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Insider Blog

College admissions and finance advice from the experts. The Insider blog is where College Coach experts weigh in on the latest college admissions topics. We cover everything from application timelines and strategies to tips on financing your child's education.
                       

College admissions advice
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APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID

10 Reasons for a Financial Aid Appeal

Should you appeal your child’s financial aid offer? College financial aid consultant Shannon Vasconcelos explains the reasons you may want to appeal.

Posted on March 12th, 2026 by Shannon Vasconcelos, College Finance Consultant
student working on computer at library
COLLEGE APPLICATIONS

Is it too late to apply to more colleges?

As admissions decisions arrive, some high school seniors may be second-guessing their college list. Is it too late to apply to additional colleges—and would doing so this late in the game really be a good idea?

Posted on March 10th, 2026 by Emily Toffelmire, College Admissions Consultant
person using calculator to budget
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS CONSULTING

How College Students Can Set Financial Goals

To prepare for financial independence after college, it’s wise to work on budgeting and planning skills while you’re still in college! Learn from one of our finance educators how to set SMART goals and track your progress.

Posted on March 3rd, 2026 by Aimée Yorsaner, College Finance Consultant
teenage friends traveling on bus
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS CONSULTING

Budget-Friendly Spring Break Travel & Money-Saving Tips for Students

Discover budget-friendly spring break ideas for college students, including destinations, travel tips, accommodations, and ways to save on meals and activities.

Posted on February 27th, 2026 by Jess Mosley, College Finance Consultant
father and daughter playing jenga
APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID

Custodial Parent Rules for Financial Aid: How FAFSA and CSS Profile Differ

Unsure which parent to report on FAFSA or the CSS Profile? Understand how custodial parent rules work, what financial support counts, and when exceptions apply.

Posted on February 12th, 2026 by Zachery Gries, College Finance Consultant
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COLLEGE ADMISSIONS CONSULTING

What Does It Mean When a College Sends You Mail?

Is all that mail from colleges a good sign? Read on to learn what mail from colleges really means.

Posted on February 3rd, 2026 by Kennon Dick, College Admissions Consultant
tween girls laughing and doing homework
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS CONSULTING

Cashless Kids: How Tweens Can Navigate a Digital Economy

Help your tween navigate a cashless world with prepaid cards, gift cards, digital wallets, and tips for building smart money habits.

Posted on January 29th, 2026 by Beth Feinberg Keenan, College Finance Consultant
woman on computer in library
COLLEGE APPLICATIONS

How to Approach the AMCAS Experiences Section

While med school application essays matter, students shouldn’t overlook the importance of the experiences section of the AMCAS.

Posted on January 20th, 2026 by Lauren DiProspero, College Admissions Consultant
teenager working as a cashier
HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE

The Benefits of Working During College: Experience, Mentorship, and Community

Student employment offers valuable financial support and helps students develop time‑management, career skills, and a sense of community. Discover why working during college can benefit both academic success and personal growth.

Posted on January 16th, 2026 by Laurie Peltier, College Finance Consultant
teenager working as a cashier
HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE

The Benefits of Working During College: Experience, Mentorship, and Community

Student jobs can ease college costs while boosting time management, experience, and campus connection. Learn why part time work is worth considering.

Posted on January 15th, 2026 by Laurie Peltier, College Finance Consultant

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