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3 Must-Ask Questions for the Financial Aid Director: Unlocking Financial Aid Wisdom

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

Whether you’re a senior weighing your financial aid options or a junior gearing up for college visits this summer, remember: the financial aid office is your friend! When you chat with the financial aid office, asking the right questions is key.

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How to Close the Gap Between Financial Aid Offers and the Cost of College

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

Any financial aid offer letters received will outline the amount of scholarships, grants, and loans you can expect. The school may have additional funds for low-income students or may be able to point you in the direction of other scholarships. It will also state how much you may have to pay out of pocket.

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Deciphering College Financial Aid Offers: Making the Right Choice for Your Wallet and Education

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

Then subtract out the grants and scholarships from individual schools, along with any scholarships you won on your own, for a bottom line net cost figure. See if any schools are expecting you to participate in a work-study program that will provide money within their aid package.

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What to Keep in Mind When Comparing Financial Aid Offers from Your Top Colleges

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

Subtract any grant and scholarship offers you’ve received from that figure. Compare these numbers between schools to see which is a better financial fit. Look for Qualifiers on Money You’re Receiving : Make sure all grants and scholarships listed are available for the full time of enrollment, as long as you meet qualifications.

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What to Consider When Choosing Your College by National College Decision Day

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

Be sure you know how much of each financial aid offer comes. You’re likely to see scholarships and grants you will not have to repay, and student loans that you will have to repay. Make one last effort at increasing financial aid Remember, the colleges are looking at financial aid information from the last year.

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Updates to the 2024-2025 FAFSA Will Help Maximize Your Financial Aid

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

One thing that has not changed about the FAFSA is that any current high school senior who plans to attend college in the fall and any current college students should still file the FAFSA. As a reminder, the FAFSA gathers information about your financial needs so your student can be offered work-study, grants, and student loans.

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Navigating the FAFSA Maze: Your Essential Roadmap to Financial Aid Success

CFAA College Financial Aid Advisors

The FAFSA serves as the primary application for federal student aid programs, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Additionally, many states and colleges use the FAFSA to determine eligibility for their own financial aid programs.