Stop Carpet Bombing Colleges: Your Counsellor is Your Financial Advisor
A good college counselor can be a major money saver, particularly for families that don’t qualify for need-based fee waivers. Many students, often overwhelmed and under-informed, “carpet bomb” dozens of universities, paying application fees that can be anywhere from $50 to $100 per school. đź’° These non-refundable fees can quickly add up to hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.
Targeted Application Strategy
A skilled counselor helps students create a targeted and balanced college list. Instead of applying to every school, they’ll guide you to identify a handful of “reach,” “target,” and “safety” schools that are a good academic, social, and financial fit. This strategic approach prevents students from wasting money on applications to schools where their chances of admission are slim.
Unlocking Fee Waivers and Financial Aid
Beyond a smarter application strategy, a counselor can also help you unlock fee waivers. They are often aware of specific institutional waivers, especially for students who visit the campus or attend certain recruiting events. Furthermore, they’re experts at navigating the complex world of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans.They can help you present your financial situation in a way that maximizes your aid eligibility, potentially saving you a substantial amount on tuition costs down the road. This guidance transforms the application process from an expensive shot in the dark to a well-planned investment.