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

Financial Aid, Pay for College / By

The idea of college can be both exciting and overwhelming. It’s the next big step in your educational journey, but there’s one big thing that might cause some stress for you and your family: how to afford it. College costs can quickly add up, and without proper planning, it can feel like a financial mountain to climb. With some smart moves now – as a junior in high school, you can make the whole process more manageable and less stressful later. Let’s talk about why early financial aid planning is so important to your college journey! Why Early Planning Matters You might be thinking, “I still have time before I need to worry about paying for college!” While that’s true, the earlier you start thinking about financial aid, the more options and opportunities you’ll have. Colleges have different deadlines, scholarships come with various eligibility criteria, and grants can require some paperwork that takes time to gather. Starting early means you’ll be prepared when the time comes to submit your applications.  By planning ahead, you’ll also have a clearer picture of your finances and may avoid taking on too much debt. Plus, financial aid doesn’t just help pay for tuition—it can cover things like books, housing, and meal plans. What is Financial Aid? Here’s a quick review of what financial aid actually refers to:  Grants: Money you don’t have to pay back (yay!). These are often based on financial need. Scholarships: Free money, usually awarded for academic achievement, sports, or other talents. Loans: Money you borrow and pay back after graduation. Some loans have low interest rates, but be careful—too many loans can lead to debt later on. Work-Study Programs: These are jobs offered by the school where you work part-time to help cover your costs. How to Start Financial Aid Planning Early:  Know Your Deadlines Each college or university has its own financial aid deadlines. Some deadlines are early in your senior year, so make sure you’re aware of when to apply. The FAFSA is one of the most important applications you’ll fill out, and it opens every year on October 1st. The earlier you submit it, the better your chances of getting grants and work-study options. Create a Financial Aid Checklist  Gather important documents like tax returns, social security numbers, and your family’s financial info ahead of time. 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. Research Scholarships Start looking for scholarships now. Many scholarships are open to high school juniors, and the more you apply for, the better your chances of receiving money. Don’t forget to check out local organizations, companies, and community groups—they often offer scholarships that aren’t as competitive as national ones. Consider Different Colleges Not all colleges have the same tuition rates or financial aid packages. Some colleges might offer better scholarships, while others have a higher cost of living. Do some research to find a balance between the school of your dreams and the financial reality of paying for it. The Power of Financial Aid A lot of students don’t realize how much financial aid can reduce the cost of college. For example, a student who receives a combination of grants and scholarships could end up paying only a fraction of the total tuition. By submitting the FAFSA early, you unlock access to federal grants that can lower costs right off the bat. The thought of paying for college can be scary, but with early financial aid planning, you can make the process smoother. The earlier you plan, the more likely you are to secure the financial aid you need to make college affordable and stress-free. Happy planning, and good luck!  Want more personalized help paying for college? Now Enrolling: College Financial Aid Advising for the Class of 2026-2027! I’m excited to announce that sign-ups are now open for the next class of college-bound students and returning students! If your family will be navigating the financial aid process for the 2026-2027 academic year, now is the time to secure your spot. Spaces are limited, so reach out today to reserve your place and ensure you have expert guidance every step of the way. 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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

College Financial Aid Prep for juniors: financial aid advisor Jodi Okun shares tips for high school juniors to help pay for college

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

Pay for College / By

For high school juniors, senior year is right around the corner! But before you get too caught up in the excitement of graduation, let’s talk about something that’s just as important: college financial aid. If you think financial aid prep starts in the fall of senior year, think again! It’s never too early to start getting ready for college financial aid applications. Here’s a few things you can do as you transition to being a high school senior to help prepare for your college journey!  Research Scholarships Early Scholarships are a great option when it comes to easing the cost of college. As a junior, you’re in the perfect spot to start hunting for those opportunities. Many scholarships have deadlines before senior year even starts, so the earlier you start, the better. You don’t want to be scrambling for a scholarship essay while everyone else is wrapping up their final assignments. Set aside time each week to search for scholarships. You’ll be surprised how many scholarships are out there for things you never even thought about—like specific majors, extracurriculars, or even your background! Here are more tips on finding scholarships. 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 doesn’t open until October 1st of your senior year, it’s never too early to get familiar with the process. Take some time now to understand what documents you’ll need. This way, you won’t be scrambling to gather tax forms, bank statements, and other documents when it’s go-time. Have a Family Talk About Finances Talking about finances can feel awkward, but it’s crucial to have an open conversation with your parents or guardians about paying for college. What are they expecting from financial aid? What are they able to contribute? This conversation will help you set realistic expectations and prepare your financial aid forms accurately. Also, talking early means no surprises later when you’re sorting through offers and comparing colleges. The more you know upfront, the smoother the entire process will be. Get Your Grades in Gear Let’s talk about the obvious—your grades. A strong academic record is essential for receiving both financial aid and scholarships. Many scholarships, like those based on merit, will look at your GPA, test scores, and class rank. If you’re aiming for those awards, make sure you’re staying on top of your coursework and making the most of any study resources available. Also, don’t forget about your senior year grades! Financial aid and scholarships may consider your final GPA, so it’s important to finish strong. Consider College Costs Thinking about college can be overwhelming. The price tags on some schools might seem scary, but the good news is there are options! Research the costs of schools you’re interested in and think about how much aid you might need. Cost of attendance includes more than just tuition—it also covers room and board, books, fees, and personal expenses. Start considering how you’ll pay for it all, and keep in mind that financial aid packages can vary by school. Keep an Eye on Deadlines Mark down deadlines for everything: the FAFSA, scholarship applications, and even college admissions. Senior year is fast-paced, and missing a deadline could mean missing out on money you could’ve gotten. Keeping an organized calendar or planner with all your important dates will make life so much easier. Here’s some of my tips on application deadlines!  So, while your friends may be focused on that summer vacation, you’re getting ahead by planning your financial aid strategy. It’s all about the little steps now that will make a big difference later. When the time comes for senior year, you’ll be ready to roll—and you’ll be in a much better spot to handle the stress of applications and deadlines. The earlier you prep, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to apply for financial aid. Want more personalized help paying for college? Now Enrolling: College Financial Aid Advising for the Class of 2026-2027! I’m excited to announce that sign-ups are now open for the next class of college-bound students and returning students! If your family will be navigating the financial aid process for the 2026-2027 academic year, now is the time to secure your spot. Spaces are limited, so reach out today to reserve your place and ensure you have expert guidance every step of the way. 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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

How to Ask for More Financial Aid to Pay for College: tips from financial aid advisor Jodi Okun to help students find more funding

How to Ask for More College Financial Aid (And Why You Should)

Financial Aid / By

When it comes to paying for college, the cost can feel overwhelming. But what if I told you that you might have more financial aid options than you realize? It’s true! 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. Here’s why you should consider reaching out to a college financial aid office for more funding and how to approach the process! Why You Should Ask for More Financial Aid Financial aid packages can be confusing, and often they don’t fully reflect your current financial situation. 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. Here are a few reasons why: Changes in Your Financial Situation:  If your family’s financial situation has changed due to factors like a job loss, medical expenses, or other hardships, you may be eligible for more aid. Financial aid packages are based on information submitted in the FAFSA, but schools can adjust awards based on changes in circumstances. If you have any changes you’re trying to share, make sure you have documentation to show the difficulty your family is facing.  Better Offers from Other Schools: If another college has offered you a better financial aid package, it doesn’t hurt to bring that to the attention of the school you’re hoping to attend. Many schools are willing to match or even beat offers if you present them with a competitive financial aid letter from another institution. You Deserve It: Simply put, if you feel your financial aid package doesn’t reflect your needs, it’s okay to ask for more. Schools want to support their students and understand that everyone’s situation is unique. How to Ask for More Financial Aid Asking for more aid might seem intimidating, but it’s a simple process! Contact the Financial Aid Office:   Your first step is to contact the financial aid office at the school. Be polite and professional when explaining why you believe your current package doesn’t fully cover your needs. It’s always helpful to provide any relevant documents, such as your family’s tax returns or letters explaining changes in your financial situation. Be Specific About Your Needs: Explain exactly why you need additional aid. Whether it’s due to changes in your financial situation or an offer from another school, being clear about your situation will make it easier for the office to assess your request. Consider Your Options:   Some schools offer more than one form of financial aid. If your school can’t offer you additional need-based aid, they may have merit scholarships, private scholarships, or other opportunities you haven’t considered. Ask if there are any other forms of aid or funding you can apply for. It can feel awkward to ask for more financial aid, but in many cases, it’s worth asking. Schools want to help students succeed, and they might be willing to make adjustments if you explain your situation. The worst thing that can happen is they say no, but the best thing is that you could get the financial help you need to make college more affordable. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself—you’ve got nothing to lose and potentially everything to gain. 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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

College financial aid advisor Jodi Okun shares how to break down your college financial aid letter to see what's free money and what's not

Breaking Down Your Financial Aid Letter: What’s Free Money and What’s Not

Financial Aid / By

Receiving your financial aid letter is a huge milestone in your college journey, but it can also be overwhelming. Understanding what’s actually free money and what you’ll need to pay back is key to making the right decisions for your future. Here’s your financial aid breakdown: Free Money: Grants and Scholarships Grants and scholarships are the best parts of your financial aid package because they don’t require repayment. Grants are often based on financial need, while scholarships can be awarded for academic achievement, athletic ability, or other criteria. These are the “free money” you want to focus on. Be sure to check if any scholarships are renewable, meaning they can continue each year as long as you meet certain criteria. What You Have to Pay Back: Loans Loans are the money you borrow to help pay for school, but remember: this is money you’ll have to repay, with interest. There are federal student loans, which often come with lower interest rates and better terms, and private loans, which can vary in cost. Always be aware of how much you’re borrowing and how it will affect you after graduation. Work-Study Work-study is a great way to earn money while in school, but it’s not free money. These are part-time jobs that you can use to cover some of your living expenses or other costs, but remember that you’ll have to work for this money. Still, it’s a good opportunity to gain experience and earn money without taking on more debt. Additional Costs Sometimes, your financial aid letter might not include all the expenses you’ll need to pay for, such as textbooks, transportation, or special fees. Make sure to account for these extra costs when evaluating your aid package. Understanding the differences between grants, loans, and work-study will help you make an informed decision about which offer is best for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure about any part of your financial aid letter—knowing what’s free and what’s not will set you up for success in the future!   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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

How to compare financial aid packages to help pay for college, tips shared by financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

How to Compare Financial Aid Packages and Get the Best Deal for College

Pay for College / By

As a high school student preparing for college, one of the most exciting—and sometimes stressful—moments is receiving your financial aid packages. Colleges often send out different offers with varying amounts of financial support, and it can be tricky to figure out which one is the best deal for you. With tuition and other expenses quickly adding up, it’s crucial to compare your options carefully.  Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision about your college financial aid package. 1. Look at the Total Cost of Attendance (COA) The first thing you’ll want to compare is the Total Cost of Attendance (COA) for each college. This includes tuition, room and board, textbooks, fees, transportation, and personal expenses. Each school might have a different COA, and it’s important to see the full picture before you decide.  2. Focus on Grants and Scholarships  Grants and scholarships are the best forms of financial aid because you don’t have to pay them back. They’re considered “free money,” and they should be a major factor when comparing packages. If one school is offering a larger grant, that’s free money you don’t have to worry about repaying, and it can make a huge difference in the total cost of attendance. 3. Understand Loans  Loans are another part of your financial aid package that you need to take seriously. Unlike grants and scholarships, loans must be paid back—often with interest. When comparing offers, look closely at how much you’re being offered in student loans. Also, pay attention to the interest rates on loans. 4. Work-Study Jobs Work-study programs offer part-time jobs on campus that allow you to earn money while you’re in school. This can be a great way to offset some of your costs, but it’s important to realistically assess how many hours you can work while balancing your studies. When comparing work-study offers, check the amount of money you’ll be able to earn and whether you feel comfortable fitting those work hours into your schedule. 5. Look for Additional Fees or Hidden Costs While you’re comparing aid packages, don’t forget to consider other costs that might not be included in the initial aid offer. Some schools have additional fees for things like technology, student health services, or parking.  6. Negotiate If Necessary If one school offers you more financial aid than another, or if your financial situation has changed since you first applied, don’t be afraid to reach out to the financial aid office. Many schools are open to negotiating aid packages, especially if you’ve received a better offer from a different school.  Choosing a college isn’t just about picking the right major or the coolest campus—it’s about finding an affordable option that makes sense for you and your family. By comparing financial aid packages carefully, you can ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible. Take your time to understand the details of each offer and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You’re making an important decision, and it’s worth doing the work to make sure you’re getting the most financial support for your education. 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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

Understanding financial aid: loans, grants, and work-study to help pay for college explained by financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

Understanding Financial Aid: Loans, Grants, and Work-Study Explained

Financial Aid / By

As you prepare for college, understanding the world of finances can feel like learning a new language, especially when you start looking at your financial aid award letter. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! Whether you’re planning to attend college soon or just thinking about your future, understanding the different types of financial aid you might receive is key to making smart decisions about paying for your education. Here’s a few key terms that you need to know when it comes to loans, grants, and work-study!  Loans:  Loans can be a tricky part of your financial aid package. They’re money you’ll need to pay back after you graduate (or if you drop out of school) with interest. Federal loans usually have better terms, such as lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options. Private loans, on the other hand, can be riskier and often come with higher interest rates. Subsidized loans don’t accumulate interest while you’re in school, while unsubsidized loans do. That means that with unsubsidized loans, the amount you owe will increase as interest builds up. Read more about the difference between federal v. private loans here!  No matter the type of loan you choose, pay attention to the interest rate on your loans. Even a small difference in rate can make a big impact over time, so compare and understand your options. Work-Study Programs:  Work-study programs allow you to earn money while attending school. The money you earn through work-study isn’t a loan, but a paycheck for working part-time jobs on or near campus. It’s a great way to gain work experience while earning extra cash for your expenses. You need to apply for federal student aid (FAFSA) to be considered for work-study. It’s not guaranteed, so make sure to fill out your FAFSA form early. There are limits on how much you can earn through work-study, and your school will set a maximum number of hours per week you can work. It’s important to balance work-study with your class schedule to avoid burnout. Grants:  Grants are probably the most exciting part of your financial aid package because they don’t have to be paid back! These are typically based on financial need, and can come from the federal government, state government, or even your college. If you qualify for a Pell Grant, you could receive a substantial amount of aid. This is based on your FAFSA application and your family’s financial situation.  Many states and universities also offer grants to students, usually with similar eligibility requirements based on need.  Don’t forget to read the fine print!  While loans, work-study, and grants are the main components of most financial aid packages, your award letter should include some other information. This includes the award amounts, renewability, deadlines, and other eligibility criteria. Ensure that you understand what you’re signing on for and if this will be funding that will help you through all of your college journey.   Understanding loans, work-study, and grants in your financial aid package is crucial to making informed decisions about paying for college. Take your time to read through all the details, ask questions if you don’t understand something, and make sure you’re clear on how each type of aid works. Paying for college is a big responsibility, and it’s important to know exactly what you’re agreeing to. 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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

Your college visit checklist: how to decide which schools belong on your list shared by college financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

Your College Visit Checklist: Which Schools Belong on Your List?

Preparing for College / By

Choosing the right college is a huge decision that can shape your future. But with so many options, how do you know which schools should be on your radar? The key to narrowing down your list of potential colleges is to carefully assess which schools will meet your academic, personal, and financial needs. A college visit is one of the best ways to decide if a school is truly the right fit for you. These are my favorite tips to help you build a solid checklist to guide your college visits so you can find the perfect school for the next four years!  What do you want in a school?  Before you start booking college visits, it’s important to define your priorities. What are the most important factors for you in a college? Think about location (near or far from home), the major you’re interested in, and the size of the campus. By defining your priorities early on, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for during your visits and what kind of schools to target. Start your research.  Once you’ve identified your priorities, it’s time to start researching schools that meet your criteria. This is where the internet becomes your best friend. College websites, online rankings, virtual tours, and student reviews can all provide valuable insight into a school’s academic offerings, campus culture, and overall vibe. Visit Schools That Match Your Priorities Once you have your list of schools that meet your criteria, it’s time to visit them! Visiting campuses is an essential part of the decision-making process because it allows you to get a real feel for the school’s atmosphere and environment. Read my tips to plan the perfect visit! Where will you be living? While campus visits are crucial, it’s also important to get a sense of the surrounding neighborhood or city. What’s the area like outside of the college bubble? Are there restaurants, shops, and parks within walking distance? If you’re attending a college in a big city, consider factors like transportation options and overall city vibe. Visiting nearby areas gives you a fuller picture of what it would be like to live in that location for four years.  Consider the Financial Fit During your visits, it’s important to keep your financial situation in mind. Even if a school is everything you want academically and socially, it may not be a realistic option if it’s too expensive. Before visiting, make sure you understand the school’s cost of attendance and the financial aid or scholarship opportunities available. While you’re on campus, ask about financial aid options and any merit-based scholarships or grants that could help offset costs. You Know Yourself After visiting each school, take a moment to reflect on how you felt during the visit. Did you feel welcomed? Did the campus feel like a place where you could thrive? College is about more than just academics—it’s about finding a community that feels like home. Trusting your instincts is key to choosing the school that will be the best fit for you. If something feels off, it’s okay to remove a school from your list. Conversely, if a school feels like it checks all the boxes and you feel excited about the possibility of attending, that’s a strong sign that it might be the right fit. The college visit process is a crucial step in deciding which schools should make it onto your final list. By the end of your visits, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision on where to apply—and where you’ll likely thrive. Happy college hunting! 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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

Tips to craft the perfect college visit plan for high school juniors and seniors shared by college financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

Crafting Your College Visit Plan: How to Build the Perfect Must-See List

Preparing for College / By

Visiting colleges is one of the most exciting parts of the college search process! 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. But with so many schools to choose from, how do you create a plan to visit schools that makes the most sense? Building the perfect “must-see” list requires a balance of excitement and practicality. Start With Your Priorities Before you hit the road, take a moment to think about what’s most important to you in a college. Do you want to go to a large university, or are you more drawn to a smaller, close-knit community? Are academic programs your top priority, or are you looking for a campus with strong student life, sports, and extracurricular activities? Creating a list of priorities will help you determine which colleges should be at the top of your must-see list. Think about the following factors. Make sure you consider size, location, culture, academics, and student life.  Research Each College Thoroughly Once you’ve narrowed down your options based on your priorities, it’s time to dig deeper into each college. Take the time to explore their websites, social media, and online reviews. Pay special attention to academic programs, campus facilities, student life, and campus location/safety.  Plan for a Campus Tour No college visit is complete without a campus tour, but you’ll want to get more out of it than just a walk around campus. Here’s how to maximize your tour experience: Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask your tour guide about things that matter to you! Pay attention to details: Observe the atmosphere on campus. Are students engaged? Is the campus clean and well-maintained? Is the vibe what you expected? Take notes and photos: It’s easy to forget details after a few visits, so jot down your thoughts and take pictures of things you liked (or didn’t like). This will help you later when you’re comparing schools. Attend an info session: Many colleges offer information sessions that give more in-depth details about admissions, financial aid, and campus life. Try to attend one to get a fuller picture of what the school offers. Check Out Academic Buildings Academics are often a huge deciding factor, so it’s important to get a feel for the academic side of the college. Tour specific departments or buildings related to your major. If possible, meet with a professor or someone from the department you’re interested in to get a better sense of the academic culture and support offered. Don’t forget to observe the classroom environment. If it’s possible, sit in on a class or walk through academic buildings when they’re in session to see if the environment feels like a good fit for you. Explore the Campus Outside of the Tour College tours are great, but they don’t always show you everything. After the official tour, take time to explore campus on your own. Walk around the dorms, visit the dining hall, check out the library, and sit in the student lounge. This gives you a better sense of day-to-day life at the school. Also, try to check out the surrounding area. Are there cafes, shops, parks, or other activities nearby? What’s the neighborhood like? Getting a feel for the location outside of the campus can be just as important as what’s inside. Attend an Event or Meet Current Students Try to align your visit with a campus event. Events offer a great opportunity to see the campus in action and interact with current students. Talk to students who are already attending. Ask them about their experiences, what they love (and don’t love) about the school, and what day-to-day life is like. Hearing firsthand accounts from students can help you get a more authentic sense of the college experience. Evaluate Housing and Dining Options On-campus living and food can play a huge role in your overall college experience. Be sure to check out the dormitories, apartment-style living, or any other housing options available. Do they fit your lifestyle? Are the rooms clean, well-maintained, and equipped with what you need? Building the perfect must-see list for your college visits isn’t about seeing every single school on your radar—it’s about focusing on those that align best with your priorities, values, and aspirations. Start with research, plan your visit around what’s most important to you, and make the most of each campus tour.   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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

A student's guide to appealing financial aid offers for college when funding is short shared by financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

How to Advocate for More Aid: A Student’s Guide to Appealing Financial Aid Offers

Pay for College / By

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. For many, financial aid is crucial to making higher education accessible. But sometimes, the aid you initially receive may not fully meet your needs, or unexpected circumstances might affect your ability to pay. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry—here’s my guide to appealing financial aid offers to pay for college! 1.Understand Why You Need More Aid Before appealing for additional aid, it’s important to understand why you’re requesting it. Financial aid packages are usually based on a combination of factors such as family income, assets, and the cost of attendance. However, life events like changes in family income, unexpected medical expenses, or family emergencies can alter your financial situation after the initial aid offer. Knowing what has changed for your situation will allow you to better advocate for your appeal. 2. Review Your Financial Aid Package Thoroughly Review your current financial aid package carefully. This includes not only grants, scholarships, and loans but also any work-study opportunities or other forms of support. Make sure you understand the breakdown and whether there are any errors or discrepancies. It’s important to check that your family’s income and assets have been reported correctly and confirm you’re not eligible for other scholarships or loan programs. 3. Reach Out to the Financial Aid Office Once you’ve determined that you need additional aid, reach out to your school’s financial aid office. Don’t wait for them to come to you—proactively contacting them shows that you’re serious about addressing your financial situation. When you contact the office, ask them for the appropriate steps to take when submitting a financial aid appeal. 4. Craft a Well-Thought-Out Appeal Letter One of the most important parts of your appeal is the letter you send to the financial aid office. This letter is your opportunity to explain your situation, demonstrate your need, and ask for additional aid. A strong appeal letter should be clear, respectful, and detailed. 5. Provide Supporting Documentation Your financial aid office will likely require supporting documentation to validate your claim. This could include tax returns, pay stubs, medical bills, or other relevant paperwork. Make sure to provide all necessary documents, as this will make your case more credible. If you’ve experienced a significant life change, such as a job loss or a change in your family situation, include any official paperwork that supports your case. 6. Be Persistent and Follow Up Once your appeal is submitted, it’s important to follow up. Financial aid offices are often busy, and you want to ensure that your case is being reviewed. If you haven’t heard back after a few weeks, don’t hesitate to send a polite follow-up email asking about the status of your appeal. Be patient and understanding, but also be persistent. Appealing for more financial aid can feel daunting, but it’s important to remember that you’re your best advocate. Schools want to see students succeed, and they often have mechanisms in place to help those facing unexpected challenges. Financial aid is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and your situation is unique. Don’t be afraid to speak up and advocate for yourself. Your education and success are worth fighting for! 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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

What to do when your college financial aid falls short of expectations, tips to close the gap from financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

What to Do When Your College Financial Aid Falls Short of Expectations

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It’s no secret that college is expensive. Higher education becomes even more expensive when students receive their financial aid offers – and they’re smaller than everyone hoped. While opening those offers and realizing there’s a gap between what you can afford and what you’re given is frightening, it isn’t the end of your college journey. Here’s 6 things you can do when your college financial aid falls short of expectations:  1. Reassess your budget.  Start by taking a detailed look at your personal budget to see where you might be able to cut back. Prioritize essential expenses like tuition, books, and housing, while adjusting discretionary spending if possible. Consider cheaper housing options, meal plans, or transportation to reduce costs. This can free up funds for other areas of your education.  2. Understand Your Financial Aid Package Review your award letter carefully to ensure you’re fully understanding what’s offered—scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Sometimes, what looks like a shortfall could be due to misunderstood components of the package. Double-check the accuracy of your financial aid award. If you spot any mistakes or omissions, don’t hesitate to contact the financial aid office to correct them.  3. Contact Your School’s Financial Aid Office  If your financial situation has changed since you applied for aid (e.g., job loss, medical expenses), reach out to your school’s financial aid office to discuss a possible reevaluation of your financial aid package. The fires in LA this year may impact individual situations, so don’t hesitate to reach out if your ability to pay has changed!  Some schools allow students to appeal for additional aid if they can demonstrate extenuating circumstances. Be prepared to provide supporting documentation, such as a letter explaining your situation and any relevant financial documents. 4. Look for Additional Scholarships or Grants There are often many scholarships available that don’t require a full-time student status or are not widely advertised. Many colleges also have departmental or need-based scholarships that you may not have been aware of. Reach out to your academic department or student affairs office to inquire about these opportunities. 5. Consider Federal and Private Loan Options If you haven’t already, look into federal or private student loans. For many people, this is a last resort, but do your research carefully if you decide to go with loans. Be sure to compare terms, interest rates, and repayment plans. Borrow only what you truly need. 6. Look into Work-Study or Part-Time Jobs  If you’re eligible for federal work-study, take advantage of the opportunity to earn money while studying. These jobs are often on campus and designed to accommodate student schedules.If you don’t have work-study or are able to work beyond those hours, look for local part-time jobs or freelance opportunities to boost your income. Closing the gap between the offer you received and what you can pay feels daunting, but with some creativity and research, it is possible to pay for the college of your dreams!  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. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

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