The EIC on the FAFSA stands for Expected Family Contribution, but note that the official term changed to Student Aid Index (SAI) starting in 2024. EIC is the number colleges use to determine how much financial aid you qualify for. This article explains what EIC is, how it is calculated, and how it impacts your … Read more
The FAFSA for the 2025-2026 school year opened on October 1, 2025, and the federal deadline is June 30, 2026. That means you have until the end of June to submit your application for federal student aid. However, many states and colleges have much earlier deadlines, so you should not wait until the last minute. … Read more
Wondering who qualifies for financial aid? In short, most US citizens and eligible noncitizens who are enrolled in an eligible degree or certificate program can qualify for some form of aid. Your actual eligibility depends on factors like financial need, enrollment status, and maintaining satisfactory academic progress. Basic Eligibility Requirements To receive federal financial aid, … Read more
Is financial aid going away? The short answer is no. Federal student aid, state grants, and institutional scholarships remain available for the 2026-2027 school year. However, the process and rules have changed, so it is critical to stay informed and meet all deadlines. Recent policy debates and budget talks have caused confusion. But as of … Read more
The short answer is: you likely will get some form of financial aid if you apply. Most US college students receive aid, whether from the federal government, your state, your school, or private scholarships. But the exact amount depends on your family’s finances, the cost of your school, and how many applications you complete. This … Read more
Student financial aid helps you pay for college or career school. It comes from the federal government, state governments, colleges, and private sources. To get most aid, you need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, every year. What is the FAFSA and why is it important? The FAFSA is … Read more
To get student financial aid, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit it as early as possible. The FAFSA opens on October 1 each year, and many states and schools have deadlines that are much earlier than the federal deadline. This guide explains the steps you must take … Read more
Getting more financial aid starts with understanding that the amount you receive is not always final. You can take specific steps to increase your aid package, such as appealing your award letter, updating your financial information, and applying for additional scholarships. This guide explains proven strategies to help you secure the funding you need for … Read more
You can open a 529 plan directly through any state’s official 529 website, through a financial advisor, or via a brokerage platform. Most states offer their own plans, and you are not limited to your home state’s plan. This flexibility means you can compare options and choose the one that best fits your savings goals … Read more
The 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to help families save for education expenses. Named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, this plan lets your money grow tax-free when used for qualified costs like tuition, room and board, and books. Simply put, it’s one of the best tools for college savings … Read more