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College admissions rejection: a guide for parents to help their student rebuild confidence shared by financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

Rejection Is Redirection: A Parent’s Guide to Helping Teens Refocus

Preparing for College / By

For many high school students, applying to colleges is an exciting and stressful experience. After months of preparation, submitting applications, and eagerly awaiting results, the last thing any teen expects is rejection. Rejection – in any form- can feel like a crushing blow. As a parent, seeing your teen disappointed and unsure about their future is difficult. But here’s an important truth: college admissions rejection is not the end of the road. While it may feel like it in that moment, it is so far from the end! Here’s how to turn this moment of rejection into a new opportunity and direction for your college-bound student!  1. Process the emotions that come with rejection.  Before jumping to solutions, it’s essential to first allow your teen to process their emotions. Rejection can trigger feelings of sadness, frustration, and even shame. Give them the space to express how they feel without minimizing or dismissing their experience. Sometimes, just listening—without offering advice—can be the most supportive thing you can do. 2. Remember that it’s not personal.  One of the hardest parts of rejection is the internalization of failure. No matter how old we are when we “fail” at something, it can feel difficult and personal. Remind your child that this isn’t personal.  In college admissions, decisions are influenced by many factors—some beyond your teen’s control, like institutional needs, applicant competition, and even random chance. Remind your teen that this rejection is simply a part of the process, not a measure of who they are as a person.  3. Consider new opportunities.  Sometimes, rejection opens doors to new possibilities that wouldn’t have been considered otherwise. Use this moment to explore other options that might be a better fit for your teen’s goals, interests, and personality. Look at Other Colleges: If your teen applied to multiple schools, there may still be acceptance offers to consider. Even if not, other universities or programs may offer the right mix of challenges and opportunities for growth. Consider a Gap Year: If your teen feels burned out or unsure about the next step, a gap year can provide valuable time for personal growth. Whether it’s traveling, volunteering, or working, a gap year can provide clarity and new experiences that shape future academic and career choices. Explore Other Career Pathways: Encourage your teen to think beyond the traditional college route. There are many alternatives to a four-year degree. Supporting your teen in exploring all of these avenues can be a powerful way to turn rejection into redirection. 4. Focus on what they love.  Rejection can serve as a great reminder that success is not just about the destination, but the journey. Help them revisit their passions, skills, and accomplishments. Whether they’ve excelled in sports, arts, volunteering, or academics, these strengths are the foundation of their future success. Remind them of what makes them unique – and encourage them to reconnect with those passions.  5. Set New, Positive Goals Once your teen has had time to process their emotions, help them set new goals. Whether it’s reapplying to other schools, applying for scholarships, or starting fresh with a different academic focus, having a clear plan can help them regain focus and confidence. Encourage your teen to break down the process into manageable steps, so they don’t feel overwhelmed.  6. Promote Self-Compassion and Resilience One of the greatest lessons that come from rejection is learning how to bounce back from disappointment. As a parent, you can help your teen develop resilience by promoting self-compassion—teaching them that it’s okay to be imperfect and make mistakes. 7. Stay Positive and Be There for Them As a parent, your support can make all the difference in how your teen responds to rejection. Stay positive, stay patient, and keep offering encouragement. Remind them that while this chapter may not have unfolded as expected, their story is far from over.  Rejection may feel like a dead end, but in reality, it’s often just a redirection to something better. With your support, your teen can not only recover from this setback but emerge stronger, more self-aware, and ready to embrace new opportunities. 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.

Facing college rejection together: a guide for parents to help students build confidence after early application rejection from colleges

Facing College Rejection Together: Building Confidence After Early Applications

Preparing for College / By

For many high school students, early college applications are a huge milestone. They put in countless hours on essays, interviews, and preparing their application materials, only to face the emotional weight of rejection. As a parent, it can be tough to watch your child experience this disappointment, but it’s important to remember that rejection is not a reflection of their worth or future potential. Here’s 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. It’s okay to feel disappointed, frustrated, or even angry. Creating a safe space to talk openly about these feelings is the first step toward healing. Parents, let your child express themselves without judgment or trying to immediately “fix” the situation. Validation goes a long way. 2. Find the Bigger Picture While it’s easy to focus on what was lost, help your student see the bigger picture. College acceptance is just one chapter of a much larger story. Some of the world’s most successful people were once in the same position—facing rejection from schools they thought were their perfect match. Rejection can open the door to unexpected opportunities, whether that means exploring other colleges or taking a gap year to gain life experience. 3. Highlight the Wins Encourage your child to focus on what they’ve achieved so far. From perfecting their application to securing other college offers or scholarships, these milestones are worth celebrating. Rejection doesn’t erase the hard work they’ve already put in. This is a chance to teach resilience and perseverance—valuable skills that will serve them well in life. 4. Take Practical Next Steps Rejection doesn’t mean it’s over. Whether it’s applying to other schools, revisiting transfer options, or looking into gap year programs, there are always alternatives. Discuss your family’s options together and plan next steps. Taking action helps students regain a sense of control and purpose. 5. Re-Build Confidence College rejections are part of the journey, not the destination. By framing this experience as a learning opportunity, you can help your child build confidence for the future. Encourage them to stay focused on their strengths and remind them that many paths can lead to success. Rejection can be tough, but facing it together—parents and students—builds resilience and creates a stronger foundation for the challenges ahead. With your support, your student will emerge more confident, with a clear sense of their own worth and potential.  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.

Finding strength after college rejection: 5 tips for high school students from college financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

When Early Isn’t Enough: Finding Strength After College Rejection

Preparing for College / By

Receiving a college rejection letter can feel like a sudden end to a dream you’ve worked tirelessly for as a high school student. The sense of disappointment, confusion, and even shame can be overwhelming. If you’re a student who’s received an early admission rejection for the college of your dreams, know that you’re not alone. Thousands of students experience college rejection each year, and while it’s never fun or enjoyable, now is the time to find strength after college rejection.  As a financial aid expert, I know how much planning and dedication goes into preparing for college.  However, when the letter arrives, it can feel as though all that hard work has been in vain. But remember: early rejection doesn’t mean the end of your educational journey. Here’s a few of my favorite ways to rebuild after that rejection.  1. Acknowledge the Emotions, But Don’t Stay Stuck in Them It’s normal to feel devastated after a rejection, especially when you’ve envisioned your future at a specific college. You may experience feelings of anger, sadness, and even self-doubt. These emotions are valid and should be acknowledged. However, it’s essential not to stay trapped in them. Recognize your feelings, then take proactive steps to reframe your mindset. 2. Evaluate Your Options—Don’t Rush to a Decision After a rejection, take some time to evaluate your remaining options. If you applied to other schools, check their decision timelines. Some institutions offer rolling admissions or have later deadlines for financial aid and scholarships, so it’s worth considering whether other offers are a better fit. If there’s another school that you were interested in with rolling admissions, now may be time to submit your application. But, if you’re not in a position to attend your dream school this fall, don’t rush to settle. There’s nothing wrong with taking a gap year, applying to other schools, or considering community college or other transfer options.  3. Review Your Application & Goals Reflect on your personal strengths and goals. This is also an ideal time to review your application and determine where to make possible changes for future rounds. Your educational journey is uniquely yours—don’t let a single rejection define the entire experience. 4. Let Rejection Motivate You Rejection can be a powerful motivator. The key is to channel your energy into something positive. Whether it’s reworking your application for next year or looking for new opportunities to grow, this experience can serve as the catalyst for personal and professional development. 5. Reach Out for Support Don’t face this moment alone. Talk to mentors, teachers, and family members who can provide guidance and encouragement. The people in your life want to see you succeed, and sometimes just knowing that you’re not alone in your struggle can be a powerful reminder that this moment is temporary. College rejection doesn’t define your worth. It’s simply one chapter of a much larger journey, and there are countless paths to success that don’t rely on a single acceptance letter. Whether you choose to reapply next year, consider transfer opportunities, or take a different route altogether, know that your dreams are still valid, and your educational experience is still within reach.  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.

When early decision college applications don't work out: a guide for parents and students from college financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

When Early Decision College Applications Don’t Work Out: A Guide for Students and Parents

Preparing for College / By

Early decision application responses are being sent out and for some students, their college dreams are falling apart. After committing the time to create the dream college list and working hard to finalize applications – hearing crickets or receiving that decline now can be devastating. A rejection for early decision applications hurts. But, I want to remind you that this news doesn’t have to be the end of your college journey. Take some time to feel how you’re feeling now, but when you’re ready – here’s a great back up plan for your college admissions! Be patient:   This is especially true if your application was deferred. Unless it’s a downright “no,” there is still the possibility that you might be accepted in the second wave of application reviews. In some cases it’s not over until it’s over. So, it might just be a matter of waiting a little longer. You can still make alternative back-up plans. But don’t give up hope completely if you had your heart set on one college. Reassess your initial strategy:  Some students can get very interested in one particular college in the rush to apply. You might not realize that it was out of your reach all along, or maybe you ignored another great college where you could be a standout student. Take a moment to review your options and the other schools you initially considered.  Rethink your application: When you’re ready, take an honest look at your application and think about whether or not it really presented your potential in the best possible light. If not, it’s time to reconsider your application approach. You can also have a trusted and unbiased individual help you look it over like a guidance or career counselor. If there’s something you want to change, now is the time to do so before submitting new applications.  Check out new possibilities:  Go over your initial list of colleges again, and revisit those you might have overlooked the first time. Check out their websites and their regular admission deadlines. Use your focus to apply to them, using whatever you’ve learned from this first round of applications.  Reflect:  This is a time to reflect on what may have made your application stand out more or if you are really ready for this journey. Not every student needs or wants to start college right after high school graduation. It may be worth considering that this isn’t the possibility you actually want right now. If it is, then it’s time to regroup and send in more applications! It can be hard to not take this rejection personally but consider a time for reflection and growth.  If you do apply to any colleges that were not on your original list – be sure to add those colleges to your completed FAFSA. This gives them the opportunity to consider your financial circumstances, in the event you are accepted and do qualify for financial aid. Focus on the positives and remember that you now have the opportunity to compare financial aid packages and admissions offers from multiple schools during the Regular Decision process. That’s such an exciting moment to look forward to this spring! Not getting accepted into your early decision or early action college choice can be a disappointment, but it does not have to ruin your senior year. You’ve got this!  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 the FAFSA Deadlines: Don’t Miss Out on Money for College! Tips from college financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

Understanding the FAFSA Deadlines: Don’t Miss Out on Money for College!

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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 it’s not just about submitting the FAFSA — you need to be aware of the deadlines to make sure you don’t miss out on the financial assistance you need. FAFSA deadlines can vary depending on where you live, where you’re going to school, and what kind of aid you’re applying for so it’s important to pay attention.   Why FAFSA Deadlines Matter The FAFSA is the key to unlocking a variety of financial aid options, including federal grants, work-study programs, and loans. It’s also used by most states and colleges to determine eligibility for state financial aid and institutional scholarships. Each of these funding sources has its own deadlines, which means it’s important to keep track of them all. Missing the FAFSA deadline can lead to missing out on significant financial aid opportunities.  Key FAFSA Deadlines You Need to Know There are three main deadlines you should be aware of when filling out your FAFSA: Federal Deadline: The federal deadline for submitting the FAFSA is set by the U.S. Department of Education, and it’s the most straightforward deadline to remember. For the 2024-2025 FAFSA, the federal deadline is June 30, 2025. Even though the federal deadline is in June, don’t wait until the last minute to submit. You should aim to complete your FAFSA as soon as possible.  State Deadlines: Each state has its own FAFSA deadline for state-based financial aid, such as grants and scholarships. Some states have rolling deadlines, while others have specific cutoffs, often in February or March before the school year begins. School-Specific Deadlines: Colleges and universities often set their own FAFSA deadlines for institutional aid, such as scholarships or grants provided by the school itself. These deadlines can be significantly earlier than the federal or state deadlines and may vary depending on the school. Many schools require students to submit their FAFSA by November 1 (for early action or early decision applicants) or March 1 (for regular decision applicants) to be considered for institutional aid. Why You Shouldn’t Wait: The Importance of Early FAFSA Submission While the FAFSA deadlines may seem far off, early submission is always a smart strategy. Financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis for many programs. Submitting your FAFSA early gives you the best chance of securing need-based federal grants. Additionally, mistakes happen. So, if you have to correct your application all, you want more time to do so. Waiting until the last minute leaves little time for corrections, which could delay the processing of your aid. Some state programs and institutional scholarships have limited funds. Once that funding runs out, it’s gone — and if you haven’t submitted your FAFSA, you won’t be eligible for those awards. Submitting early ensures you’re considered for all available funding before it runs out. Finally, submitting your FAFSA early can reduce stress. Knowing that you’ve completed an important step in your college journey means you can focus on other things, like applying to schools or preparing for standardized tests. FAFSA deadlines are your gateway to securing financial aid for college, so it’s important to stay on top of them. The sooner you submit, the better your chances of receiving the most aid possible. Don’t wait until the last minute! By submitting your FAFSA early and ensuring you meet all relevant deadlines,  you’ll be setting yourself up for a smoother college financial journey.  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 Look at What Happens After Submitting the FAFSA: a breakdown of what to do next from Jodi Okun, a financial aid advisor

A Look at What Happens After Submitting the FAFSA

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Submitting your Free Application for Federal Student Aid is a huge milestone in the college application process, but it’s just the beginning of your financial aid journey. After hitting that “submit” button, a few important things happen behind the scenes to determine your eligibility for financial aid. So, what exactly should you expect next? Here’s a breakdown of the next steps after you submit your FAFSA. 1. Confirmation of Submission Once you submit your FAFSA, you’ll receive a confirmation that your application has been successfully submitted. This confirmation will include a Student Aid Report (SAR), which summarizes the information you provided on your FAFSA. It’s important to review this report for any errors or missing information. 2. Student Aid Index (SAI) Calculation Once your FAFSA is processed and any verification is completed, the federal government will calculate your Student Aid Index (SAI). This is essentially used to determine your ability to pay for college and the amount of aid you should receive. It replaces the old Expected Family Contribution. One other big change is that parents no longer receive a benefit for sending multiple children though college at the same time.  3. Receiving Financial Aid Offers After your FAFSA has been processed, each college or university you’ve applied to will receive your FAFSA data. The school’s financial aid office will then use this information to create a financial aid package for you. You will receive your financial aid offer from each school in the form of an award letter. 4. Reviewing and Comparing Financial Aid Packages Once you receive your financial aid offers, take the time to carefully review each one. Financial aid packages can vary significantly from school to school, so it’s important to compare them to see which one offers the best financial assistance. Pay close attention to grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans offered. The payback options for each of these differ and should be carefully considered.  5. Accepting Your Financial Aid Once you’ve reviewed and compared your offers, you can begin the process of accepting your financial aid. For each school, you’ll need to accept or decline the aid package sent to you. Be sure to complete the paperwork and sign off on any letters they send.  Remember, FAFSA needs to be submitted each year to continue receiving federal financial aid. Your family’s financial situation may change, so it’s important to reapply for FAFSA to ensure you’re receiving the financial aid you’re eligible for.  Submitting your FAFSA is the first step toward securing financial aid for college, but there are several key steps that follow to ensure you get the most out of the process. Good luck!  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.

5 Common FAFSA Myths Debunked: tips to find money for college from financial aid advisor Jodi Okun from College Financial Aid Advisors

5 Common FAFSA Myths Debunked: How to Pay for College

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The FAFSA is an important part of the college application process, but it can feel a little bit larger than life if you’ve 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. However, by not submitting the FAFSA, families and students are missing out on potential aid to help pay for school! That’s why I’m busting 5 FAFSA myths so you can feel more confident about applying this year! Myth: “I Won’t Qualify for Aid, So I Don’t Need to Apply.”  Fact: Many families are surprised to learn they qualify for grants, work-study, or low-interest loans, regardless of income level. Whether or not you think you’re going to qualify, it’s always worth submitting your application. You never know what might come of it – and if you don’t, there’s definitely no way you’ll receive aid!  Myth: “FAFSA is Only for Federal Aid.”  FAFSA is used by states and colleges to determine eligibility for their own financial aid programs, making it crucial even if you don’t expect federal aid. Again, if you don’t apply, you’ll never know. So make the time to submit your FAFSA as soon as possible!  Myth: “You Only Need to Submit FAFSA Once.”  FAFSA must be submitted every year to maintain eligibility for financial aid throughout college. Make sure you pay attention to the deadlines each year, otherwise you will not receive any aid for that year of school. Many students forget about this and wind up losing out on aid!  Myth: “I should wait until I’m accepted to complete the FAFSA.” Fact: Once you know that you’re applying to schools and the application is open, you should file the FAFSA! Don’t wait for acceptance letters to arrive. Instead, complete your application. You’ll have to list at least one school to submit the application, but you can add up to 20 so feel free to add any you plan to apply to.  Myth: “It costs money to submit the FAFSA.” Nope! If you’re paying for FAFSA, something is wrong. Now, help – like College Financial Aid Advisors – may help you prepare the application for a fee. But submitting the actual FAFSA is completely free!  Now that you know a little more about the FAFSA, it’s time to submit your application! Take your time and check for accuracy, add your schools, and turn it in so you can hopefully qualify for funding. Best of luck!  Who We Are CFAA helps with the financial aid process, 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. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

College financial aid advisor Jodi Okun shares 5 FAFSA updates that could impact students' financial aid this year

5 Big FAFSA Updates That Will Impact Your Financial Aid This Year

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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 what’s going on. This can help to maximize your eligibility for aid and financial aid funding. Here’s a breakdown of the top 5 changes to the FAFSA this year that you should know about: 1. A Major Overhaul One of the most noticeable changes is the reduction in the number of questions on the FAFSA form. Previously, there were over 100 questions. Now the form has been streamlined to just 36 questions, making it easier and faster to complete. This change is designed to improve accessibility for all students and reduce barriers to financial aid. 2. Elimination of the Expected Family Contribution  Perhaps the most significant change for students and families is the replacement of the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) with the Student Aid Index (SAI).  The SAI, which replaces the EFC, is a more accurate and fair way to calculate need-based financial aid, especially for students from low-income backgrounds. This change also includes a more flexible approach to family circumstances and eliminates some of the complexities that were previously a barrier for many applicants. 3. Changes to Dependent Status Criteria This year, there are new rules for determining whether a student is considered a “dependent” or “independent” student. The old system used a series of questions to determine dependency status, but now the criteria have been expanded. The new rules clarify which students can qualify as independent, particularly those who are veterans, married, or emancipated minors.  4. Increased Pell Grant Eligibility The FAFSA changes also come with an expansion of Pell Grant eligibility. The maximum Pell Grant award has increased, and more students will qualify for this need-based aid. This is especially beneficial for low-income students who rely heavily on Pell Grants to fund their education. With adjustments to the income thresholds and the elimination of some outdated criteria, more students will receive the full Pell Grant award. Hopefully this makes higher education more affordable! 5. The Introduction of Prior-Prior Year (PPY) Income Reporting The change to the reporting of income on the FAFSA, known as Prior-Prior Year (PPY), allows students to use tax information from two years prior, rather than one. This adjustment allows families to file the FAFSA earlier in the academic year and ensures that students can access financial aid information sooner. This change has already been in effect for several years but remains important, as it helps streamline the process and allows for quicker processing of financial aid packages. These updates can make applying for financial aid more straightforward, but they also require students and their families to stay informed. With simplified forms and earlier access to tax information, it’s easier to submit your FAFSA as soon as possible, which can increase your chances of receiving financial aid.  Submit your application as soon as you can! Good luck! 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.

The ultimate checklist for completing the FAFSA as a high school student shared by college financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

The Ultimate Checklist for Completing The FAFSA

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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. Whether this is your first time applying or you’re a seasoned pro, this ultimate checklist will guide you through every step to ensure you don’t miss anything crucial. 1. Create Your FSA ID Before you even start filling out the FAFSA, you’ll need an FSA ID (Federal Student Aid ID). This will act as your electronic signature, and you’ll use it to sign and submit your application. How to do it: Go to fsaid.ed.gov to create your ID. You’ll need to provide your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and other details. Pro Tip: Keep your FSA ID safe and don’t share it with anyone, as it’s like your personal password to all things FAFSA-related. 2. Gather Your Documents The FAFSA asks for a lot of personal and financial info, so it’s best to have everything ready before you start. The FAFSA will pull your tax information from the IRS, but it’s good to have other documents ready. Here’s a list of the most common documents you’ll need: Social Security Number (SSN) Driver’s License number (if applicable) W-2 Forms (or your most recent pay stubs if you don’t have W-2s) Bank Statements and records of savings and investments Records of Untaxed Income (if applicable, such as child support, veteran’s benefits, etc.) 3. List the Colleges You’re Applying To You can list up to 10 colleges or universities on the FAFSA. They’ll all receive your financial aid information automatically, so make sure you include every school you’re considering applying to. Even if you haven’t made a decision yet, it’s a good idea to list multiple schools. 4. Fill Out the FAFSA Form Now it’s time to start filling out the actual FAFSA! You can do this online at fafsa.gov, or you can download the myStudentAid app on your phone. Make sure to enter everything as accurately as possible. Personal Information: This includes your name, address, SSN, and more. School Information: Enter the schools you listed earlier. Financial Information: This is where your parents (if you’re a dependent student) will need to provide their income and tax info. Dependency Status: The FAFSA will ask if you’re a dependent or independent student. Most high school seniors will be considered dependent, meaning your parents’ info is required. 5. Double-Check Everything Before you hit submit, take a moment to review all of your answers. Double-check your personal information, school choices, and financial details to ensure there are no mistakes. A small error (like a typo in your SSN) can delay the process, so be thorough! 6. Sign and Submit Once everything is filled out correctly, it’s time to sign the FAFSA. If you’re a dependent student, your parents will also need to sign it. You can sign electronically with your FSA ID. After you’ve signed, hit submit!  You’ll receive a confirmation page with a submission number. Save this for your records! 7. Follow Up After submitting the FAFSA, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR). This report summarizes the information you provided and tells you your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). It’s important to review your SAR to make sure there are no mistakes. Your chosen schools will use this information to determine how much financial aid you’re eligible for. You may be asked to provide additional documents, so be prepared. Why It’s Worth Completing the FAFSA Completing the FAFSA opens the door to a range of financial aid options, from federal grants to loans to work-study opportunities. Even if you think you might not qualify for aid, you should still apply—many students are surprised by the amount of aid they receive! By following this checklist and staying organized, you’ll be on your way to securing the financial support you need for college. Start early, stay on top of deadlines, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you get stuck. Good luck!  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.

Why a regular decision college application is your best option for comparing financial aid offers from financial aid advisor Jodi Okun

Regular Decision: Your Best Option for Comparing Financial Aid Offers to Pay for College

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As a high school senior, you’re facing one of the biggest decisions of your life: where to go to college. But this decision isn’t just about choosing the school with the best programs, campus vibe, or student culture. It’s also about how to make it work financially. That’s where the timing of your college applications can have a big impact. While options like Early Action and Early Decision may sound appealing for getting a jumpstart on the admissions process, if financial aid is a priority for you, Regular Decision might be your best bet. Here’s why applying through Regular Decision gives you more time and flexibility to evaluate your financial aid options, compare offers from multiple schools, and make the best financial choice for you and your family. What Is Regular Decision? Regular Decision is the standard college application process. For most schools, the RD deadline falls in January (typically January 1st or 15th), and applicants usually receive their admissions decisions in March or April. Unlike Early Decision, which is binding, Regular Decision gives you time to consider multiple schools and financial aid offers before making your final commitment, which is due by May 1st. Why Regular Decision Gives You More Time to Compare Financial Aid Offers #1: Financial Aid Packages Arrive After Acceptance One of the most significant advantages of applying Regular Decision is that you’ll typically receive both your admission decision and your financial aid package around the same time (usually in March or April). This means you can compare not only the acceptance offers from multiple schools but also the financial aid packages that come with them. This timing is crucial for making a fully informed decision about which school fits your academic and financial needs. It ensures you can weigh all options side-by-side, allowing you to pick the best value for your family. #2. You Can Apply to Multiple Schools and Compare Offers Unlike Early Action, where you might only have one offer to evaluate, applying Regular Decision gives you the freedom to apply to multiple schools. After receiving your acceptance and financial aid packages, you can compare the offers from different schools to determine which one offers the best value. In particular, you’ll be able to compare grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study – all with the cost of attendance. By comparing the full financial picture, including tuition, room and board, and any additional fees, you can get a clearer sense of what you’ll need to pay. #3. You Have More Time to Make Financial Adjustments If your family’s financial situation changes after applying, Regular Decision allows more flexibility to address those changes. Whether your parent’s job status shifts or unexpected expenses arise, you’ll have time to adjust your financial aid application and communicate with schools about your circumstances. Additionally, if your financial aid package isn’t sufficient, you’ll have more time to appeal or negotiate for additional funding. #4. You Can Maximize Scholarship Opportunities Many colleges and universities offer merit-based scholarships to Regular Decision applicants, particularly those who apply by the school’s priority deadlines. 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. More Time to Submit Financial Aid Forms For students applying Regular Decision, the financial aid deadlines may align more closely with when the family has completed their taxes and other financial documents. Since the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) opens on October 1st (December 1st this year!) each year, Regular Decision gives you more time to ensure your financial aid forms are complete and submitted accurately before the official deadline. While applying Early Action may be appealing for students eager to know their college fate early, Regular Decision is often the best choice for families who want to make a fully informed decision about both college admissions and financial aid. Remember, the college decision is not just about where you’ll thrive academically, but also where you can afford to attend. Good luck with your college planning, and remember to prioritize both your academic goals and financial needs! 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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