all provide valuable insight into a schools academic offerings, campus culture, and overall vibe. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college. This is where the internet becomes your best friend.
As you prepare your student to leave home and begin school, its critical to discuss money candidly with your student. These discussions can help your family come to terms with the plans ahead and help your student enter a new phase of life. This may help your student decide on having a job or not while theyre in college.
For many high school students, applying to colleges is an exciting and stressful experience. Heres how to turn this moment of rejection into a new opportunity and direction for your college-bound student! Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.
We organize all of the trending information in your field so you don't have to. Join 5,000+ users and stay up to date on the latest articles your peers are reading.
You know about us, now we want to get to know you!
Let's personalize your content
Let's get even more personalized
We recognize your account from another site in our network, please click 'Send Email' below to continue with verifying your account and setting a password.
Let's personalize your content