Some Tips and Tricks for Parents

Today, I would like to discuss some tips that I have learned to help you cope while applying for aid. I have found that many parents share concerns when it comes to the financial aid application process and I would like to help put some of those fears to rest.

Many parents I have spoken with say they find financial aid forms intrusive and difficult, and to many they aren't worth the "hassle" to fill out. It is true that financial aid forms are difficult to a first timer - there are pages of instructions, information requests, etc., however, many parents find upon closer inspection that the information requested isn't much different than that used on their Federal Income Tax Return. Once you take a look at them (and I do recommend reading everything first before you fill out anything) you'll find that they aren't as intimidating as you first thought. Financial aid offices don't want a lot of complicated information, just verification of your income. To obtain this they will need copies of tax returns, mortgage receipts, etc., and that's just part of the process.

I have also run into many parents who feel somewhat embarrassed applying for financial assistance. Many parents feel resentful of having to ask for money from a stranger to take care of their child, because it means that they aren't making a six-figure income. What I would like to convey to these parents is, no matter how difficult it may be, sometimes what your child needs makes you swallow your pride and do what you wouldn't normally do. Not making a six-figure income is, in no way, a personal failure, and neither is asking for aid for your children. I encourage you to visit your child's school, talk to a financial aid advisor, and get involved with this process. Advisors and counselors are surprisingly easy to work with and are there to help.

By far, the largest complaint I have heard from parents involves the differences in financial aid administration and policy from school to school. I have to agree with parents here, because this truly is the most difficult part of the financial aid application process. There are some ways to deal with it that I have listed below:

1. Call the financial aid counselor for each school. They are the best source for information about a school's policy and administration procedure.

2. Consult the college brochure and material. Most of the time you'll find the answers to all your questions there.

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