Get organized before the deadlines

Tuition checklist

1. 01List every school with its aid deadlines and required forms.
2. 02Create StudentAid.gov accounts for the student and contributors.
3. 03Gather tax returns, W-2s, and records of untaxed income.
4. 04Complete the FAFSA and any school-specific forms.
5. 05Search for local, state, and college scholarships.
6. 06Build a simple monthly student budget.
7. 07Compare aid offers using net price, not sticker price.
8. 08Verify each program's details directly with its administrator.

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Student budgeting

• Estimate fixed costs first: tuition after aid, housing, and transportation.
• Set aside a small amount each month for books and supplies.
• Track spending for one month to find realistic numbers.
• Keep a small emergency buffer for unexpected costs.