GradBetter is a powerful tool that helps students understand how much merit aid they might receive from colleges—and even helps them appeal for more. If you’re applying to college or in the final stages of comparing offers, this guide will walk you through how to make the most of your GradBetter account. GradBetter Student Tutorial How to Create a GradBetter …
How to Choose the Best College for Your Major
Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student will make, and selecting the right school for their intended major is crucial. While factors like campus life, location, and cost matter, ensuring that a college provides strong academic support and career opportunities in a chosen field should be a top priority. Here’s how students can effectively evaluate …
FAFSA Issues
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a critical tool for students seeking financial support for higher education in the United States. However, recent developments have introduced FAFSA issues that could impact students’ access to necessary funding.​ Delayed Rollout and Technical Glitches In December 2023, the Department of Education launched a revamped FAFSA form aimed at simplifying the …
Time Management: Your Key to Thriving in College and Beyond
Time management is more than just a skill — it’s a survival tool, especially for students juggling classes, extracurricular activities, social lives, and personal responsibilities. Learning to manage your time effectively doesn’t just help you get better grades; it sets the foundation for success in college and beyond. The College Balancing Act College life comes with newfound freedom, but also …
How Merit Scholarships Can Pay Off Big!
Every year, thousands of dollars in scholarship money go unclaimed — money that could help students like you reduce the cost of college and graduate with less debt. If you’re a high school student or a parent, understanding merit scholarships is a game-changer. Let’s break it down and explore how you can tap into this valuable resource! What Are Merit …
Why a CSS Profile School Can Be Best for Middle-Income Families
Navigating the college application process can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding financial aid. For middle-income families, choosing a school that requires the CSS Profile can be a game-changer. Let’s break down why these schools might be the perfect fit for balancing quality education and affordability. What Is the CSS Profile? The College Scholarship Service Profile is an …
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the gateway to securing financial aid for college. Completing the FAFSA opens doors to federal grants, work-study opportunities, and loans, as well as aid from states and schools. What Is FAFSA? FAFSA is an application that determines your eligibility for financial aid. It’s used by the federal government, states, and colleges …
Institutional Merit Application
When it comes to financing a college education, scholarships and merit aid can play a pivotal role in reducing costs. While many families are familiar with federal aid programs and private scholarships, Institutional Merit Aid—offered directly by colleges—can be a game-changer. Some schools require students to complete an Institutional Merit Application to be considered for these funds. Here’s what you …
The CSS Profile
When planning for college, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is often the first step families take to secure financial aid. However, if you’re applying to certain private colleges or universities, you may also encounter the CSS Profile—a more detailed financial aid application managed by the College Board. What Is the CSS Profile? The CSS Profile, short for …
NYS TAP – Tuition Assistance Program
New York State (NYS) is home to world-class educational institutions, but for many families, affording college tuition can be a challenge. The New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is a vital resource designed to help eligible New York residents cover tuition costs at approved in-state colleges and universities. What is NYS TAP? The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is a …