Many parents assume their child would never meet the criteria for financial aid.   Financial aid comes in many forms and failing to at least try to qualify for it is a huge mistake made by numerous parents of college bound students.

One of the many myths we hear is that parents believe their income is too high. Granted, a high level of income will not help you qualify for a large sum of free financial aid, but you need to understand that income is only part of the equation. The overall formula used by the Department of Education is complex and confusing. Do not let a high level of income deter you from attempting to qualify.

Another often heard excuse is "my student's grades are too low". Unless your child is failing, aid has nothing to do with grades. The intricate government formula simply does not include grades. If your child is failing, would college be a wise pursuit anyway?

Sixty-five percent of American families own their own home. One of the myths is that this eliminates families from aid consideration. Again, this is baloney. On the federal aid form (FAFSA) you will not find a space to insert information about your home.

"Aid is only for special groups" is another popular argument. Again, the formula for qualifying does not ask about where you are in relation to society – the criteria are strictly based on certain financial numbers the Department of Education requires.

Many parents and students feel that guidance counselors and financial aid officers (or your accountant) can do all of this for you. First of all, it is not an easy process. Second, the whole process can be very time-consuming, perhaps like some tax returns.

Those who know and understand the process can benefit from the financial aid available. It’s necessary to manage the complex formulas, rules and regulations the Department of Education has devised.  Though the information is public it’s not always easily and does not provide specific guidance as to the best ways to ultimately pay for what is referred to as the “expected family contribution”.

Professional college planners offer parents the opportunity to tap into their expertise at a nominal cost. You’ll benefit by sending your student to college for a reasonable amount of money while fully complying with all forms and procedures.  And, you can accomplish this without going broke. By employing professionals, you’ll achieve peace of mind knowing that everything that could possibly be done for your child is covered.