3 factors to help you strategize your college finances
It is a common fact that any and every student can reap benefits from their college through college financial planning. The heart of the matter lies in how you approach this option. The second half of the year is a good time to start hunting for good colleges, while also keeping an eye out for ones that offer the best kind of financial aid.
It’s estimated that $4 billion have been allocated for financial aid for a college degree.
So, how do you get about avoiding debt and planning your college finances?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Starting in October, you’re eligible to file a FAFSA, so make sure that’s the first thing you get done. It is a general collection of all details about your family income, which is then sent to the colleges you wish to apply for. They will ask for all the numbers of your tax forms, but its all worth the effort. This is a definite prerequisite, so delaying it doesn’t help in any way.
Title prices are NOT real
When you are stressing over all the prices next to the courses you wish to apply for, it would be good to remind yourself that those are rarely the actual prices students and their families end up paying. The price on the list is not the real price. Go out of your way with your FAFSA, and always take the first step in asking for any extra scholarships you qualify for. Ask the important questions, and be confident in your abilities.
Don’t underestimate merit discount
College financial planning will surely get you the financial aid that you wish to get. Moreover, you can definitely take it a step further with the option of a merit aid. This is completely separate from your family’s financial ability to pay for university. You’ll have to ask and make a show of your confidence in your skills. This could be everything from athleticism, to merit in certain subjects, or any merit tests you may have undertaken that you excelled in.
Your parents and maybe even your extended family may be working hard to save all they can to provide for college tuition, but you as a student can always do your part.
