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How to Make College Visits Purposeful?
College visits are invaluable for high school students as they provide a comprehensive and personalized understanding of the college environment. The visits should be purposeful, contributing to a more efficient and meaningful college exploration process. Typically,...
The Importance of High School Resumés in College Admissions
Your College Coach In the journey toward college, a well-constructed high school resumé provides a holistic representation of a student's achievements and experiences. Here are some key reasons why high school resumés are important for college applications. High...
I Applied Early Action and Was Deferred—Now What?
Early action applications can result in acceptance, denial, or deferred admission, offering three potential outcomes. While a deferral may feel like rejection initially, it's a reconsideration during regular decision evaluations. It doesn't imply flaws; instead, it...
Can I Negotiate for More Money From a College?
Yes! It is a process known as a financial aid appeal. Typically, changes in financial circumstances such as job loss, medical expenses, or other unforeseen events may qualify for an appeal. This type of appeal is often referred to as a “special circumstances appeal.”...
Discovering College Scholarships for Your Student
High school seniors have various avenues to explore when searching for college scholarships. Here are some tips to help them navigate the process: Start Early: Begin the search now; most scholarships have deadlines or specific eligibility criteria that require time to...
The FAFSA 2024 is available!
Effective 12/31/23FAFSA 2024 (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) has been introduced with what the government terms a "soft launch," akin to a trial run assessing the application's functionality. Expect intermittent pauses for technical tweaks during this...
Benefits of Extracurriculars in High School?
Participating in extracurricular activities can bring students various benefits throughout high school. Engaging in these activities is a valuable commitment for students looking to enhance their personal growth and college prospects. Here are several advantages that...
How do you estimate the college’s net price for your student?
What is the net price? The net price is an estimate of the actual cost families will pay for their student's college education expenses annually. How do you calculate the net price? The college’s total cost of attendance (COA) (tuition & fees, room, board, books...
Should You Consider Financial Fit in Your College Search?
What does “fit” mean? When you shop for pants, the “fit” is not just about whether you can get them on. It involves other factors such as color, quality, appearance, and cost. College fit includes factors such as geographic location, GPA, SAT/ACT scores, academic...
Should Students Take a Gap Year?
What is a gap year? A gap year is a break between high school and college. Students use it to explore other interests like travel, work, or volunteering. It's taken after high school graduation and before starting college the following year. Its main purpose is to...
Students With Learning Differences
What is the correct term? Learning differences and disabilities (LD) are often used interchangeably. LDs don't affect intelligence but may impact how the brain processes information. With proper support, children with LDs can still learn and succeed. The students I...
Does Every College Require the CSS Profile?
What is the CSS Profile? The CSS (College Scholarship Services) Profile is a financial aid application used by many private colleges and universities to determine your student’s eligibility for non-government financial aid, such as the college’s grants, loans, and...
How to Write an Impactful Application Activities List
It's important to choose the right activities and describe them effectively for an impressive application. Tips: Use action verbs! You can Google them! Be concise. Leave out extra words. Complete sentences are not necessary. You have 150 words max! Include a...
FAFSA Changes
The redesigned Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is expected to launch in December of this year. For years, October 1 was the first day US citizens or eligible non-citizens could apply for need-based financial aid by submitting the FAFSA. Because of the...
How Does College Financial Aid Work?
How much will a four-year college cost your student? It depends on how much financial aid your student receives! Parents often tell me, “We won’t qualify for financial aid.” This depends on many factors, including your family’s financial “profile,” your child’s...
Federal Student Loan Payments Restart in October
Millions of Americans with federal student loans will have their first payment due in October after a three-year pause. What can you expect? You may have a different loan servicer. Look for postal mail notifications or log into studentaid.gov to confirm your...
How to Organize Your College Applications
Before applying to college, it is essential to get organized. Even with excellent grades, impressive test scores, and many extracurricular activities, it can be stressful without a well-planned application process. When making your final decision, it will be important...
Money-Saving Advice for College
Saving on college costs reduces debt burdens and promotes long-term financial independence. Knowing ways to save on college costs is important when considering your college list. Student loan debt is the second highest form of debt in the U.S., second only to...