In this episode, Kat defines private scholarships, how to search for them, and tips on creating a stand-out scholarship application.

Over 150 colleges across the country who are generous with need-based aid use the CSS Profile. In this episode, Kat explains what the CSS Profile is, how it's different than the FAFSA, how financial aid offices use the CSS Profile, and how much time you should budget to complete it before deadlines.

In this episode, Kat explains and defines the most frequently asked questions from families as they are filling out the FAFSA including assets that are included/not included, which parent reports their financial information for different family circumstances, and more.

Links In This Episode:

Definitions of Dependent/Independent Student Status: https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out/dependency

Which Parent Will Be Reported on the FAFSA? https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out/parent-info

Details About Reporting Parent Assets:
https://studentaid.gov/help-center/answers/article/fafsa-question-total-amount-of-parents-asset-net-worth-exceed-amount-listed

Business/Farm Definitions:
https://studentaid.gov/2021/help/parent-current-business-investments-farm

In this week's podcast episode, Kat introduces you to a small group of colleges across the country that have made it their mission to provide students not only with great work experience and a strong resume before they graduate but opportunities to minimize tuition and costs for families.

Kat explains the most common types of student loans you will see on a financial aid award offer, as well as the differences between federal and private student loans. You'll learn what loans you should consider first if using them for college costs, forgiveness programs, and the advantages of work-study.

In this week's episode, Kat discusses the different types of tuition exchange programs and how you can use these programs for an automatic tuition reduction. 

In this week's episode, join Kat as she dives deep into merit aid and points out certain scholarships that are game-changers for paying for college.

In this week's episode, join Kat as she discusses financial aid vocabulary and basics so your family can know exactly what the school is offering.