
Become a College Aid Pro (Expert)
Register for Our 3-Part Course for Counselors Looking to Improve Their Financial Aid & Scholarship Literacy.
What: 3-Part Course covering all things financial aid & scholarships. Counselors will receive PD credit and a certification.
Where: Virtual. Live and On-Demand.
When: Wednesday March 11th, 2026 @ 12pm ET.
Session 1: Financial Aid & Scholarships 101
How SAIs Are Calculated:
FAFSA (Federal Methodology) vs. CSS Profile (Institutional Methodology)
Special Considerations:
Two-household families, Home ownership & Business ownership
How SAIs Influence College Affordability:
Estimating Institutional Scholarships & Identifying and Securing Private Scholarships


Session 2: Understanding Financial Aid Award Letters & Appeals
How to interpret and compare financial aid offers
How to evaluate award accuracy and determine if an offer is reasonable
Need-Based versus Merit-Based Appeals
Session 3: How to Pay the Bill & Borrow if Necessary
Funding Strategies and Resource Selection:
Comparing 529 Plans vs. UTMA/UGMA Accounts, Coordinating Grandparent Contributions, Utilizing Current Cash Flow & Borrowing Strategies
Education Loan Options:
Federal Direct Student Loans, Parent PLUS Loans, Private Education Loans, State-Sponsored Loans & Alternative (Non-Traditional) Financing Options
Additional Financing Resources:
Home Equity, 401(k) Assets & Cash Value Life Insurance
