Financial Planning for College

Suggested sequence of financial planning for college...

1. Complete the FAFSA (if eligible) 

• FAFSA opens Oct. 1st. it is suggested to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible. Funds do run out, applying earlier allow you to get the most aid possible for your family situation. 

• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): To apply for federal student aid, such as federal grants, work-study, and loans, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)

2. Apply for scholarships

• Xello is our main hub for scholarships. We suggest applying for as many as you can. 

• Apply to La Follette's Local Scholarship (opens in December) 

3. Process FAFSA package and scholarships to determine cost remainder

• Once you get your expected family contribution from FAFSA and financial packages from colleges/universities it is important to compare and contrast packages. What makes the most sense for you and your family? 

4. Check if the school you applied to offers a CSS profile, IF YES then complete that applicaition. (NOTE: UW Madison is now requring the CSS profile to be complete) 

• CSS profile is an additional application SOME schools offer to apply for grants, loans, and scholarships through private school based donors (endowments).