Paying for College
Paying for College in the US
College in the United States is expensive. High school students spend time and effort on applying to college, only to wait months to find out how much they’ll actually pay to attend college. However, investing in college goes far before putting down an initial deposit on May 1 of senior year. Investing in college begins in high school. Students invest in their grades and strengthen their curriculum, parents invest in activities, college consultants, and tutors to increase chances of being admitted.
Let’s explore what options there are for financial aid in the United States. Need-based aid refers to the financial aid that students receive who demonstrate need. The lower your family’s income, the more need-based financial aid your student should receive. This can come in the form of grants and scholarships, which do not need to be paid back, and student loans with significantly lower interest rates compared to banks. To apply for need-based aid, families should fill out the FAFSA and the CSS Profile, which are linked in the resources section below. It is always a good idea for families to apply for need-based aid, even if you don’t think you qualify. The lower interest rates for student loans and changing economic circumstances makes having a financial aid application sent to colleges helpful, regardless of your income.
Merit based aid is another form of financial assistance students can qualify for through a strong college application. Frequently students who work with college consultants receive merit scholarships because their applications tend to be stronger and more academically guided. We also have data on which institutions offer more merit aid than others, and can help your child make a more informed decision on which schools to apply to.
Why Work with Us
At Thompson College Consulting, we address financial considerations early in the college search process by creating a tailored list of schools that align with both your student's academic goals and your financial realities. It’s a proactive, smart approach that ensures your family won’t be blindsided by unexpected costs.
As college admissions consultants, we have comprehensive financial aid tools to guide you through this process. We can help you understand your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and identify schools that fit within your financial parameters. Whether your family is seeking need-based assistance or merit-based scholarships, we will help you make college more affordable.
