Author: Dan Godlin

The answer depends on the level of education, FAFSA does not cover private elementary or high schools, but it can be used at approved private colleges and universities. Private K–12 students must rely on support from schools or state programs, while college students at accredited private colleges can receive federal aid. Knowing this difference helps families plan. You can also review how to get financial aid for college to learn more about how the process works. At CollegeCommit, we help families understand how FAFSA connects to the college process. FAFSA rules can feel confusing, but our goal is to make…

Most scholarships do not require repayment because they are a form of gift aid. Students can keep them if they stay enrolled and maintain grades. Repayment happens only if a student withdraws or loses eligibility.  Understanding do you have to pay scholarships back helps families plan better and avoid unwanted financial surprises. Key Takeaways Most scholarships do not require repayment unless rules are broken. You may owe money only if you drop out or lose eligibility. Loans must be repaid with interest; scholarships and grants are gift aid. Some scholarships require that unused funds be returned. Quick Answer: Do Scholarships…

You should apply for financial aid before getting accepted to college. The FAFSA opens in the fall each year. Submitting early gives your family the best chance to receive federal, state, and school-based aid.  Early action helps schools prepare accurate financial aid packages and gives students stronger financial options. At CollegeCommit, we help families take the right steps at the right time. With over 20+ years of combined experience, our advisors guide students through the financial aid process with precision. Knowing when and how to apply for aid helps your family plan and avoid missed deadlines. Key Takeaways When to…

FAFSA does not cover all tuition for most students. It determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work study programs that help offset the cost of attending college, but it rarely pays the full amount.  The total aid received depends on financial need, school costs, and available funding at each institution. If you want to understand exactly how much FAFSA can cover based on your financial need and school type, visit our guide on how much FAFSA can cover for detailed breakdowns and examples. Key Takeaways At CollegeCommit, we help families understand the realities of paying for college. FAFSA opens…

FAFSA is not mandatory for all high school seniors, but some states now require it for graduation. Whether FAFSA is mandatory depends on your state. Texas, California, and Illinois require students to earn a diploma. Others only recommend it. Completing the FAFSA helps students access grants, scholarships, and federal student loans, making college more affordable and accessible to those who plan to attend. Key Takeaways At CollegeCommit, we help students and families plan college admissions with confidence. With over 20 years of combined experience, we’ve guided families through the FAFSA submission process and created smart college plans that support both…

A Federal Pell Grant is not the same as financial aid. The Pell Grant is one kind of federal financial aid that helps undergraduate students pay for college. Financial aid includes many programs – grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study. So, when someone asks if a Federal Pell Grant is the same as financial aid, the answer is no. The Pell Grant is only one part of the larger financial aid system. At CollegeCommit, we help families understand how financial aid works. Many ask if a Federal Pell Grant is the same as financial aid, or if a Pell Grant is…

Getting financial aid for college starts with filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form decides if you qualify for grants, scholarships, work-study, or federal student loans. Learning how to get financial aid for college means gathering documents, meeting deadlines, and submitting your form correctly. Once you apply, you’ll get an award letter showing how much help you can receive. By comparing offers and reapplying each year, families can plan ahead and manage college costs. At CollegeCommit, we help families handle the financial aid process with confidence. Our team includes former admissions officers, Ivy League graduates, and…

You can typically receive federal financial aid for up to six years as an undergraduate student, depending on your enrollment status and program length. This includes grants, loans, and work-study opportunities funded through the FAFSA. However, it’s important to note that the specific duration can vary based on the type of aid you receive and your individual circumstances.  For example, if you are enrolled in a program that requires more than the standard four years, you may be eligible for additional funding. Additionally, if you switch majors or take a break from your studies, your eligibility may be affected. It’s…

The FAFSA can cover part or all of a student’s expenses, depending on their financial need, the type of school, and eligibility. The total amount includes federal grants, loans, and work-study. The amount that the FAFSA can cover varies each year based on your cost of attendance (COA) and student aid index (SAI). For example, students at public universities often receive $12,000–$15,000 in combined aid on a $25,000 annual cost, while private school students may get $10,000–$20,000 toward a $60,000 bill. Most families receive partial funding, which reduces tuition, housing, and book costs. At CollegeCommit, we guide students and families…

Scholarships can range from a few hundred dollars to the full cost of tuition, housing, and meals. How much a scholarship covers depends on the program and the student’s qualifications. Some pay only for tuition and fees, while others include living costs or books. On average, college students receive about $7,000 to $8,000 in scholarship aid each academic year. At CollegeCommit, we help families understand what scholarships really cover so they can plan with confidence. Key Takeaways Most scholarships cover tuition and fees. Full-ride awards can also pay for housing, meals, and books. Undergraduate students get about $8,100 in scholarships…