Myth: I can’t negotiate financial aid.
Truth: You can contact schools about changes in your life or offers from other schools to negotiate aid. Learn more.
Myth: If I show financial need, I’ll get free money for school.
Truth: Colleges aren’t required to meet 100% of student need. So you may need external grants, scholarships, or private loans. Learn more.
Myth: Our Expected Family Contribution covers four years of actual payments.
Truth: Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is an estimate, not exact payments, and is handled one year at a time. Learn more.
Myth: Scholarships are only given by universities to supersmart students.
Truth: There are many kinds of scholarships that cover costs for specific studies, community service, and more. Learn more.
Myth: All financial aid offers have a clear, standard format.
Truth: There’s no set formula for a financial aid offer, and schools can include different loans in their packages. Learn more.
Myth: Only low-income families get financial aid.
Truth: Many families will qualify for aid like grants, scholarships, work study, or federal loans. Learn more.