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Oregon State University (OSU - Go Beavers!)
Oregon State University (OSU - Go Beavers!)
College Knowledge in 5 Minutes!
Become a more informed college consumer and make better decisions for your college selection process
Every Thursday, look for a new Roadmap4College College Knowledge post!
Oregon State University (OSU - Go Beavers!)
Top for Research: OSU is only 1 of 3 universities in the US that hold all four grant designations: land, sun, sea, and space. Why does that matter? OSU is top for research initiatives which helps you explore more career opportunities!
Fun Facts:
50% of the students are from out of state
No additional essays: Apply to OSU via the Common App and only the main essay is required!
Unique majors: Ecological Engineering, Sports Business, Design & Innovation Management, and Apparel Design.
SAVE $$$: OSU is a WUE college for many CA students!
About 30% of CA applicants receive the WUE scholarship - your OSU tuition cost is very near the University of CA (UC) cost with no impacted majors, majority of classes between 25-60 students, and Pac 12 football!
Building Momentum and Testing
How Students Can Prepare With Confidence While Parents Stay Informed
Preparing for college entrance testing is not only about earning strong scores. It is also about building consistent academic momentum, reducing stress, and positioning students for long-term success. Both parents and students play meaningful roles in this phase, especially as testing expectations evolve and competition for top programs increases.
This guide offers a balanced, evergreen look at how to approach momentum-building and testing to support confidence, strategy, and steady progress.
Why Momentum Matters Long Before Test Day
Momentum is built through consistent habits, not last-minute marathons. Students who create small, repeatable routines often see stronger results and lower anxiety. This is especially helpful for students who worry about testing performance, feel behind compared to peers, or struggle with motivation.
Momentum may show up as:
• Regular study sessions instead of binge-studying, focused on key areas to improve
• Reviewing mistakes to understand patterns
• Weekly practice tests that boost familiarity with test timing and increase students’ confidence
• Setting realistic weekly goals and room for flexibility (life happens!)
• Tracking progress to boost self-confidence
Parents can support this by providing structure, reducing pressure, and helping students prioritize healthy routines with balance. Many families find it helpful to treat momentum as skill-building rather than score-chasing, which helps students stay engaged over time. These skills will help your student’s academic performance and aren’t just for the test!
Understanding the Evolving Testing Landscape
The testing world continues to shift, and families often feel caught between old expectations and new options. Some colleges are test-optional, some require scores for specific programs or scholarships, and others strongly recommend them. Checking yearly with each college is important, as colleges have been changing their requirements.
To avoid confusion, students and parents should focus on:
• The student’s strengths and whether scores can enhance their application
• Scholarship requirements that may still rely on test scores
• How test-optional policies affect different majors or competitive tracks
• Building a strategy that includes practice testing at least once (even when unsure about submitting scores)
A common misconception is that students no longer need to test. In reality, strong scores could enhance your student’s academic profile or open scholarship doors, even in a test-optional landscape. But, the #1 factor in admissions will always be your student’s academic record, so staying strong with activities and academic coursework is the top priority. After that, carefully weigh your student’s ability to carry thoughtful test preparation within their schedules before scheduling a test in their future.
Compliance note:
This content was created in 2026. Requirements, deadlines, and regulations may change. Always verify current guidelines through official sources before taking action.
Balancing Academics, Activities, and Preparation
Parents often worry about overloading their students’ schedules, while students worry about falling behind their peers. Finding the right balance can be easier when the testing timeline is intentional rather than reactive.
A thoughtful preparation plan may include:
• Evaluating extracurricular commitments during heavy study weeks - balance the load
• Taking the PSAT first to evaluate potential testing strengths
• Using summer or school breaks as strategic windows for test prep focus
• Encouraging students to take ownership of their schedule while maintaining support
Students who understand why the plan matters are more likely to stay engaged. Parents can reinforce the bigger picture: testing is just one part of a much larger college-readiness journey and the way colleges view their overall portfolio.
Turning Testing Into an Opportunity
Testing does not need to be a negative, high-pressure experience. When students build momentum with intention, they gain valuable skills that translate beyond college admissions. These include time management, endurance, problem-solving, and developing resilience under pressure.
Testing can become an opportunity to build confidence, clarify academic strengths, and approach the college process with a stronger sense of control.
Ready to Build a Plan That Works?
Families often do their best on their own but still feel unsure whether the strategy they’re using is the right one. If you want clarity, guidance, or a momentum-building plan tailored to your student, now is the time to take the next step. Spots fill quickly, and starting early gives your student the strongest advantage.
To get personalized insight and practical next steps, email
Worcester Polytechnic Institute - The 'GOAT' (their mascot, really!)
Worcester Polytechnic Institute - The 'GOAT' (their mascot, really!)
Welcome to College Knowledge in 5 Minutes!
Become a more informed college consumer and make better decisions for your college selection process
Every Thursday, look for a new Roadmap4College College Knowledge post!
Worcester Polytechnic Institute - The 'GOAT' (their mascot, really!)
Two New Majors
WPI has new majors this year - Bachelor of Science degrees in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence. While these are new degree offerings, both areas have deep roots at WPI. Cybersecurity research dates back to the 1990s, and AI research even earlier. The AI program includes machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, autonomous AI, and AI ethics.
R1 Research & Innovation
WPI invested $66 million in research expenditures last year, and all students graduate with research experience built into their degree requirements. It’s also common for students to pursue additional research beyond what’s required. Since 2016, WPI faculty and students have earned 70+ patents, launched 25 startups in the past decade, and helped raise over $1.7B in capital - including innovation in AI-driven healthcare and climate technologies.
Admissions Context
Test Optional, NO HARM policy - while approximately 59% of applicants this year have submitted test scores, WPI only uses your score to HELP you. You will not be penalized for submitting a score lower than their mid 50 percentile.
WPI was ranked #39 on LinkedIn’s inaugural 2025 Top Colleges list, highlighting strong outcomes in career placement, internships, and recruiter demand.
Next, College Knowledge will focus on Oregon State University!
Financial Aid: Key Terms and Why You Should Plan Early
Financial Aid: Key Terms and Why You Should Plan Early
Financial aid is one of the most misunderstood elements of the college process. Families often hear terms like “FAFSA, grants, loans, and scholarships” without fully understanding what they each mean or how they could affect each family’s long-term costs. Waiting until senior year to learn the basics can limit options and increase stress.
Understanding key financial aid terms and planning early gives families more control, clearer expectations, and better outcomes.
What Financial Aid Really Means
Financial aid refers to money that helps cover the cost of college. It can come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. College financial aid can be offered in a combination of grants, scholarships, work study, and student loans.
Not all financial aid is free money. Knowing the difference early helps families avoid unnecessary debt and unrealistic assumptions about affordability.
Key Financial Aid Terms Every Family Should Know
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
This form determines eligibility for federal aid and is often required by colleges for institutional aid. It is primarily tied to the parental total annual income.
Student Aid Index (SAI)
This number is what will be calculated by your FAFSA. This number can be estimated now by your family so that you are aware of what many colleges will assume your family should contribute to your student’s college expenses (even if you cannot or do not want to pay that amount).
Grants
Grants are typically need-based and do not need to be repaid. Federal and state grants eligibility is based on total household income.
Scholarships
Scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or awarded for specific talents or criteria. Some are renewable, while others are one-time awards. It is very important to know that all colleges do NOT award both merit and need based scholarships. Each college has a different set of financial aid parameters and should be researched to understand their net price to your family.
Student Loans
Loans must be repaid with interest. Federal student loans usually offer more favorable terms than private student loans, which carry higher interest rates and fewer protections. Some colleges may offer loans as part of their ‘financial aid package’.
Cost of Attendance
This includes tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, and other expenses. This varies WIDELY by college, so it is important to understand the cost of living around each campus.
Net Price
The net price is what a family actually pays after any grants and scholarships that may be offered. This Net Price will vary depending on your family’s financial situation and your SAI.
Why Planning Early Makes a Difference
Learn the ‘college industry’! You may spend over a total of $100,000+ on your student over 4 years to attend college. Families who start financial aid planning early have more time to understand eligibility, compare college costs, and identify realistic options. Early planning allows students to build stronger academic and extracurricular profiles that may increase merit-based aid opportunities. Strong family communication around the financial aspects of colleges also helps the student lessen the anxiety and stress over applying to colleges that your family may not be able to afford. Why wait until AFTER acceptances roll in before budgeting?
Waiting until deadlines approach can lead to increased stress, miscommunication between family members, and rushed decisions. Financial aid planning is not just paperwork. It is a strategy to keep your family working together as a team towards your student’s college goals!
Common Financial Aid Mistakes to Avoid
Many families assume they will not qualify for aid and skip the process entirely. Others rely too heavily on finding private loans without fully understanding repayment terms.
Another common mistake is focusing only on the sticker price instead of the net cost. An ‘expensive college’ that looks out of your budget range at first look may be more affordable than expected after financial aid. Do your homework now to understand the ‘net’ price per college!
Avoiding these pitfalls starts with education and early action - be a smart consumer and learn about the industry.
How Colleges Evaluate Financial Need
Colleges use financial data from the FAFSA and sometimes also the CSS Profile to assess a family’s ability to contribute toward education costs. Policies vary widely, so it is important to use every tool in the college’s financial aid section to best understand their net cost for your family.
Understanding how financial need is calculated helps families plan more effectively now and to proactively curate a list of colleges for their student that has both colleges within your budget and that your student has a strong chance for scholarships! Avoid surprises after acceptance letters arrive - take away the potential stress of talking to your senior student AFTER acceptances about which colleges are not affordable. Plan now!
Take Control of the Financial Aid Process
Financial aid does not have to feel overwhelming. Learning key terms and starting early in high school allows families to make confident, informed decisions and reduce financial stress.
If you want guidance on where to begin or how to avoid costly mistakes, expert support can make all the difference.
Ready to Get Ahead?
If you want clarity and a clear college financial aid plan, now is the time to act.
Visit https://www.aroadmapforcollege.com/ to get trusted guidance and support on how to start planning early.
Compliance Note
This content was created in 2026. Requirements, deadlines, and regulations may change. Always verify current guidelines through official sources before taking action.
Summer Programs: How to Choose What’s Best for You
Summer Programs: How to Choose What’s Best for You
Summer programs can be a powerful way for students to explore interests, build skills, and strengthen a college application. With thousands of options ranging from academic enrichment to volunteer opportunities, choosing the right summer program requires strategy, not guesswork.
This guide breaks down how to evaluate summer programs so you can make a confident, informed decision that aligns with your goals.
Start With Your Goals, Not the Program List
Before searching for the “best summer programs,” clarify what you want to gain. Colleges are not looking for a specific brand-name program. They are looking for your purpose and alignment with the other parts of your college application.
Ask yourself:
Are you exploring a possible major or career path?
Do you want to build academic skills or earn college credit?
Are you looking for leadership, research, or community impact?
Do you need flexibility because of work, family, or other commitments?
What is your realistic budget of time and cost? Would it be better for you to create your own project or research goals?
A program that fits your goals will always be more valuable than a “prestigious” option that does not. After the program, could you explain to someone what you learned from it and why it was important to your goals?
Understand the Different Types of Summer Programs
Not all summer programs serve the same purpose. Common categories include:
Academic enrichment programs focused on subjects like STEM, humanities, or business
College credit programs are often offered by universities or community colleges
Pre-college programs are designed for high school students to experience college life on a college campus (Note that the university setting may NOT indicate it is run by the actual university)
Research programs that emphasize independent or guided inquiry (group or 1:1)
Volunteer and service programs that support community engagement
Internships or job-based experiences, paid or unpaid
Each type could add value to your resume, but only if it aligns with your interests or goals!
Evaluate Cost, Selectivity, and Value Carefully
One common misconception is that expensive or highly selective programs automatically look better on college applications. This is not true.
Colleges understand that access and affordability vary. Also, a location of a program doesn’t mean that that particular university favors the program - many 3rd party companies rent space on campuses during the summer.
A lower-cost or local program can be just as impactful as a well-known summer program if you engage deeply and can articulate what you learned.
Be cautious of:
Overpriced summer programs with limited academic depth
Pay-to-play programs that offer certificates without meaningful evaluation of your work
Programs that promise “guaranteed college admission” or exaggerated outcomes
Focus on value, not marketing language.
Consider Time Commitment and Balance
The best summer program is one you can fully commit to. A packed schedule that leads to burnout can work against you.
Colleges value students who make intentional choices and balance academics with personal growth. A combination of a part-time summer course, a job, and a meaningful project can be just as strong as a full-time residential program. Focus on depth rather than quantity.
Think carefully - why are you choosing these activities and what are your goals for what you will gain from the experience(s)?
How Colleges Actually View Summer Programs
Summer programs do not replace strong grades, course rigor, or authentic extracurricular involvement. They are one piece of your larger story.
Admissions officers look for:
Clear connection between the program and your interests
Evidence of initiative and follow-through
Reflection on what the experience meant to you
If you cannot explain why you chose a program and how it shaped you, it may not add value.
Making a Confident Choice
Choosing the right summer program is about fit, clarity, and intention. Avoid comparing yourself to others or chasing trends that you see on social media or from your school friends. One summer program is not the ‘reason’ a student got into X University. The strongest college applications are built on thoughtful decisions that make sense for YOU, the individual student.
If you are unsure where to start, getting guidance early can prevent wasted time and money and help you build a summer plan that truly supports your goals!
Ready to Get Started?
If you want help evaluating options or building a strategic summer plan, connect with Audrey at A Roadmap for College. Summer opportunities fill quickly, and early planning makes all the difference.
Book a 15-minute introductory call here:
https://calendly.com/audrey-arfc/introductory-call-15-min
Compliance Note
This content was created in 2026. Requirements, deadlines, and regulations may change. Always verify current guidelines through official sources before taking action.
Setting the Foundation: Financial Aid 101 for College-Bound Families
Setting the Foundation: Financial Aid 101 for College-Bound Families
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, especially when families are first introduced to financial aid. Between unfamiliar terminology, shifting requirements, and high-stakes decisions, many students miss out on opportunities simply because they did not understand the process early enough. Financial Aid 101 is about building a strong foundation so families can make informed, confident choices about college affordability.
Understanding What Financial Aid Really Is
Financial aid is not a single program. It is a broad system of resources designed to help students pay for college. These resources typically fall into four categories: grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans.
Grants and scholarships are often referred to as free money because they do not need to be repaid. Loans, while common, must be repaid with interest and should be approached carefully. Work-study provides part-time employment opportunities for eligible students to earn money toward educational expenses.
A common misconception is that financial aid is only for low-income families. While need based financial aid may not be an option, most students qualify for some form of college financial aid. Researching each university and the type of financial aid available is key.
The Role of the FAFSA and Other Applications
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly known as the FAFSA, is the primary gateway to federal financial aid and is often required for state and institutional aid as well. Even families who believe they will not qualify should complete it. Skipping the FAFSA is one of the most common financial aid mistakes and can eliminate access to grants, subsidized loans, and some merit-based financial aid offered by colleges.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Financial aid planning is not just about filling out forms. It is about timing, strategy, and awareness. Families often wait too long to start, rely on outdated advice, or assume student loans are the only option.
Negative outcomes such as excessive student loan debt, missed scholarship opportunities, or selecting a college based solely on sticker price can be avoided with proper knowledge of the financial aid philosophy per college.
Why Early Planning Matters
Starting early allows families to compare true college costs, understand net price versus published tuition costs, and allows smarter enrollment decisions. Financial aid literacy empowers students and their parents to choose colleges to apply to that align with both academic goals and financial reality.
Early planning also reduces stress during senior year, when deadlines, applications, and decisions converge quickly. Families who plan ahead are better positioned to negotiate offers, appeal aid packages when appropriate, and avoid last-minute financial surprises.
Taking the First Step With Confidence
Financial aid does not have to be confusing or intimidating. With the right guidance, families can navigate the process with clarity and confidence, avoiding costly mistakes while maximizing available resources.
Compliance Note:
This content was created in 2026. Requirements, deadlines, and regulations may change. Always verify current guidelines through official sources before taking action.
College funding decisions are too important to leave to chance. If you want clarity on financial aid options and next steps, now is the time to act. Visit https://www.aroadmapforcollege.com/ to get expert guidance and avoid the common mistakes that cost families thousands every year. Waiting can limit options. Starting now creates an opportunity.
The Gift of Presence: Why Your Teen Needs You, Not College Talk, This Holiday Season
The Gift of Presence: Why Your Teen Needs You, Not College Talk, This Holiday Season
A Season for Connection, Not Pressure
The holidays hopefully brings much-needed downtime. They can also come with stress for families of high school students, especially when college admissions talk dominates the conversation. College financial aid anxiety and college lists can transform a celebratory season into one filled with worry.
Your teen spends the school year surrounded by competitive classmate chatter and questions about their future. Home should be the safe place where they feel seen for who they are right now.
What Teens Actually Want From You
Parents often underestimate the impact of simple connection. Teens want:
• Active listening without judgment
• Laughter and quality time
• Encouragement that isn’t tied to achievement
• Support that builds confidence, not anxiety
You can still be a steady guide while allowing holiday joy to take priority over college admissions talk.
Focus on What Truly Endures
College decisions come and go. The memories your family builds this season will last far longer than any acceptance letter. Show your teen they are more than a resume. Celebrate who they are now, not just who they are expected to become.
Compliance note: This content was created in 2025. Requirements, deadlines, and regulations may change. Always verify current guidelines through official sources before taking action.
Staying Organized After Submitting Applications: What Still Matters (and What Doesn’t)
Staying Organized After Submitting Applications: What Still Matters (and What Doesn’t)
The Work Isn’t Over Yet
The “Submit” button has been clicked, and your student has officially completed one of the most stressful phases of high school. But even after the excitement and relief, there’s still more to manage.
For many families, the post-submission season brings confusion about what still matters and what can safely take a back seat. Staying organized during this period helps reduce anxiety, prevent missed opportunities, and set your student up for a smoother transition into admissions season.
What Still Matters After Submitting Applications
1. Track application portals and follow-ups.
Each college provides access to a student portal for checking the status of materials and updates. Encourage your student to log in weekly to confirm that transcripts, test scores, and recommendations have been received. And, there may be new deadlines or housing opportunities announced. So, set weekly reminders, not daily check-ins, to stay informed without adding stress.
2. Stay on top of financial aid and scholarships.
Even though the applications are done, the financial side continues. Complete the FAFSA and any institutional financial aid forms such as the CSS Profile (if your college requires it - check your portals!) as soon as possible. Research scholarship opportunities—many have deadlines that fall after application season.
Compliance Note: This content was created in 2025. Requirements, deadlines, and regulations may change. Always verify current guidelines through official sources before taking action.
3. Keep academics a priority.
Senior grades still matter! Colleges may ask to review mid-year transcripts before making final decisions, and strong performance can reinforce your student’s academic trajectory. This is also a chance for your student to show consistency through the finish line. Continue to build those study habits that will help you succeed in college!
4. Manage communication wisely.
Encourage your teen to regularly OPEN both their emails and college portals for official updates. Missing an important message about interviews, financial aid, or supplemental materials can hurt their application standing. Help you student create a spreadsheet of their colleges and what has been communicated to them regarding admission announcement dates, financial aid, and housing.
What Doesn’t Deserve the Worry
1. Comparing timelines and decisions.
Every college releases decisions on its own schedule. Avoid getting caught in the social media loop of “who heard back first.” External ‘noise’ ramps up after the holidays. Parents AND students - stay positive and don’t contribute to the ‘gossip’.
2. Over-checking portals.
It’s easy to feel impatient, but logging in daily only fuels anxiety. Encourage your student to step back, trust the process and just check in weekly, and go enjoy their senior year milestones.
3. Obsessing over what can’t be changed.
Essays, transcripts, and applications are submitted. At this point, it’s about patience and perspective. Help your students focus on what is important during their senior year and focus on activities and hobbies they may carry on with them through college!
Organization Is Confidence
Staying organized after submissions isn’t about control—it’s about clarity. When parents and students manage this stage intentionally, they minimize stress and create space to enjoy life beyond applications. A well-organized system ensures that when updates arrive, your family is ready to respond calmly and effectively.
By separating what matters from what doesn’t, you’ll maintain focus and peace of mind during one of the most uncertain stages of the college journey.
Ready for Guidance on the Next Phase?
Don’t let uncertainty turn into overwhelm. A personalized plan started early in high school can help your student stay on track while you regain balance and confidence. Schedule your 15-minute introductory call with Audrey today at https://calendly.com/audrey-arfc/introductory-call-15-min before her calendar fills, expert insight now can make all the difference later.
Standing Out Through Your Activities: Quality Over Quantity
Standing Out Through Your Activities: Quality Over Quantity
When it comes to college applications, many students believe that more activities equal better chances. In reality, admissions officers care less about how many clubs you joined and more about how meaningfully you engaged in them. A strong activity record tells a story of focus, passion, and impact. Don’t be busy, think HOW are you growing from this activity?
Why Quality Matters More Than Quantity
Colleges want to understand who you are beyond academics. A long list of unrelated or superficial activities can make your application feel scattered. On the other hand, a focused set of commitments demonstrates consistency, leadership, and growth. Help your college application’s activities tell a clear story of who you are and what’s important to you!
When reviewing your activities, admissions officers look for:
Depth: Did you grow or learn from the activity over the time you’ve been involved? You don’t have to be President or have an official title - did you challenge yourself?
Impact: How your contributions made a difference in your community, team, or organization.
Authenticity: Whether your involvement aligns with your interests and values.
Showing genuine commitment over time communicates responsibility and purpose. And, it helps create clarity around YOUR story, both for the colleges…and yourself!
How to Choose the Right Activities
Start with what excites you. Whether it’s debate, music, coding, or volunteering, choose activities that align with your passions and allow you to grow. Focus on roles that challenge you, build skills, or connect to your intended field of study.
Tips for building a strong activities profile:
Stick with a few key interests once you find what interests you.
School-based and community-based involvement are equally good options.
Reflect on what each activity has taught you - how have you grown?
Avoid the temptation to join every club. Admissions readers can easily tell when activities are chosen just to “pad” an application. Think of each activity as a chance for you to grow. If a friend asked you why you participated in it, could you give an authentic answer?
Showcase Your Impact Effectively
When filling out the activities section of your application, describe not only what you did but what you achieved. Instead of listing “Member of Student Council,” share the results: “Organized fundraising events that raised $2,000 for local nonprofits.”
Use active verbs, measurable outcomes, and specific examples. This level of detail helps admissions officers understand your leadership style and initiative.
Showcase your achievements with confidence. Book directly with Audrey for personalized college application strategy support at https://calendly.com/audrey-arfc/introductory-call-15-min.
Financial Aid Basics Every Student Should Understand
Financial Aid Basics Every Student Should Understand
Paying for college can feel like navigating a maze, but understanding financial aid helps you make informed decisions about your education and your future. Financial aid isn’t just about loans—it includes scholarships, grants, work-study, and more. By learning the basics, you can maximize your opportunities and reduce unnecessary debt.
What Is Financial Aid?
Financial Aid refers to funding that helps students pay for college expenses such as tuition, housing, books, and fees. It comes from federal and state governments, colleges, and private organizations. The four main types of financial aid are:
Grants: Free money that doesn’t need to be repaid (often need-based).
Scholarships: Merit or talent based awards that also don’t require repayment.
Work-Study: Part-time jobs provided through your school to help cover expenses.
Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid with interest.
Understanding how each type works helps you choose wisely and avoid common financial pitfalls.
Start with the FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the foundation for most financial aid. Completing it determines your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many states and colleges also use FAFSA information for their own aid programs.
Key tip: File your FAFSA as early as possible after it opens each year, even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for aid. Some government grant funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Avoid negative SEO traps like “FAFSA confusion” or “financial aid errors” by staying informed Always use the official government website (www.studentaid.gov ) and never pay for assistance to file.
Understand the Difference Between Loans and Free Money
Not all aid is created equal. Grants and scholarships reduce your costs directly, while loans must be repaid. When comparing loan options, pay attention to:
Interest rates (fixed vs. variable)
Repayment terms (grace periods, income-based options)
Subsidized vs. unsubsidized loans (whether the government pays interest while you’re in school)
Borrow only what you truly need. A smaller loan today means greater financial freedom later.
Review and Renew Every Year
Financial aid isn’t a one-time process. You’ll need to reapply each year, update your FAFSA, and track renewal requirements for scholarships or grants. Regularly review your financial aid award letters and compare offers from multiple schools to understand your full cost of attendance. Filing your FAFSA gives you access to potential Federal student loans that you may not need this year, but if your financial circumstances change during the year, it may help your student stay in school! And, many colleges REQUIRE the FAFSA for consideration of merit based scholarships they may offer - so file it and don’t lose out!
Take the stress out of paying for college. Book directly with Audrey for personalized financial aid guidance at https://calendly.com/audrey-arfc/introductory-call-15-min.