An often overlooked component to seeking scholarships is calculating your financial eligibility. Your total student aid, including federal or state need-based aid, subsidized loans, and scholarships cannot exceed your total cost of college.

When is the last time you failed at something? Did you try something similar again? How did it turn out? Have you ever allowed fear of failure to prevent you from something? I get it; I really do.

As colleges and universities around the country are re-opening to students and live classes, they are also beginning to offer prospective student tours again. Visiting the schools you’re applying to is a fun and educational rite of passage, so take advantage of school visits before you commit to a top choice.

On October 1st, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and College Board CSS Profile will open for the 2022/2023 academic year. Colleges use these forms to determine aid eligibility. For teens and families, these forms may seem intimidating, but with the right preparation, it’s extremely manageable!

While your essay might be on any number of topics, customizing it to the school of your choice will not only attract admissions officers to your application, but it will also help you solidify your belief that this school will be a good fit for you.

By planning early and maximizing the four years of high school for exploration and self-discovery, teens can enhance admissions results and enter college with confidence.

In part two of Assessing Fit to Find the Best College for You, we explore student life and campus environmental factors that should be considered when determining your “best fit” school.

Students are striving for a competitive GPA with honors and AP classes, and they are motivated to earn college credit before graduation. This method may work for some students, but it is not a magic formula. Your high school journey can be far more nuanced while still supporting your higher education goals.