• Pre-college analysis of income and other factors that may affect your college aid eligibility.

• Evaluate a variety of colleges (at all expense levels) that conform to educational and financial needs then wait for colleges to make their financial aid offers before making a choice.

• File all necessary financial aid forms.

• Calculate EFC (Expected Family Contribution) in order to maximize benefits.

• Process verification of the application forms.

• Review and compare financial aid awards offers.

Typical recommendations include:

• Enhancement of eligibility for Hope and Lifetime Learning Education Tax Credits.

• Plan to maximize Tuition and Fees Deduction and Student Loan Interest Tax Deduction.

• Analysis of benefits of the Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA) and penalty-free withdrawals from traditional

• Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA).

• Provide sources of information for clients to search and locate merit scholarships and grants from private sources and colleges.

• Investigate possibility of tuition discounts.

• Analysis of Federal, private and alternative loan programs.

• Explore ways to accelerate time in college.

• Base negotiations on student merit or the college interest in matriculating the student.

• Prepare appeal letters, if necessary.