College Planning Partners Blog

A recent feature in the Wall Street Journal's Personal Finance section details the dire state of college aid--from declining endowments and tight budgets at private schools to empty state coffers and huge tuition hikes at state schools.

Fortunately, strategies previously shared only among the wealthy and financially sophisticated still work for families of any means--even in a down economy.

As you weigh competing aid packages at your student's favorite schools, consider these "late-stage" strategies for reducing your college expense:

Get a detailed review of your FAFSA and other financial aid forms by a qualified professional to ensure you haven't overstated your assets or misreported key income or expense information. You may be able to improve your case if you can show your home has declined in value. Some schools also factor private school tuition for siblings or medical expenses into their aid formulas.
Consider appealing your award, particularly if your aid package is not consistent with the school's previous giving history or your financial circumstances have changed significantly from your original application for financial aid.
For additional Short-Term and Long-Term strategies, view the Wall Street Journal article HERE.

As always, you can contact any of us here at College Planning Partners for a brief telephone consultation or full Diagnostic Evaluation of your college plan. It's free and could be the difference in making your Dream School more than just a dream.