Hello! I'm a junior in high school, and I'm starting to look at colleges. I know that I'll need financial aid, but I'm not sure how to determine if a college's financial aid package will be enough for me. What should I look for? Thanks for your help!
Hi there! It's great that you're starting to think about college and financial aid early on. I've been through this process with my own child, so I'd be happy to share some tips to help you determine if a college's financial aid package will be sufficient for your needs. First, make sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as it becomes available. This will give you an idea of the federal aid you're eligible for, such as grants, work-study, and loans. Next, research each college's financial aid policies on their websites. Look for information about need-based and merit-based aid, as well as any scholarships they offer. Additionally, many colleges have a Net Price Calculator on their websites that can give you an estimate of the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses. Subtract any financial aid you're eligible for from the total cost to get an idea of your out-of-pocket expenses. Finally, don't hesitate to reach out to the colleges' financial aid offices with questions or concerns. They can provide more information about their specific offerings and help you understand the process. Best of luck in your college search!
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