Summer is such a wonderful time, especially for students who have graduated and are preparing to start college this fall. I am SO proud of all of my students who are about to go do great things at the colleges of their choices!! While summer often feels like a well-deserved break from the classroom, it’s actually one of the best times to make progress on college planning for students. It’s even more true when it comes to financial aid. I always encourage my students to use these quieter months to take a few simple steps that can make a big difference come fall. In between the days at the pool and the late nights under the stars this summer, here’s a few things you can do to prepare for college applications and financial aid this fall!
Start with a Financial Aid Check-In
Sit down with your family and review where you stand in the college planning process this summer. It’s a good time to start gathering checklists for college applications and financial aid. You can take the time now to organize what you need and then jump right into the applications in a few months. It doesn’t hurt to have this sit down meeting each year, whether your student is a junior thinking about applying to college, a senior ready to apply, or a new college student. Remember, financial aid applications happen every year in college, too! I highly recommend creating a financial aid folder (digital or physical) for everything you’ll need for applications.
Prep for the FAFSA (Even Before It Opens)
While the FAFSA won’t open until October, your family can prepare now for the application. If you don’t already have one, get your FSA IDs created or confirmed. The new system will pull tax documents, but it still useful to have your previous returns on hand to ensure the correct numbers have been pulled. Have any additional income sources or items related to unique situations on hand, too. Early preparation can mean better access to aid, as much of it is first come, first serve. The faster your application is in, the better luck you’ll have!
Explore Scholarship Opportunities
Summertime is a great time to explore possible scholarship opportunities. I suggest students spend a little time each week searching for scholarships. Remember to look locally, as well as nationally. There’s so many smaller organizations that are less competitive and often overlooked that can still provide you money. Scholarships are free money and don’t have to be paid back. Even smaller awards can help you cover books or other fees.
Learn the Language of Financial Aid
If you’re not familiar with all of the financial aid terms and components now is the time to learn. I recently shared a list of my top financial aid terms to know, so check that out here to start. Reading through other blogs on my site will help you understand all the acronyms and terms. Understanding what you’re reading on the award paperwork will help you make more informed decisions about the money you’re borrowing!
Have Honest Family Conversations About Budget
This summer is a good time to talk with your family about the budget for school. This isn’t just about which schools you can and can’t afford. It’s also time to start thinking about a budget you’ll use while you’re there for the “fun” things and the necessary items. Discuss who would pay for traveling home (if necessary), decide on how and who is going to pay back any student loans you’ll take, and if you’ll need to consider a job while you’re in school. Now is the time to outline the financial differences between “dream schools” and “financial safety schools”, too.Talking about these topics will make the application process – and eventually moving to campus – an easier process.
Visit Colleges (In Person or Virtually) with Financial Fit in Mind
Summer time is a great opening to visit the colleges you’re considering. Make sure you’ll get to talk with the financial aid offices on your trips. Many include sessions focused on financial aid or the cost of college so watch carefully for those. Read more of my tips on visiting campuses here and what to ask the financial aid offices!
Summer may be a break from school, but it’s a golden opportunity to get ahead of the college planning curve. Whether you’re organizing documents, researching scholarships, or just having open conversations about budget and expectations, every small step counts. Remember, financial aid isn’t just about forms. It’s about building a strategy that fits your student’s goals and your family’s budget.
More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors
Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.