How to Compare Financial Aid OffersFebruary/March 2024
For many families, financial aid letters will be late this spring due to delayed FAFSA processing, but when you receive it, here's what to look at.
View Article In PDF Format
How to Pay for College Without LoansAugust 2023
It's not easy to pay for college without loans -- in fact, many people can't do it -- but if you're super strategic about where you go, choose cost-saving measures like commuting from home, or opt for a less traditional pathway, it may be possible.
View Article Online
The Calculations Every Family Needs to Run Before Borrowing for CollegeAugust 2021
Most families can't afford college costs without borrowing, but taking on too much debt can get you in trouble. What to know about these costs.
View Article Online
What to Know About Borrowing for College for Multiple ChildrenSeptember 2021
If you're borrowing for multiple kids, it's easy to get upside down fast. Here's what to know about taking on debt for college: student loans, private student loans, and parent loans.
View Article Online
16 Cheap Essentials That Every Dorm Room NeedsNovember 2021
Most of the time, students take too much stuff to college, but there are some things you actually do need. Here are some ideas for every student.
View Article Online
Student Loan Scams in 2022: They're Ramping Up and They're Incredibly CleverApril 2022
Student loan scams abound. If you don't have an outstanding loan, it's easy to recognize a phishing attempt, but many people end up victimized by student loan scams. Here's what to watch out for.
View Article Online
All About Tuition Reciprocity at Out-of-State UniversitiesOctober 2021
Have you heard of regional compacts? The US has four of them, and participating colleges may offer discounted tuition to students from the region. Each compact operates a bit differently, and not all participating colleges offer discounted tuition for every program. It takes research, but you could turn up a gem you didn't know about.
View Article Online
Important Steps to Learn Smart Money Borrowing Practices for CollegeMay 2022
If your family needs to take more loans than the federal student loan limit, talk it through with your student. What do you expect them to pay back? Will you be contributing? Can they handle the loan limit? Can you? Steps here to consider.
View Article Online
Direct Admission at Colleges: What to Know and How to Get Instantly AcceptedMay 2023
Direct admission is a new strategy some colleges are starting to use. The goal is to simplify the application process for students. Read on to learn about how it's being used and where you can find it.
View Article Online
Breaking Down Important State Guaranteed Admission Systems for YouJuly 2023
Some states want to make college admission easier for their resident students. Here's which states are admitting students directly and how to get in on it.
View Article Online
The Most Important Things to Know About the Upcoming FAFSA ChangesJuly 2023
The 2024-25 FAFSA is undergoing the most significant overhaul in decades. There are winners and losers with this version. Learn what's new so you can plan for college costs a year from now.
View Article Online
4 Myths About College Scholarships That Could Cost YouFebruary 2023
If you don't know how scholarships work, it's easy to assume you can find them anywhere. But there's a bit more to it than that. I bust some popular ideas here and explain where to find the best scholarships.
View Article Online
Yes, Colleges Really Can Cut Your Financial Aid if You Win Other ScholarshipsApril 2023
You'd think all your outside scholarships would help you, right? But if you qualify for need-based aid, your private scholarships could reduce that aid, leaving you back at square one. It's complicated. Here's what to know.
View Article Online
When is the FAFSA Due?June 2023
You can fill out the FAFSA for federal aid all the way up until June 30, but there are other deadlines to know about. Here's why you shouldn't skip filling it out.
View Article Online
Guide to College Grants and ScholarshipsJune 2023
Do you know the difference between grants and scholarships? This piece breaks it all down and includes tips on the best places to find free money.
View Article Online
This Student Loan Loophole Could Cut Parent Plus Debt Payments in HalfMarch 2022
Parents are one of the fastest segments of student loan borrowers, and it's hurting their retirement. This piece explains the double consolidation process to qualify for income-driven repayment plans.
View Article Online
3 Ways College Financial Aid Letters Can Confuse Families -- and What to Do About itMarch 2022
Analyzing college financial aid letters is tough for the savviest families, so if you're new to the process, you're not alone in your confusion. Here's what to understand.
View Article Online
Colleges are Hiking Tuition This Fall Amid Sky-High InflationJuly 2022
Colleges are raising tuition this fall because they're caught in the same inflation bind that families are. Make sure you've filled out the FAFSA so you qualify for all that you're eligible for.
View Article Online
5 College Admissions Officers on Their Best Tips for ApplicantsSeptember 2022
Figuring out how to stand out on applications makes even the most stoic students sweat. Here's what five admissions officers advise, including aiming for best-fit colleges (not most prestigious, be honest, follow directions, and start early.
View Article Online
How to Apply for FAFSADecember 2023
The FAFSA is the gateway to financial aid, merit scholarships, work-study, and student loans. This year's FAFSA (for the 2024-25 academic year) features sweeping changes, including fewer questions and a new formula. It's also running way behind. Here's what to know.
View Article Online
When is the FAFSA deadline?October 2022
You might think there's a single deadline for the FAFSA.It's true, there's one federal deadline, but institutional and state deadlines vary, so it's important to know them and get your FAFSA turned in before the earliest one.
View Article Online
Changes to the Financial Aid Formula Could Affect How Much You Pay for CollegeNovember 2022
The FAFSA's asset protection allowance dipped to $0 for next fall's students for the first time. Back in 2009, it peaked at $84,000. No wonder families aren't qualifying for the same amount of aid. On the upside, the income protection allowance went up this year, so that compensates a bit. Here's what else to know about the formula.
View Article Online
Low-Income Students Can Get More Money to Help Pay for College This YearJanuary 2023
For next fall's students, the Pell Grant is increasing by $500. That's great news -- it's the largest percentage jump in 15 years. There's still more work to be done to bring it in line with today's college costs, but it's a start. Check out what to know here.
View Article Online
6 Important Skills Your Kid Needs for CollegeSeptember 2019
When we think of the resume needed to get into college, we think high test scores, top grades and class rigor. But to succeed in college, students also need well-developed social-emotional skills to handle the unavoidable bumps of young adulthood.
View Article Online
How to Apply for the FAFSASeptember 2021
Every year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, a.k.a the FAFSA, opens on Oct. 1 for students going to college the following year. For many families, the FAFSA inspires dread — and worry about making mistakes. Here's what to know.
View Article Online
Free FAFSA Help: Here's Where to Get Help from College Aid ExpertsOctober 2021
Every year, community forums on Facebook and Reddit are flooded with exasperated parents wondering how to answer questions on the FAFSA. Some are fairly straightforward;others are trickier. Here's what to know about finding free help.
View Article Online
6 Tools that Give the Best Estimates for How Much College Will Really Cost Your FamilyDecember 2021
Every year, a new crop of parents joins the college search rat race with their student and is shocked that finding out how much college costs is so complicated — nothing like their own college days. But it is possible to do some research and figure out a ballpark. Here's how.
View Article Online
Parents Can Qualify for Student Loan Forgiveness, Too. Here's HowFebruary 2022
Most people can't qualify, but if you work in the right kind of public service job, you might be able to get your parent PLUS loans forgiven. Read on.
View Article Online
A Look at Life on Campus with the Delta VariantSeptember 2021
The Delta variant of the coronavirus has thrown a new wrench into college life. Here's what to expect on campus this semester at schools around the country.
View Article Online
What is Work-Study? Your Top Questions, AnsweredOctober 2021
If you qualified for work-study -- it's a need-based form of "self help" -- you can find a work-study job on campus. These can be great opportunities. Here's what to know.
View Article Online
Important Things You Should Know About State AidOctober 2021
State grant and scholarship programs differ heavily in offerings. Here's what to know about the types of state aid and how they can help you pay for college.
View Article Online
With College Waitlists Overcrowded, What to Know About Accepting Your Spot at SchoolApril 2021
This year is kind of wild with overcrowded waitlists because colleges don't know how many students will claim their acceptance. Here's what to know about getting in and what to do if you hope to accept a spot from the waitlist.
View Article Online
10 Tips to Help You Pay for College This FallAugust 2021
Paying for college is tough, and many people cover costs with hefty loans. But you might not have to borrow as much as you think if you strategize some other payment methods. Here's how you might be able to cover part of the bill without loans.
View Article Online
How Colleges are Helping Students Meet Basic NeedsApril 2021
Lots of college students struggle with food and housing while they're taking classes, and many campuses have stepped up their services. Here's what to know and where to go for extra help.
View Article Online
CollegeXpress
Tuition Insurance and Coronavirus: What to Know Before You Buy it for Your College Student's Fall SemesterJuly 2020
It’s no surprise that some families are wondering whether they should buy tuition insurance to safeguard tuition payments with the pandemic throwing campus plans into question. But it's not that simple. Read on.
View Article Online
Colleges are Freezing Tuition and Fees as Classes Move Online. Here's How Much That Actually Saves StudentsAugust 2020
As campus reopening plans shift by the day and the number of Americans out of work remains at record levels, colleges are navigating demands from students across the nation to reduce the cost of attendance, particularly for online courses. Here's what they're doing.
View Article Online
How Will Students Get College Scholarships if They Can't Take the SAT?October 2020
SAT and ACT testing for college admissions have been canceled over and over again during the pandemic. It's creating worry about admissions and scholarships. Though many colleges have responded by going test optional, the devil is in the details. Here's what to know.
View Article Online
6 Expert Tips for Applying to College During the PandemicNovember 2020
Use these tips to guide your college application process during this unprecedented year. What to know about testing, essays, virtual resources, and more.
View Article Online
Colleges Are Lowering Tuition Prices. But Most Students Won't Save a PennyDecember 2020
Tuition resets help some families. But many students who receive financial aid and scholarships to make college affordable won't actually see their bottom line change. Here's why.
View Article Online
Here's How How College Admissions are Changing This Year -- And What High School Seniors Need to KnowApril 2020
With hundreds of college campuses closed by the pandemic, high school seniors and their families are wondering how they’re supposed to make a decision about where to attend if they can’t visit in person. What to know about the decision process.
View Article Online
Coronavirus is Upending Internships for College Students. Here's What to Do If Yours Was CanceledApril 2020
With internship season looming, the coronavirus has thrown student plans for the summer into disarray. Internship opportunities have dropped 52%, according to recent Glassdoor research. Here's what you can do.
View Article Online
A Six-Step Guide to Asking Your College for More Financial Aid This YearMay 2020
For millions of students with parents suddenly out of work, paying for college just got a whole lot harder during the pandemic. Luckily you can ask for your financial aid form to be reviewed.
View Article Online
More Than 3 Million College Students Who Can't Afford Food May Be Eligible for Expanded SNAP BenefitsFebruary 2021
Congress passed a SNAP benefits expansion in response to the pandemic that took effect in January 2021. More college students may be eligible according to new criteria. Here's what to know and other ways colleges are helping hungry students.
View Article Online
Here's How Much of Your Income Should Go Towards Student Loans Each MonthFebruary 2021
As tempting as it is to throw money at your student loans, financial planners say that's not the best idea. Here's how to divvy up your monthly paycheck, and what to know about avoiding too much debt for your income.
View Article Online
All About the CSS Profile: What It Is and What You Need to KnowSeptember 2018
In addition to the FAFSA, the CSS Profile is a detailed financial aid form that more than 200 colleges and programs use to assess your financial profile. It makes the FAFSA look like child's play.
View Article Online
9 Reasons to Use the Career Center Before Senior YearApril 2019
Many students delay going to the career center until they're close to graduating, but they're better served by using it early and often to learn about career options, job fairs, internships, and writing resumes.
View Article Online
Making the Most of Your Campus Resources as a First-Generation StudentAugust 2019
Heading to college is a big adjustment for anyone, but the "hidden curriculum" of college can be extra challenging for first-generation students (the first in their family to graduate from college). Here's why campus resources help you get settled.
View Article Online
How to Team Up With Your Teen on the College SearchSeptember 2019
As a parent, it's all too easy to take over the college search process for your teen. You might not even realize you're doing it. But it's much better if you act as a teammate, not a coach. Here's why.
View Article Online
Foreign Universities vs. US Colleges: What You Need to KnowNovember 2019
Some students are more interested in getting their degree in Europe, and there are plenty of English-language programs outside the US. What to know if you pursue this path.
View Article Online
What to Do About Transfer ShockNovember 2019
Many students transfer to a new institution during their college career, and they may not be prepared for some of the surprises they'll experience. Here's what transfer shock is (blog post).
View Article Online
How to Make the Most of An Undergraduate Business DegreeNovember 2019
The most popular undergraduate degree is business. It can position you for a career in government agencies, public utilities, insurance companies, banks, brokerage firms, personnel management, finance, retail and sales management, market research, social media management, and many more.
View Article Online
6 Important Ways To Get Involved on CampusDecember 2019
Doing well academically is your primary job in college, but it isn’t your only job. College should be a holistic experience, and getting involved on campus is important for your success (blog post).
View Article Online
4 Benefits of a College Job, Plus Tips for Finding OneDecember 2019
Studies show that working in college hones your ability to manage your time effectively, teaching you how to prioritize and plan. Good time management often boosts grades (as long as you don’t work too much) and is an important skill that will benefit your career after graduation (blog post).
View Article Online
Understanding Learning Differences and What Services Colleges OfferJanuary 2020
For parents of teens with learning disabilities, the college search can feel more complicated. It's important to tap into the available resources for a successful experience.
View Article Online
College Search Advice for Undocumented StudentsMarch 2020
Students with undocumented status have a harder road during the college search process because every state has different laws about financial aid. But with the right guidance, students can find options.
View Article Online
How the Coronavirus May Change the Transfer ProcessJuly 2020
Whether you’re transferring to a new school for fall 2020 or you’re planning to transfer in fall 2021, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic is going to add (or already has added) a layer of considerations to the transfer admission process.
View Article Online
How the Coronvirus May Change Your College PlanningSeptember 2020
College planning is complicated enough in normal times, but when the coronavirus pandemic shuttered campuses nationwide, the college search process became even more challenging.
View Article Online
Financial Tips for Disadvantaged International StudentsSeptember 2020
University can be expensive for international students in the US. Here's how economically disadvantaged students can pay for their education.
View Article Online
Make the Most of Campus Services During the PandemicMarch 2021
Many colleges are offering accessible online resources to their students as a result of the pandemic. Here's how you can utilize these valuable remote services.
View Article Online
From Mold to Mice: How to Deal with Dorm Room IssuesNovember 2018
We all hope our kids have a great dorm experience, but sometimes that room turns out to be less than rosy. Here's what students should do if they run into problems.
View Article Online
How to Help a Reluctant Student With College PlansJanuary 2019
Sometimes students simply feel overwhelmed with the college search process and don't know where to start, but sometimes there's an underlying issue going on. How parents can help their students get going... or choose a different path.
View Article Online
Important Things to Know About Your EFCFebruary 2019
In the fall of your senior year, your family will fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to start the process of possibly receiving a federal or state aid package that will help you pay for college (f you qualify). When you fill out the FAFSA, it generates what’s called an Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Here's what to know.
View Article Online
What to Know Before You Take a Gap Year from College During CoronavirusApril 2020
The novel coronavirus is throwing a wrench into a normal college opening this fall. What to know if you think you'd rather put off college for a year.
View Article Online
How Does Taking a Gap Year Affect College Admissions?June 2019
Gap years are growing ever more popular, but many parents worry about how they affect their kid's college plans. Gap years don't hurt them, but it's worth understanding how the college application process and the gap year plans should be handled.
View Article Online
What is a Gap Year: What to Know Before They GoJune 2019
Here's what to know about your child taking a gap year by the numbers. Also, why you shouldn't worry about the gap and how your teen can make the most of the year.
View Article Online
23 Apps to Make Fundraising EasierMay 2019
Organizing a group of people and keeping track of documents isn't easy, but there are plenty of apps these days to help. Here's what I learned in my research.
View Article Online
One Student's Junk is Another Student's TreasureSeptember 2018
You can spend a fortune on dorm furnishings, only to have your child chuck them in June. Here's what schools are doing to help reduce waste.
View Article Online
Don't Fall for These 6 Myths About College SavingsJuly 2017
College might feel a long ways off, but it's closer than you think. Here are a few mental traps to avoid if you're planning on saving for it.
View Article Online
Teens' College Savings May not Affect Financial AidAugust 2017
It's easy to worry that student savings and income will keep your student from getting financial aid. But here's the skinny on what really affects financial aid.
View Article Online
5 Ways to Find Money for College SavingsSeptember 2017
Many of us have no idea how we'll afford college, but head in the sand isn't a strategy. It's surprising how often you can find money to save by simply reprioritizing. Here are some ideas.
View Article Online
11 Misconceptions About Paying for CollegeDecember 2017
Understanding financial aid, merit aid, and college costs is complicated. Here are 11 things families commonly don't realize about paying for college.
View Article Online
Why We Need to Make Math Relevant to KidsDecember 2016
American kids lag behind their international peers in math skills, but STEM jobs are growing, and prepared kids will benefit. Tips here for making math as relevant as reading and getting kids comfortable with it.
View Article In PDF Format
10 Ways Today's College Students Can Lower Their Student DebtOctober 2016
College is expensive, and most students can't pay their own way unless they live at home. Here's what families should know as they research colleges.
View Article In PDF Format
Teaching Money Skills: Why Teenagers Should Help Pay for CollegeJanuary 2017
We don't do our teens any favors by paying for everything. NYT Money expert Ron Lieber tells us why it's important to get them involved in their college future.
View Article Online
How to Get Merit Scholarships for CollegeJuly 2016
Two types of financial aid are available for college students -- need based aid and "merit" aid. If your family won't qualify for need aid, here's how you can find merit aid to bring down the cost of college.
View Article Online
Everything You Need to Know about College Testing before 10th GradeSeptember 2016
College and all the required testing can feel high stakes. Here's what to know about the PSAT, the SAT, and the ACT.
View Article Online
When it Comes to Paying for College, Be Realistic and Do Your HomeworkJuly 2016
College is expensive. That's why parents need to research costs and financial aid early so they're not blindsided during their child's senior year.
View Article Online
How to Take a Gap Year Overseas When You're Not WealthyJuly 2016
Not all kids are ready for college right after high school. Tips here from experts on how to create a great gap year, along with ideas and programs for domestic and international opportunities.
View Article Online
Watch it This College Application SeasonOctober 2015
College application season can be a fraught time, exciting for some and disappointing for others. My thoughts on why a bit of empathy is in order, learned the hard way.
View Article Online
The Lowdown on the New SATMarch 2016
The new-format SAT is looming. Some experts say students should skip it this year and not be guinea pigs. Here's what is different from the old format and things to consider about taking it.
View Article Online
8 Surprising Causes of Workplace StressMarch 2016
Excessive workloads and bad bosses aren't the only causes of stress. Sometimes it's the little things that add up, including our own bad habits. Check out these sources of stress.
View Article In PDF Format
Scrip Fundraising in the Digital AgeMarch 2016
Scrip fundraising offers lots of digital choices these days, from reloadable cards to online ordering to paying with a smartphone app right in the store. Learn more about how to create a convenient program that works for your school's parents.
View Article Online
What Your College Financial Aid Letter Isn't Telling YouFebruary 2016
College financial aid award letters are not standardized so they all look different, and they're confusing. Don't get burned. Here's what you should look for.
View Article In PDF Format
4 Reasons to File the FAFSA EarlyFebruary 2016
Don't miss out on important financial aid awards by filing the FAFSA late or not at all. State and institutional aid is determined by the FAFSA -- you may qualify for help even if you don't qualify for federal aid.
View Article In PDF Format
11 Ideas to Get Your School ReadingJanuary 2016
PTO groups can help make reading a life-long passion by supporting fun reading events. Here are ideas to jumpstart events at your school.
View Article Online
Parents of High Schoolers: How Your "Base Year" Affects College Financial AidNovember 2015
College financial aid is primarily based on your annual income, but assets are also accounted. Avoid these mistakes during your "base year."
View Article In PDF Format
Education Tax Breaks Parents of College Students Should Know AboutNovember 2015
If you have a new college student, you'll want to check out these tax credits. Also, a few ways to save for college.
View Article In PDF Format
College Students: How to Conquer Exam Anxiety and Avoid a Nervous BreakdownOctober 2015
College exams are stressful for any new student, but some people experience true test anxiety. Here's how to tell and what to do to conquer it.
View Article In PDF Format
School Snack Rules: How Are PTOs Coping? October 2015
Federal Smart Snacks legislation went into effect last year. Many schools have robust wellness policies in place and aren't affected, but others have had to give up valuable fundraising. Here's a snapshot of what's going on around the nation.
View Article Online
Making Your Playground Fun for AllOctober 2014
Spending time on the school playground teaches kids skills they'll benefit from for life. Here's what experts say enhances kids' experience.
View Article Online
How PTOs Make Their School Music Programs SingApril 2014
School budgets have been hit hard in the last few years. Parent groups have stepped up to bridge the funding gap so kids can have music anyway. Here's what some groups are doing.
View Article Online
Teacher Tips for Supporting Kids' LearningOctober 2012
Teachers offer their tips to parents for supporting kids' academics at home and at school. Here's how to help your child.
View Article In PDF Format
Activity: Fun Ways to Create a Love of ReadingOctober 2012
Building reading skills in elementary school is crucial for kids to enjoy later successes. Tips here for making reading a fun family habit.
View Article In PDF Format
How Important are Grades?July 2012
It's easy to get caught up in grades, even if your school uses standards-based report cards. Read on for tips to keep your child's learning in perspective.
View Article In PDF Format
Helping Kids Become Self StartersJuly 2012
Every child needs to learn how to do homework independently, but sometimes parents' best intentions sabotage kids' efforts. Here's how you can help without getting in the way.
View Article In PDF Format
Activity: Secretly Build Academic SkillsJuly 2012
Here are a few fun activities to keep your child learning long after the homework is done.
View Article In PDF Format
Activity: Helping Your Child's Fine-Motor ControlApril 2012
Writing requires hand-eye coordination and fine-motor muscle development. Here are some fun ways to develop your child's hand strength and hand-eye coordination.
View Article In PDF Format
Keeping Kids on Track with Their HomeworkApril 2012
Is your elementary child procrastinating on homework? Here are a few reasons why kids put it off and tips to help families develop a homework routine.
View Article In PDF Format
Handwriting Help for KidsApril 2012
Kids struggle with handwriting for a variety of reasons. Learn more about fine-motor control development, what you can do to facilitate it, and when to seek help for your child.
View Article In PDF Format
Articles by Topic