As financial aid award letters begin to arrive mid April, college hopefuls realize a letter of acceptance is only the first step in deciding which school they will attend in the fall. Now is the time to compare award letters and make those extra appl
As financial aid award letters begin to arrive mid April, college hopefuls realize a letter of acceptance is only the first step in deciding which school they will attend in the fall. A student who applies to six colleges can receive a different award package from each school. The all- important award letter spells out exactly what type and how much financial assistance will be extended.

Many parents and students assume, based on federal regulation, they will get the same basic award from each school. But, that is far from the truth. So, what do you do when your top choice school doesn