3 Tips to Navigate College Selection and Financial Aid Packages

It's no secret- education can be expensive! But understanding financial aid packages can make a huge difference in making the right decision. Whether you're staring at your first offer letter or trying to figure out how to stretch your dollars further, the following tips break down exactly what you need to do to get more money for school without the financial stress that too many students face.

1. Review Your Financial Aid Offer

   
   

When that financial aid package arrives, look for:

• Grants & Scholarships (free money—no repayment!)

• Loans (understand if they’re subsidized or unsubsidized)

• Work-Study Opportunities (a way to earn money while in school)

If anything seems unclear, contact the financial aid office for clarification.

2. Negotiate Your Financial Aid Package (If Needed)

   
   

If your financial award isn’t enough, or if you received a better offer from another school, you can negotiate your financial aid! Send an appeal letter. Here’s how:

• Highlight any financial changes (e.g., job loss, medical expenses)

• Show competing offers (if another school gave you a better deal, use it as leverage)

• Be polite and specific. Clearly state why you need more aid and how it will affect your ability to attend.

3. Apply for More Scholarships (Even After Submitting Your Applications!)

Don’t stop searching for scholarships after submitting applications. Do this instead:

• Look for institutional and private scholarships

• Use sites like College Board’s Scholarship Search and Bold.org.

• Set aside weekly time to apply for at least 1-2 scholarships!

In conclusion, review what you're offered, speak up when you need more help, and constantly hunt for extra scholarship dollars. You can seriously cut down on what you'll pay (and owe later) if you dedicate time to researching scholarship and grant opportunities. Don't be shy about calling financial aid offices - they are here to serve you!

With careful planning and these strategic approaches, you can make your education dreams more affordable and focus on what truly matters: your education journey and future career. The effort you invest now in securing adequate financial aid will pay dividends throughout your educational years and beyond