College Planning Education

College Planning Education

Planning for a college education will require an investment of your time, as well as creating a college financial blueprint, implementing that blueprint, and monitoring that blueprint.

Is A College Education Affordable

How can college become more affordable? Here is what you need to know. Start the college process early; not all colleges are price equally, so choose wisely, build a robust college application, apply for all financial aid, and scholarships, have a student loan strategy, and compare your award letters.

College Admissions Assistance

While most students will begin in their junior and senior high school years, it doesn't hurt to start the college process even in middle school. The college admissions process and the transition from high school to college can seem overwhelming for any student or family. 

Empowering Your Finance can help with strategies and resources when applying to a college, university, trade school or taking a gap year.

The applying to college is designed to help families navigate the academic and admissions side of college to get the student accepted to the college of his or her dreams. 
Applying to College

 Choosing A College 

There are critical factors in finding the right college and the right fit for your academic studies. Some of these factors are size, location, distance, majors, housing, student body make-up, and athletes. 

We offer a simultaneous side-by-side comparison of academic and financial statistics of up to four (4) colleges at a time. It would help if you were excited about going to college and confident that you would succeed. We can help you narrow the college list.
Research Tips When Choosing a College

 College Application

The college application is your resume/marketing device. It is how you present yourself to a college or university admissions committee. The application is your opportunity to stand out from all the other candidates who apply for admissions. 


You can enhance your college application if you know what they are looking for in the selection process. We can assist and provide valuable information and strategies for completing your college application.

Read More :

The College Application Process

Completing The FAFSA® Reference Guide

Free PDF Download Reference Guide For Applying for Financial Aid and The FAFSA®

There are two types of financial aid: need-based, which is based on your family's ability to pay, and merit-based, which is based on a student's academic, athletic, or special talent. The discussion here focuses primarily on need-based aid.

This 9-page PDF reference guide will explain the overview of the financial aid process and the FAFSA®.    
Applying For Financial Aid - FAFSA®

College FAFSA® Application 

All students need to complete the FAFSA for financial aid. Students and parents can complete the online FAFSA®  application quickly.  Use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to apply for financial aid for college or graduate school. 
 
Seven Things You Need To Fill Out The FAFSA: 2025-2026:
Your FSA ID                         
Your Social Security number
Your driver’s license number / If you have one
Your 2023 tax records
Records of your untaxed income
Records of your assets (money)
List of the school(s) you are interested in attending

The On-Line Free FAFSA® Application

Find Scholarships For College 

Need help searching for a college scholarship? You don't need to be at the top of your class or a star athlete. Any student can apply for this free money. 

We have an extensive database of private scholarships offered by companies, private institutions, and foundations in the U.S. Discover what types of awards are out there and WHERE & WHEN students should apply.
Find Scholarships For College

College Student Loans Options

Many students are financing their college education by taking out student loans. The more you know about types of student loans, the student loan process, and have a loan strategy will help you make a wise decision. 

We help individuals and families with the student loan types, streamline the process, and develop a plan to help them choose the right student loan base on their financial situation.
Federal Student Loans: Direct and Plus Loans

College Financial Aid Award Letter 

Financial aid award letters can be confusing. Figuring out how to fund a college education will be determined by your award letters. One problem is that there are no standard forms or terms that describe the awards letters. 

We will help you understand each award letter offer and make a side-by-side comparison. 
EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO GET THE AWARD LETTERS RIGHT!
Can You Negotiate Award Letters

Stay informed and inspired with Empowering Your  Finance magazine College Planning: Is A College Education Affordable?  On Flipboard! Explore the latest stories, articles, videos, and news on college planning. Simplify your path to higher education. Learn about saving for tuition, navigating financial aid, and preparing for a successful college experience. Click and Follow for expert tips! 


"The things taught in schools and colleges are not an education, but the means to an education."

—Ralph Waldo Emerson

College Planning Glossary
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