Wondering how to pay for college without sacrificing your retirement? Before you rule out a private or out-of-state school because of the sticker price, you may be overlooking financial aid opportunities that could make your child’s dream college more affordable than you think.

In this episode, Brock Jolly, CFP®, explains why families shouldn’t assume an in-state public university is always the most affordable option. He breaks down how need-based financial aid, merit scholarships, the Student Aid Index (SAI), Net Price Calculators, and financial aid appeals can affect what your family actually pays for college. Through real-world examples, including a family that saved approximately $168,000 after successfully appealing a financial aid offer, Brock shares practical strategies to help families make more informed college funding decisions.

You’ll learn about:

• Why the sticker price isn’t always what you’ll actually pay for college, and how private colleges can sometimes cost less than in-state public universities.
• How need-based financial aid, merit scholarships, and the Student Aid Index (SAI) influence college affordability and why eligibility can vary from one school to another.
• Why Net Price Calculators aren’t always accurate, what to do if your financial aid offer falls short, and when it makes sense to appeal a college financial aid package.
• What colleges look for when awarding merit scholarships, and how understanding the financial aid process can help families compare college offers with greater confidence.
• And more!

Resources:

• TuitionFit
• Common Data Set

Connect with Brock Jolly:

• 703-424-2401
• Toll-Free: 800-969-2362
• Veritas Financial
• The College Funding Coach
• LinkedIn: Brock Jolly