Five Steps to Win More Financial Aid

Did you know that 45% of families who earn more than $106,000 do not get as much need-based aid as they deserve. Here are five steps to get more:

1. Figure out how much college will cost and how much the family can realistically contribute toward that cost.
2. Work on justifying your appeal based on need, merit and competition. Check the college's financial aid and admission history to see how your student's test scores, GPA and aid package compares with those from previous years.
3. Submit your appeal letter with relevant documentation.
4. Follow up with the person or office where you submitted your appeal. A first or second personal visit or campus tour is huge.
5. Think about ways to improve aid in subsequent years by inquiring about aid opportunities for upperclassmen, including department scholarships and paid internships.