How to Read College Financial Aid Letters
So, your student got into college—congrats! But now you’re staring at a financial aid letter that looks more like a puzzle missing a few pieces. Grants, loans, work-study… and where exactly is the part that tells you how much you are actually paying? You’re not alone. Colleges aren’t exactly known for making financial aid letters easy to read. But don’t worry—we’re here to help you decode them like a pro. Start With the Total Cost of Attendance (COA) First things first: Find the college’s Cost of Attendance (COA). This includes tuition, fees, room and board, books, and sometimes a generous [...]
How Parents Can Manage Anxiety During their Teen’s College Admissions Process
Let’s be honest—watching your teen navigate the college decision process can be stressful. It’s a whirlwind of acceptance letters, financial aid offers, campus visits, and “What if they don’t pick the right school?” swirling in your mind. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. The college decision phase is one of the most emotionally charged moments for parents. But here’s the good news—you can survive it (and so can your teen) with a little perspective and a few solid strategies. Recognize That Anxiety Is Normal First, cut yourself some slack. It’s completely normal to feel anxious when your child is making a [...]