financial aid award letter Archives

“Need-Based” vs “Merit-Based” Aid, and How to Qualify for Both

The number one question we hear from parents during application season is, “How do we pay for college?” Between scholarships, grants, and financial aid offers, the language can get confusing…

Regan Blume October 29, 2025

Financial Aid General Preparing for College

The Essay that Won Me $406,000

Jane introduces us to her multi-scholarship-winning essay. Sitting pretty with a 2.7 GPA in your junior year of high school doesn’t exactly scream “scholarship.” The year before, my older sister…

Jane Cooper May 3, 2024

Financial Aid Preparing for College

Understanding Your College Financial Aid Award Letter

Evaluating and comparing college costs can be confusing. Here are things to keep in mind while reviewing your College Financial Aid Award Letter.

Regan Blume April 2, 2018