Learn how to report joint accounts, what to do if a parent is also in school, how schools consider your cost of living, and when to submit financial aid applications. …

Tips include apply on time, submit the correct applications, update your colleges with changes, comply with Verification, and submit separate applications for merit aid…

Topics include defining the EFC, the EFC formula, where to find your EFC, and multiple EFCs.…

Learn how the process works for twins, which 529 plans to report, who should be the custodial parent, how to include special circumstances, and more. …

Winners include Academy of the Pacific Rim Charter Public School, Central Catholic High School, and Brockton High School. …

Read what we learned about creating a financial plan, financial aid options, financial planning, financial aid timelines, and staying on top of payments throughout college. …

Retirement savings are not reported on the FAFSA, but they are reported on the CSS Profile, meaning they could potentially affect your financial aid award at certain schools. …

Learn what we mean by "special or extenuating circumstances," what qualifies as a special or extenuating circumstance, what you need to submit to your college, and when to submit it. …

We answer frequently asked questions including does a student get ignored for financial aid if the family has a college savings account, how does a college savings account affect my eligibility for financial aid, will the financial aid amount change once the school learns of my college savings account, and what happens if my grandparents save for my college? …

Learn about SAP Criteria and Examples, what happens if you do not meet a college's SAP standards, common myths about SAP, and how to stay on track. …