Class of 2026 High School Graduating Seniors,
May 1, 2026, National College Decision Day is approaching! If you plan to enroll in college for the Fall 2026 semester, you MUST submit your enrollment deposit to your chosen institution to secure your spot. Simply go to the college application portal to review and accept the offer, then pay the enrollment deposit by May 1st. Remember, choosing a college is not just about prestige, rankings, or what “sounds impressive.” It’s about making a well-informed decision for students and their family. Compare the offers carefully and…FOLLOW THE MONEY! That means looking beyond the acceptance letter and asking these pertinent questions:
✅ How much free money (scholarships + grants) is each school offering?
✅ What will you have to borrow — and how much will repayment cost later?
✅ What is the real out-of-pocket cost after aid?
✅ Will your student need loans every year, or just this year?
✅ Does the financial aid package make this school sustainable for four years?
A “dream school” can quickly become a financial nightmare if the numbers don’t work.
Families should prioritize the following:
1. Compare net cost, not sticker price.
Don’t focus on tuition alone. Compare what you’ll actually pay after aid.
2. Evaluate debt before committing.
If one school leaves your child with $10,000 in debt and another leaves them with $60,000 in debt, that matters.
3. Consider scholarship renewability.
Is the scholarship guaranteed for four years? Are there GPA requirements?
4. Think long-term, not just emotional.
A school that gives your student little or no debt can create freedom after graduation.
5. Appeal if needed.
If a college is your student’s top choice but the aid package falls short, ask for a financial aid reconsideration.
The best college decision is often the one that leaves your child with the best financial future. Sometimes the smartest decision is not the most expensive school. Sometimes it’s the school that invested the most in your student. Prestige doesn’t pay back student loans. Scholarships do.