Acceptance letters are exciting — but the real decision often comes down to what’s in the financial aid package. Two colleges might both say “You’re in!” while offering completely different bottom lines.

Here’s how to break down those offers like a pro, so you and your student can make the smartest financial choice.

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📄 1. Gather All Your Offer Letters in One Place

Start by collecting every financial aid award — digital or paper — and put them side by side.

Make sure each letter includes:

• Cost of attendance (COA) — tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, and estimated expenses
• Grants and scholarships — money you don’t repay
• Work-study eligibility — income your student can earn on campus
• Loans — money you will repay (and what kind)

💡 Pro tip: Create a simple comparison chart or spreadsheet. It’s the easiest way to see true differences.

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🏷️ 2. Focus on Net Cost, Not Sticker Price

Every school lists a “cost of attendance,” but what matters most is what your family will actually pay.

Net Cost = Total Cost of Attendance – Free Money (grants + scholarships)

Example:

• University A COA = $60,000
• Grants & Scholarships = $30,000
  Net Cost = $30,000

That’s your real out-of-pocket number — before any loans.

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💸 3. Separate “Free” Money from Loans

Some award letters mix loans and grants together, making it look like the college is covering more than it really is.
When you break it down, note:

• Grants and scholarships = free
• Loans = debt

Label each clearly so you don’t confuse gift aid with borrowed money.

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🧮 4. Compare Loan Types Carefully

Not all loans are created equal.
Look for:

• Direct Subsidized Loans: Best option — no interest while in school.
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Interest starts right away, but still federal.
• Parent PLUS or private loans: Typically higher interest rates and stricter repayment terms.

Check each school’s offer to see how much borrowing is expected — and who’s responsible (student vs. parent).

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💡 5. Look at Multi-Year Affordability

Some scholarships are renewable each year; others are one-time awards.
Ask:

• What GPA or credit hours are required to keep the scholarship?
• Do costs typically rise each year?
• What if financial circumstances change?

Thinking long-term helps you avoid surprises sophomore year.

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💬 6. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for More

If your student’s top-choice school offered less than another college, politely appeal the decision.
Share documentation of better offers from similar schools or major financial changes in your family.

Many colleges can adjust aid — especially if they want your student to enroll.

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🧠 7. Consider the ROI (Return on Investment)

It’s not just about cost — it’s about value.
A degree that aligns with your student’s goals, offers strong career support, and helps them graduate on time may be worth more than a slightly cheaper alternative.

Ask:

• What’s the four-year graduation rate?
• What’s the average student loan debt at graduation?
• How do graduates fare in the job market?

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✨ Final Thought

Choosing a college is both an emotional and financial decision. By comparing aid offers carefully — not just reacting to the biggest scholarship number — you’ll make a choice that supports your student’s success and your family’s budget.

Smart, steady, and informed wins every time.