Paying for College: Making Sense of Financial Aid

Financial aid can feel confusing, stressful, and overwhelming, so this session breaks it down in a simple and understandable way. Students and families learn about FAFSA, scholarships, grants, loans, and work study, along with how financial aid packages are built and compared. The session focuses on clarity, understanding, and informed decision making so families feel prepared and confident. Families learn how to ask the right questions, understand real costs, and plan ahead wisely. They leave feeling more secure, knowledgeable, and ready to navigate financial decisions.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand the different types of financial aid and what they mean

• Learn how to complete key financial aid applications

• Read and understand award letters with clarity and confidence

• Develop strategies to search for scholarships and reduce costs