Congratulations! If you’re reading this, it likely means you’ve said “yes” to a college offer. That’s a big deal, and I hope you’ve taken a moment to celebrate this milestone. As a financial aid advisor, I’ve seen this moment come with a mix of joy, relief, and a dozen new questions. That’s completely normal—and I’m here to help you through what comes next. Now that you’ve told the college that you’re attending, the fun begins to start preparing for your big move later this summer! Here’s what you need to do:
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Confirm Your Enrollment (If You Haven’t Already)
Even if you’ve told everyone on social media, make it official. Most schools require a formal response—usually a signed intent to enroll and a deposit.. If the enrollment deposit is a financial burden, reach out to the admissions or financial aid office. Some colleges offer deposit waivers.
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Set Up (and Check!) Your Student Portal and Email
This will become your new communications hub. Colleges will send important information about housing, orientation, tuition bills, and financial aid here—not to your personal email. Check your portal weekly. Mark deadlines on a calendar. Being proactive now can save you stress later.
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Review and Accept Your Financial Aid Package
Take a close look at your financial aid award. It likely includes a mix of grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study. Decide what to accept and complete any follow-up steps that you can now, like signing a Master Promissory Note (MPN) for federal loans. You will also be expected to complete entrance exam counseling for first-time loan borrowers. Finally, don’t forget to accept or deny aid in your college portal!
If you have questions—or if something doesn’t look right—your financial aid office is here for you. That’s what I’m here for too!
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Set Up a Plan to Pay the Balance
Even with financial aid, many students still have a remaining balance. Colleges usually offer payment plans that spread this out over the semester or year. Be sure that you know when tuition is due. Some schools may offer payment plans, so look into that if you need additional help breaking things up! Don’t forget to review your scholarships or extra savings you plan to use to pay.
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Complete Housing and Orientation Requirements
If you’re living on campus, watch for housing application deadlines. Orientation is also key—it’s your first real step into college life and often required before registering for classes. It’s important to stay on top of deadlines and sign up dates for everything leading up to move-in, so watch your portal announcements carefully.
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Submit Final Documents
Most schools will ask for final high school transcripts and possibly immunization records or placement test scores. These items can hold up your registration if not submitted on time.
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Get Excited!
This is a season of preparation and transition. You don’t need to have all the answers today. Just keep showing up, asking questions, and checking off the steps.
And remember: You’re not alone. Your college’s staff, your financial advisor (like me), orientation leaders, professors, and support offices—are all cheering you on. Saying “yes” to college opens the door to something new and exciting.. Your next chapter is just beginning, and it’s going to be a good one.
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.