Frequently Asked Questions

We provide comprehensive college planning and financial aid resources together in one package. Our comprehensive solutions and proven track record with hundreds of satisfied families set us apart.

Our college funding assistance includes help with filling out required forms, reviewing terms, and providing expert guidance to maximize financial assistance opportunities.

Depending on your plan, we provide access to platforms offering career guidance assessments, college search tools, and application tracking.

We are headquartered in New Jersey but offer services across the United States.

After submitting the FAFSA, students are placed on the Student Aid Index (SAI) based on the college’s cost of attendance (COA). The SAI is calculated based on the student’s and parents’ income and assets. Some colleges may offer more comprehensive need-based aid depending on their endowments.

Students qualify for work-study programs based on need. They are offered part-time employment through their school, often in positions related to their field of study. Earnings from work-study do not impact future financial aid eligibility, but unused work-study funds may be canceled.

Students can earn a certain amount of income each year before it affects their financial aid eligibility. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the income protection allowance for dependent students is $7,970. Earnings above this threshold may reduce the amount of need-based financial aid offered, as colleges expect students to contribute a portion of their income towards education costs.

There are three types of federal loans:

• Federal Direct Subsidized Loans: Fixed interest rates, lower than most available on the market.
• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Higher interest rates but offer deferment and forbearance options.
• Parent PLUS Loans: Available for students needing more than what is offered through Direct loans.

Grades mainly affect merit-based aid. Schools expect students to maintain good grades to keep scholarships and maintain satisfactory academic progress to retain financial aid.

College admissions offices look for well-rounded candidates. While grades are crucial, many schools also consider essays, letters of recommendation, test scores (if applicable), and extracurricular activities.

Grades are important, but so are the rigor and curriculum of each class. Admissions officers appreciate students who challenge themselves, even if it means taking more difficult courses that may not be honors or AP classes.

Letters of recommendation provide admissions officers with insights into a student’s character and abilities. Teachers can highlight a student’s strengths, classroom behavior, and intellectual curiosity. Supplemental letters from coaches or advisors offer additional perspectives.

It’s beneficial to start early. In grades 9 or 10, students should research colleges and visit campuses. Taking career, personality, and interest inventories can help narrow down potential majors. SAT and ACT prep is also crucial for improving admission chances and securing merit aid.

By the middle of grade 11, students should have a list of potential schools. They should request letters of recommendation from teachers by the end of junior year and work on their essays and applications over the summer.

High school transcripts typically include final grades, attendance records, GPA, dates attended, and sometimes mid-year grades and standardized test scores. Each class from grades 9 through 11 is listed with the name and number of credits earned. Colleges also receive a mid-year report during grade 12.

Yes. Early decision is binding, meaning you must attend that school if accepted and can only apply to one school this way. Early action is non-binding and allows you to apply to multiple schools, providing answers before winter break or mid-January.

Colleges offer various support services, including academic tutoring, mental health workshops, group therapy, and support groups. It’s essential to inquire about these services during college visits or when speaking with admissions officers.