Families of high school seniors bound for college in September 2026 have been filing applications that are 80% complete… a relief, but now we wait. Although the heavy lifting feels over, all eyes should shift to how we will pay.
Choosing college and how to get in is critical, but determining how to pursue the educational choice post-high school is vital. Completing and filing applications for financial aid and external private scholarships shouldn’t be overlooked. One critical application to complete is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . This application covers the calculation (Student Aid Index – SAI) and awarding of need-based financial aid provided to eligible students and families from all public and private colleges, universities, approved career institutions, federal and state programs, and some private external scholarship providers. Take the 30 minutes to complete and file the FAFSA. Need help – call.
Another vital activity while waiting to learn about acceptances and financial aid offers is applying for scholarships. Yes, it is reportedly time-consuming and sometimes frustrating, but uncovering a scholarship and receiving an award can mean the difference between going and not. Please email me at tom@getcollegegoing.com, and I’ll send you a PDF copy of my Scholarship Workbook. It contains tips and ideas on how to find $$$$.
Community College – Career School – Heading in a different direction after high school requires planning, too. Learning the rules and guidelines to attend and pay should not be left to the last minute. Many programs fill up fast, and applying for financial aid and scholarships follows the exact timelines as a student at a four-year college.
I hope the government shutdown will end when RT One BNG Magazine hits the street. The shutdown has been impacting the delivery of services by the Department of Education, specifically in handling calls to resolve and assist with the FAFSA. Whether it was the shutdown or an undeclared higher education bubble, colleges and universities are making their own cuts. Reductions in staffing and programs are now occurring on campuses. The impact is currently felt in the delivery of some services and the availability of academic programs. Current 12th-grade families, especially 11th graders beginning the planning process, should be inquiring how these changes may affect a college that has offered a spot in September or is on the radar for the future.
Finally, families of 11th-grade students, your journey begins now. November and the Fall provided a great time to get an early jump on boosting study and time management skills that impact GPA and SAT scores, and begin the discussion on funding, finding, and setting realistic expectations for life after high school. Please take a second to review my Fall activities for 11th graders. https://getcollegegoing.com/fall-planning/
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Learn more at www.getcollegegoing.com
Need some additional cash to pay for college or career school, consider hunting for scholarships. Send me an email [tom@getcollegegoing.com] to receive a PDF copy of my Scholarship Workbook. ITs full of tips and insights on how to search and apply for external scholarships, local, regional and even national. Subject line: Scholarship Workbook.
