Check this resource for understanding the Cost of Attendance at US Universities
FAFSA (for US citizens / green card holders only): https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
FAFSA guidance from NACAC: www.nacacnet.org/resources-for-the-2024-25-fafsa-update/
CSS Profile: https://cssprofile.collegeboard.org/
Big J - Easy to sort spreadsheets with information on financial aid packages (merit- and need-based aid) for both domestic and international students https://www.bigjeducationalconsulting.com/resources
US Department of Education "College Scorecard" - Most relevant for US citizens and permanent residents since it includes information about federal loan packages. Easy to compare affordability of different schools, graduation rates, indebtedness, etc. https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/
Auxilia - search in the USA for international student finance (and check against admit rates!) https://ceg-auxilia.netlify.app/
NACAC have helpful guidance on completing the FAFSA (for US citizens) : https://www.nacacnet.org/resources-for-the-2024-25-fafsa-update/ including this webinar on the new FAFSA system: https://www.nacacnet.org/webinar-2024-25-fafsa-explained/
The Price You Pay for College by Ron Lieber