Stay Organized

by Howard Freedman

Copyright 2019 Financial Aid Consulting. All rights reserved. No portion of this article may be reproduced mechanically, electronically, by photocopying or by any other means without expressed written permission of the author. Howard can be reached at finaidguy@gmail.com

Plan Ahead

• Read Making College Happen-The Realties of Coping With College Costs

• Meet with your family to clarify needs and resources to pay for college

• Develop selection criteria roadmaps

• Review majors and employment outlook

• Compare college admission and financial aid

• Create campus visits analytics

• Ensure families communicate effectively

Prepare Timely and Accurate Forms

• Prepare custodial and non-custodial financial aid forms

• Discuss ways to increase financial aid

• Use a qualified financial aid consultant to keep you organized

• Network to find avenues for merit-based aid

• Counsel students to prepare resumes and college essays

Analyze and Appeal Awards

• Analyze financial aid awards

• Write financial aid appeal letters

• Explain how Professional Judgment works

• Recommend ways to obtain additional aid

• Explore alternatives

Finding the Right Solutions

• Offer tools for family budget analysis

• Recommend ways to pay for college

• Explore gap year, employment and military options

• Provide ongoing support as needed

• Earn trust by providing value-added results