Dear Parents/Guardians and Families,
With the price of college continuing to climb, families are understandably concerned about affording the colleges their children feel are the best match for their interests and abilities. In-state institutions remain the best value for Washington residents, but few students select a college on the basis of affordability alone. When families realize that their child’s list of attractive schools features institutions with costs well over $25,000, many begin to look for assistance.
The following information and worksheets along with the many internet web sites may be of help. In addition Lakeside School’s Director of Financial Aid is another source of dependable information and provides the opportunity to ask questions and compare experiences.
- Student Aid Program Summary (describes eligibility requirements and features of student aid programs)
- Financial Aid Application Checklist (running list of necessary actions with space for the student to enter due dates and to check off accomplished items)
- Application Form Tracking Worksheet (tracks each school's application and documentation requirements for aid)
- Cost of Attendance Comparison Worksheet (lays out and compares attendance costs for each school under consideration; focuses student's expectations to realistic levels)
- Award Package Comparison Worksheet (guides the family and counselor in comparing aid packages from different schools)
- Financial Aid Consultants and Scholarship Search Services Fact Sheet (helps avoid unnecessary and costly reliance on paid consultants to obtain help and advice that is available at no charge)
- Sample Scholarship Inquiry Letter (suggests how a student might inquire about financial aid from a private organization)
- Tips for Foster Youth
15 Things To Know About Financial Aid For College
15 Questions You Should Ask About a College's Financial Aid Program