Comprehensive College Planning Resources for Students and Parents
At College Funding Solutions San Diego, located in sunny San Diego, CA, we understand that navigating the college planning process can be challenging for both students and parents. That’s why we offer comprehensive resources designed to simplify your journey and provide expert guidance every step of the way. Have questions or need personalized advice? Reach out to us today.
College Test Prep: PSAT, SAT, & ACT
The PSAT, SAT, and ACT are essential college admission tests that measure aptitude and academic achievements. Most colleges accept either the SAT or ACT, and it's recommended to take each at least twice to improve scores. The PSAT is a practice for the SAT, typically taken in sophomore or junior year, and may qualify students for National Merit Scholarships.
- PSAT: Best taken in 10th or 11th grade.
- SAT & ACT: Offered multiple times per year and accepted nationwide.
Career Planning
Choosing a career sets the foundation for your future. Spend time exploring your interests and skills while in high school, as changing career paths later can be costly. Consider the 90,000 hours you'll spend in your career over a lifetime—it's important to make those hours count by choosing a profession that excites you.
- Research & Participate: Join clubs, activities, or part-time jobs to explore career options.
- Talk to Professionals: Connect with people already in your chosen field to get firsthand insights.
- Tailor Your Courses: Select high school courses that align with your future career and college plans.
College Search & Selection
Start early and pace yourself when searching for colleges. Break it into manageable steps—first, compile a list, then narrow it down to 6 finalists. Factors to consider include campus size, location, academic offerings, and overall culture. Visit campuses to get a real feel for the school.
- Important Considerations: Graduation rates, student life, and available resources.
- Organize Your Search: Divide your process into initial research, narrowing your list, and selecting final choices.
Financial Aid & Parent Strategies
Financial aid can be confusing, but understanding the process is crucial. College funding is not just for low-income families—many colleges offer aid based on a student's potential and other factors. Families of all income levels can qualify for aid, so it's important to explore all options.
- Research Funding: Understand the true costs of attendance and how financial aid works.
- Strategic Planning: Use financial aid as a tool for reducing costs—target schools that offer the best aid packages.
This page offers practical steps to guide students and parents through the complex processes of college prep, career planning, and funding. Use these resources to make informed decisions about education and your future.
What is the Student Aid Index (SAI), and how is it calculated?
The Student Aid Index (SAI) is a measure used to determine your financial need for college funding. It takes into account your household income and non-qualified assets (those outside of retirement accounts) using a hidden formula. The formula applies percentages (e.g., 26.2% for income and 5.5% for assets) to estimate your expected family contribution (EFC).
For example:
- Household Income: $75,000
- Non-Qualified Assets: $100,000
- College Tuition: $90,000
Your estimated EFC might be around $25,000, leaving you with an unmet need of $64,000. This unmet need may qualify for financial aid on a need basis.
What are non-qualified assets?
Non-qualified assets include any financial assets not held in retirement accounts. Common examples include:
- Savings accounts
- Investment portfolios (stocks, bonds, mutual funds)
- Real estate (excluding your primary residence)
- 529 College Savings Plans
Assets within retirement accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, or 403(b)s are excluded from the calculation.
Who qualifies for need-based financial aid?
Families with lower income and fewer non-qualified assets are more likely to qualify for need-based financial aid. However, even families with higher income may qualify depending on tuition costs and their specific financial situation.
Use our Need-Based Financial Aid Calculator to see if you qualify. Simply register your details to access this tool and get an estimate tailored to your financial profile.
What if my family doesn’t qualify for need-based financial aid?
If your household income exceeds $400,000 or you have significant assets, you may not qualify for need-based aid. However, your student could still be eligible for merit-based scholarships and grants. These are awarded based on academic, athletic, or extracurricular achievements rather than financial need.
What resources are available to help me?
We offer exclusive resources to help families navigate college funding:
- SAI/EFC Calculator: A quick tool to estimate your expected family contribution.
- CFS Guidebook – College Funding Made Easy: Written by our founder, this comprehensive digital guide breaks down the college funding process step by step. Register your details to receive a free copy.
How do I access these resources?
To unlock our tools and resources, including the Need-Based Financial Aid Calculator and the CFS Guidebook, simply register using our secure input form. This ensures that you gain exclusive access while we provide you with tailored guidance.
What’s the best way to learn if my family qualifies for aid?
The most accurate way to determine your eligibility for financial aid is to schedule a consultation with us. Our expert advisors will analyze your financial profile and provide you with a customized funding strategy.
This page offers practical steps to guide students and parents through the complex processes of college prep, career planning, and funding. Use these resources to make informed decisions about education and your future. If you need more information, get in touch with us today.