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Why College “Fit” Matters More Than Rankings—And How Distance from Home Plays a Role

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Why College “Fit” Matters More Than Rankings—And How Distance from Home Plays a Role

One thing we see time and time again is this: every college-bound student is unique. Each brings different strengths, needs, personalities, and goals to the table. A school that is an incredible match for one student could be a poor fit for another—even when GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars look nearly identical on paper.

Because of this, choosing a college should be about far more than prestige or this year’s rankings in a national magazine. Instead, families are best served by focusing on how well a school truly fits the individual student. That means looking beyond surface-level statistics and considering the environment, academic offerings, support systems, and overall experience a school provides.

Of course, every student should aim high and apply to strong institutions that can support their future goals. But “best” is not defined by rankings alone—many of which are based on metrics that have little to do with the day-to-day student experience or educational quality. One of the things we pride ourselves on is helping families see past the headlines to identify colleges and programs that genuinely align with each student we are privileged to work with.

One often overlooked—but critically important—factor in this process is distance from home. Geography can influence not only the total cost of attendance, but also how smoothly a student adjusts during that pivotal first year of college.

This month, we’re taking a closer look at how distance from home—both near and far—can affect college costs and the freshman-year transition. There are no one-size-fits-all answers here, but we hope these considerations provide helpful insight as families weigh their options.

Consideration #1: Travel Expenses

The cost of simply getting to and from campus can add up quickly, depending on where a student chooses to attend college. For example, a student from the Pacific Northwest attending school in Florida will likely face significant airfare costs—often assuming just one round trip per semester, with no additional visits home. While that may be manageable for some families, unexpected trips due to emergencies or homesickness can quickly strain a budget.

That said, schools closer to home can come with their own hidden travel costs. A college just “a couple hours away” may encourage frequent weekend trips home—or visits to friends—which can quietly add up through gas, tolls, or bus fares. When a campus is nearby, setting clear expectations and boundaries around travel is important.

Another expense families don’t always factor in early is travel related to study abroad or partner programs, whether international or domestic. These opportunities can be incredibly valuable, but airfare and related costs can be substantial if they aren’t planned for in advance. Students interested in these programs should think ahead so travel expenses can be incorporated into the overall financial plan.

With thoughtful planning—and a little financial flexibility—travel costs don’t have to be overwhelming. But based on our experience, they are absolutely something families should anticipate rather than overlook.

Consideration #2: Living Expenses

Living farther from home can increase a student’s overall cost of living, even when room and board are fixed. While many colleges require freshmen to live on campus, additional day-to-day expenses can creep in quickly without a clear budget and the discipline to stick to it.

Students who are far from home often socialize around meals, which is perfectly normal—but eating out frequently can put a serious dent in a semester budget. Those small expenses can add up faster than most families expect.

Students who live at home while attending a nearby college may save on housing and food costs, though the savings can vary. While living at home isn’t always the “traditional” college experience students imagine, it is almost always less expensive than living on or near campus—even just a few towns away.

Location also matters when it comes to cost of living. A university in a major city like New York will typically come with much higher everyday expenses than a school in a rural or suburban setting, even if tuition is similar. This doesn’t make an urban school a poor choice—but it does mean those costs should be considered early in the planning process to allow for smart financial decisions.

Consideration #3: Homesickness

It’s difficult to predict how a student will handle being away from home until they experience it firsthand. Some students are eager to venture far from home, while others prefer to stay closer—and sometimes the students most excited to leave are the ones most surprised by homesickness.

Living at home during college largely eliminates homesickness, but even students attending school nearby may miss family, friends, or familiar routines. Being close enough for a quick weekend visit can make a big difference when those feelings arise.

At the same time, today’s students have access to communication tools that make staying connected easier than ever. Video calls, texting, and social media can help bridge the distance—even for students studying across the country or abroad.

The key is open communication and realistic expectations. When families talk honestly about how homesickness might be handled, it’s usually manageable without long-term effects on a student’s success—or the family budget.

Consideration #4: College Environment

Perhaps most important of all is whether a college truly fits a student’s personality, interests, and goals. No matter how highly ranked a school may be, it cannot provide the best possible education if the environment doesn’t align with the student.

Large universities in major cities can offer incredible opportunities—but they aren’t ideal for everyone. Some students thrive in smaller, close-knit, or more rural campus settings. The same is true academically: a well-known university may offer an average program in a particular major, while a smaller institution may be highly respected within that specific field.

Campus culture, academic focus, class size, location, and even climate can all influence a student’s happiness and success. These factors deserve thoughtful discussion, and we encourage both parents and students to explore them together as part of the decision-making process.

We’re always happy to help families talk through these preferences and priorities so students can choose a college where they can truly thrive.

Until next month,

 

 

 

One of the Biggest Financial Decisions Your Family Will Ever Make

For most families, planning for college isn’t just another task—it’s one of the largest financial decisions you’ll ever make. The stakes are high, the timeline is short, and the process can feel overwhelming.

That’s why Midwest College Planning exists: to bring clarity, reduce stress, and help families make smart, informed decisions about college—without costly guesswork.

Working with families across the US and beyond, we see the same challenges repeatedly. These missteps often make college planning harder and more expensive than necessary. Here’s what to watch for—and how to avoid it.

1. Apathy: “We’ll figure it out later.”

Many families start the college search without a plan to pay for it. They assume financial aid will appear, scholarships will cover the gap, or students can work their way through school.

Unfortunately, none of that happens by accident.

College costs rise every year, and families who wait too long often find their options limited. A strong plan starts early—with a clear understanding of costs, affordability, and realistic expectations before applications go out.

2. Disillusionment: “We’re hoping for a full ride.”

We hear this all the time—and we wish it were more common.

The reality?
Full-ride scholarships are rare.

Students who receive them usually combine strong academics, meaningful involvement, and the right school fit. While merit and need-based aid are available, finding it requires research, strategy, and realistic expectations.

There is money out there—but it takes work to find the right match.

3. Choosing “Easy” Instead of “Right.”

Some families choose a college because:

  • It’s close to home
  • It’s the first acceptance
  • A friend attends
  • It feels simplest

Convenience matters—but it shouldn’t drive the decision. College affects academic success, mental health, career outcomes, and long-term finances.

Often, the “easy” choice ends up being the most expensive one.

4. The Myth of “We’ve Got This.”

We hear two common versions:

“My student will work to pay for college.”
We love a strong work ethic—but let’s be realistic. There is no part-time job that covers today’s tuition without sacrificing academics or wellbeing.

“I read a book—we don’t need help.”
Books provide information, but they don’t create a plan.

They can’t:

  • Analyze your family’s finances
  • Compare real aid offers
  • Identify colleges likely to offer strong merit or need-based aid
  • Navigate changing policies
  • Prevent costly mistakes

Information is helpful.
Strategy saves money.

How Midwest College Planning Helps

We support families through the entire process by:

  • Building a smart, affordable college list
  • Explaining the real cost of college
  • Identifying schools with strong merit and need-based aid
  • Helping families avoid unnecessary debt
  • Creating a realistic academic and financial plan
  • Supporting both parents and students every step of the way

College planning is too important to leave to chance. With the right guidance, families can make confident decisions—and protect their financial future.

Final Thoughts for Parents

You don’t have to navigate this alone.

Even though colleges are not-for-profit, they operate like a business. A thoughtful, informed college plan can save your family thousands of dollars—and countless hours of stress.

Midwest College Planning is here to help you make college a smart investment, not a financial burden.

 

Optimize College Education for Real World Work Environment

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“Top Ways To Optimize College Education For

The Real World Work Environment”

There’s a tremendous amount of work—and sustained effort—that goes into guiding a high school student through graduation and into a great college or university. But once they arrive on campus at their dream school, students quickly learn that a whole new set of exciting (and often challenging) expectations awaits them.

One of the most important things we do as advisors is help families optimize their efforts—not just in high school, but throughout the college years as well. Preparing for a successful college experience and a rewarding career takes more than financial planning. It requires strategy, self-awareness, and an understanding of what truly matters over the next four years.

Because here’s the reality: getting into college is a big achievement, but it doesn’t mean much if a student becomes part of the roughly 32% of college freshmen who never complete their bachelor’s degree. And even among those who do graduate, many enter the workforce without the skills, direction, or experiences that make them competitive job candidates.

With this in mind, this month’s newsletter highlights several key steps students can take to make their college years meaningful preparation for life after graduation. Students who use these strategies early and intentionally can avoid the frustration far too many new graduates face—earning a diploma but struggling to find a rewarding job.

After reviewing this month’s newsletter, if you have questions about helping your student prepare for college—and everything that comes after—please reach out. We’re here to support both the academic and the financial pieces of the journey, and our guidance can strengthen your family’s planning for the exciting years ahead.

1) Begin With the End in Mind

Some students start college with a clear career path. Many do not. Both situations are perfectly normal—but students without a firm plan should use the early college years to explore interests, build strong academic habits, and open doors for future opportunities.

A smart first step is front-loading required courses. Knocking out general education classes early gives students more flexibility later—exactly when internships, major coursework, and professional opportunities start to emerge. It also helps them adjust to the academic rigor of college without the added pressure of advanced major-specific classes.

Students who enter college knowing their intended career path can benefit from the same approach. General education courses are unavoidable, but careful planning—often with the help of an advisor—can reveal classes that count toward both major and core requirements. This streamlines the path to graduation and keeps future options wide open.

2) Work With Good Academic Advisors

A good academic advisor is worth their weight in gold. Many colleges assign advisors simply by last name or department availability. While these advisors can help students understand which classes meet which requirements (and that’s important!), they aren’t always the best resource for career-specific guidance.

Most campuses also have specialty advising offices for competitive career tracks like medicine, law, engineering, or business. These advisors understand the nuances of graduate school applications, interviews, and prerequisite planning.

Outside of campus, professionals in a student’s field of interest can offer invaluable real-world insight. A strong advisor—whether found inside or outside the university—helps students understand not just what to study, but why it matters for their long-term goals.

The bottom line: students should actively seek accurate, timely, and career-aligned advice—not just settle for the first advisor they’re assigned.

3) Don’t Ignore the Value of a Minor

Majors get most of the attention, but minors can be incredibly useful. They require fewer courses, yet they still add depth and versatility to a student’s academic profile.

A minor can:

  • highlight a secondary area of interest

  • demonstrate broader skills

  • add practical abilities (like a second language or computer programming)

  • naturally emerge from completing certain prerequisites

For example, many pre-med students accidentally complete a chemistry minor simply by taking the courses required for medical school applications.

Minors also look great on résumés. They show commitment, intellectual curiosity, and a willingness to explore beyond the basics.

4) Diversify Your Options

We always encourage students to work hard toward their goals—but to stay open-minded, too. Success rarely follows a straight line. Career paths evolve, interests shift, and opportunities arise in unexpected places.

Students who diversify their plans—by exploring different fields, staying curious, and being open to new experiences—often discover opportunities they never knew existed. Flexibility, paired with ambition, is a powerful combination.

Encourage your student to aim high, stay engaged, and keep their eyes open. College is a time of tremendous discovery, and the students who embrace that mindset often enjoy the most rewarding outcomes.

Until next month,

Stay Motivated to Reach Your College Goals

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Staying Focused on College Goals: Strategies for Gifted and Driven Students

Even the most gifted and talented students can occasionally be tempted to “drift” during the school year. In fact, bright students may be even more susceptible to losing focus when they lack sufficient academic challenge or stimulation. For this reason, it’s important for both parents and students to stay mindful of effective ways to remain focused on long-term goals—even when others may lose their way temporarily or, unfortunately, more permanently.

Every school year brings its share of ups and downs, but the students who maintain consistent focus and motivation throughout high school are typically those who find themselves in the strongest position when it comes time to graduate and move on to the next stage of life.

Fortunately, there are a number of proven strategies that can help students stay on track with their college preparation goals. Identifying which approaches work best for your student can pay major dividends throughout the high school experience.

In this month’s newsletter, we’re sharing some of the top tips for helping students keep their eye on the “college ball” during their preparatory years. If you have specific questions—or would like more personalized guidance—please don’t hesitate to contact us. As college funding professionals and application experts, we are uniquely equipped to provide the details, planning, and strategies that can make a lasting difference for your family’s college journey.

Tip 1: Focus on Specifics

The details matter—and they’re different for everyone. Each student has unique strengths and weaknesses. For instance, one student might struggle to keep track of notes or materials from a particular class. A simple, specific strategy could be to organize and store all materials immediately after class. This small, targeted action eliminates the problem of misplaced notes.

Another common challenge is procrastination—something almost all students face. Attaching specific actions to goals can help combat this tendency. For example, setting a rule to finish homework before engaging in social activities builds discipline, focus, and confidence when followed consistently.

Tip 2: Stay Positive

Attitude plays a major role in academic success. As Charles R. Swindoll wisely said, “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” High school is full of challenges—whether it’s a difficult class, a tough teacher, or even illness—but how students respond to these obstacles can determine their ultimate success.

Staying positive doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties; it means looking for the silver lining and learning from every experience. Maintaining an optimistic mindset helps students avoid getting bogged down by negativity that can drain motivation and focus.

Tip 3: Prioritize, Prioritize, Prioritize!

When faced with multiple tasks, most people instinctively tackle the easiest one first—but that isn’t always the smartest move. True prioritization means identifying which tasks matter most in relation to long-term goals.

Easier classes might not require immediate attention, while more challenging subjects may need to come first. Taking time to evaluate which areas demand the most focus allows students to allocate their effort wisely and stay on course toward academic success.

Tip 4: Swallow Pride—Ask for Help When Needed

Admitting the need for help can be difficult, but it’s also a sign of maturity and self-awareness. When challenges arise, it’s crucial to seek assistance early before falling too far behind.

Whether it’s asking a teacher for clarification, finding a tutor, or reaching out to peers for support, even small amounts of extra help can make a big difference in staying motivated and on track.

Tip 5: Set SMART Goals

Goal-setting is one of the most effective ways to stay motivated. A simple but powerful framework is to set SMART goals—those that are:

  • Specific – Clearly define what you want to accomplish.

  • Measurable – Track progress with concrete milestones.

  • Attainable – Set goals that are challenging but realistic.

  • Relevant – Focus on goals that directly support academic and personal success.

  • Timely – Establish deadlines to maintain accountability.

For example, instead of vaguely resolving to “get better at math,” a SMART goal might be: “Raise my algebra grade from a B to an A by the end of the semester through weekly review sessions and regular practice.”

Writing down goals, creating timelines, and revisiting them regularly keeps students on a clear and measurable path to achievement.

Tip 6: Take Time to Reassess

Even the best-laid plans encounter obstacles. That’s why it’s essential to periodically review goals and strategies to see what’s working—and what’s not.

Regular reassessment allows for course corrections before small setbacks turn into major roadblocks. Adjusting plans as needed isn’t a sign of failure; it’s a smart, proactive approach that helps ensure steady progress toward success.

Remember, assessment isn’t just a beginning-and-end exercise—it’s an ongoing process throughout the high school years, and one of the most powerful tools for long-term achievement.

Parents, Stop: Lessons in Letting Go

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Parenting a teenager can feel like balancing on a tightrope. On one side is the desire to protect and ensure their success; on the other is the need to let them grow, make mistakes, and learn independence. As the college years draw near, the stakes feel higher, and many parents instinctively lean toward controlling the process. But here’s the hard truth: if we don’t let go, our kids won’t be ready to thrive once they leave home.

Here are three big reminders for parents preparing their children for college and beyond:

1. Let Your Child Fail—and Grow From It

Failure isn’t a sign that you’ve done something wrong as a parent—it’s a normal, healthy part of growing up. Think back to when your child first learned to ride a bike. You probably ran alongside for the first few wobbly tries, but eventually you had to let go. They fell, maybe scraped a knee, and cried a little. But they also got back up, tried again, and learned to balance.

High school and college work the same way. A forgotten homework assignment, a missed curfew, or even a disappointing test score teaches lessons that no amount of parental reminding can replace. These small failures build resilience, time-management skills, and problem-solving abilities.

Tip for parents: Before rushing in to “fix” something for your child—pause. Ask yourself, what lesson might they learn if I step back? Sometimes the most loving thing you can do is let the mistake play out.

2. Guide—Don’t Micromanage

It’s natural to want to smooth the path for your child, especially when it comes to something as intimidating as the college process. But there’s a big difference between guiding and micromanaging.

  • Guiding looks like asking open-ended questions: “What do you like about this college?” or “How do you see yourself balancing school and a job?”
  • Micromanaging looks like filling out applications for them, rewriting their essays, or controlling their schedules down to the hour.

The problem with micromanagement is that it robs students of ownership. When they don’t have to make their own decisions—or deal with the consequences—they arrive at college underprepared for independence.

Tip for parents: Treat the college process as practice for adulthood. Encourage your student to set deadlines, make appointments, and do the research. Be a sounding board, not the driver.

3. Be Realistic About College Costs

Here’s a myth that stubbornly lingers: “If my child just works hard enough in the summer, they can pay for college.” That might have been true a generation or two ago, but it’s not today. The average cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses has far outpaced what a summer job—or even a part-time job during the school year—can cover.

Summer earnings are important, but they usually go toward books, transportation, or personal spending money—not tuition. Expecting your student to cover significant tuition costs alone will almost always lead to frustration.

Tip for parents: Have honest conversations about money early and often. Discuss what the family can contribute, what’s expected of the student, and how scholarships, grants, and financial aid fit into the picture. When everyone understands the financial reality, the college decision becomes much clearer.

Final Thought: Step Back So They Can Step Up

Parenting in the teen years is less about controlling outcomes and more about preparing your child for the next stage of life. By letting them fail (safely), guiding instead of micromanaging, and being open about the financial side of college, you’re setting them up for success far beyond the classroom.

It’s not always easy to loosen the reins—but remember, college isn’t just about academics. It’s about growing into an independent, capable adult. And that growth begins the moment you stop doing everything for them and start letting them do more on their own.

 

Finding the Fit

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We love guiding families through the process of finding a school that truly fits a student—academically, socially, and financially. One of our favorite moments is when everything clicks, and the hard work pays off with that big “aha!” for the family.

Academically, the fit starts with research. Through conversations about goals, strengths, and interests, we create an initial list of schools. The student then takes ownership—researching, weighing pros and cons, and sharing insights. Together, we refine and repeat this process until the list narrows to about 7–12 schools that align with academic goals. At the same time, we help students strengthen their résumés, so they check the right boxes for admissions officers.

Socially, the fit is often more intuitive. As the academic list takes shape, we look at the bigger picture—extracurriculars, internships, weekend fun, food, and campus culture. This is where students with passions like athletics, theatre, or leadership can dive deeper, connecting with coaches, professors, and campus organizations.

Financially, the fit can be the most challenging. For most families, this responsibility falls to the parents. We begin with a budget worksheet, then move to the tough but necessary question: How will you pay for college? College is a major investment, and we work to understand each family’s unique dynamics so we can build a realistic, sustainable plan.

Finding the right school takes time, energy, and commitment—but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

Feel free to call and schedule a free consultation 614.230.1208

How Procrastination Affects Admissions and Financial Aid

“Five Ways That Procrastination
Can Undermine Both College Admissions
And College Funding”

Dear Parent,

One of the most important elements of college preparation – both for admissions and for college funding – is simply being prepared in advance for the process. Even the best-laid plans are not fail-safe if they are implemented too late in the game, and this is a reality that we see year after year, time and time again in this business. For this reason, we are constantly encouraging students and their families to start their college preparations early on, so that they can be best prepared for every eventuality.

There is no question that it is a big job, however, and this is probably one of the biggest reasons that people can tend to put off their action steps until deadlines approach – and as we have seen many times, at this point it is often simply too late to have a significantly positive effect on the outcomes of applications and financial preparations.

As college funding advisors who understand the ins and outs of the application and financial aid processes, we stand ready to serve families with college-bound kids, and we also know exactly what steps need to be taken at each stage of the high school years. The simple fact is that ignoring these steps early on can have a deleterious effect on a young person’s college opportunities, both through the admissions cycle and through the realities of college funding.

We have decided this month to share some of the pitfalls that can be avoided by proper planning and preparation in advance, in the hopes that more families will take the steps needed to avoid procrastination and create the best options for their child’s experience in higher education. The good news is that this sort of preparation, when undertaken properly, dramatically lowers the workload for both parents and students later in the high school years. The better prepared a family is for college, both academically and financially, the more options are available after high school – and the less they will stress out during the senior year of high school! Starting early is honestly not that difficult, if you know what you are trying to accomplish and what you are trying to avoid, so we urge you to have a look at these viable and vital reasons to avoid procrastinating college preparation.

Should you happen to have any questions, of course we are always ready to assist – because it is certain that procrastination of these important steps can definitely come back to bite a family later!

**********

Not Starting The Process Early Enough

When a child is born, to the minds of the parents he or she is perfect, and represents all the best possibilities in the world. At that time, however, it’s often difficult for new parents to imagine that in only 18 short years, that baby will be heading off to college. Planning early will be the best decision a parent can make concerning his college funding.

It is no secret that, in many areas, college costs are spiraling out of control and they are overwhelming to many parents. One of the first things that parents can do is calculate what they think will be needed for college for their child. This can give a rough estimate on what needs to be saved each month. However, it is a good idea to have some reasonable input from a knowledgeable source before planning with these numbers.

With that said, this amount is not hard and fast. It’s there to give an indication. The point is, parents should start planning as early as possible for college, and the best way to do that is through consultation with a College Funding Advisor. Frankly, most people do not start really working on this when their child is small, but it certainly can make a huge difference later.

As the old Chinese proverb goes, however “The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago… the second best time is now.” So if you have a college bound child – now is the time to take some positive steps!

Not Strategically Moving Assets Soon Enough

Retirement assets will usually (hopefully!) take decades to deplete. However, college funding will usually be used up in a narrow time frame – usually within 5 years, unless graduate or professional school is involved. This shortened amount of time means that one does not have the flexibility to ‘ride it out’ in the event of a major market fluctuation like they would a regular retirement account. This is one big reason that there are different types of college funding options to consider.

When it comes to preparing your child for college, having access to educational funds is vitally important. Regular, high-risk investments might be able to tolerate the ups and downs when one does not need access to the money in the near future. However, it is a good idea to discuss college funding options with an expert to find options with the most stability. If one procrastinates then those funds may not be there when they are needed.

Waiting Too Long to Apply for Aid

Filling out the FAFSA is not exactly something any parent looks forward to. However, waiting too long to fill out these types of forms, or simply getting them turned in by the posted deadlines may be a serious mistake. Many schools have a much earlier deadline than FAFSA’s and that could make it impossible to qualify for most financial aid.

The FAFSA form takes approximately 30 minutes to fill out. It is a good idea to simply do it as soon as possible to avoid have any complications with acquiring aid for the coming school year. It is also something that should be discussed with an expert to make sure nothing is missed and all of the information is properly completed.

Comparing the deadlines for all of the colleges and universities your child is interested in applying for and making doubly sure that all of the financial information is ready to go when filling out the FAFSA will pay dividends if done early. Of course, that will also assume that parents need to have their taxes prepared and filed so that all of the information is ready and can be provided on the appropriate forms. Whatever you do, do not miss these deadlines!

Forgetting the FAFSA is Required Every Year

Just because parents have dutifully filled out the FAFSA one time does NOT mean all is well in that regard moving forward to the following years. Your child’s eligibility for financial aid from one year, unfortunately, will not necessarily carry over to the following year. Each year’s decision is based on new financial information, so the form must be filled out each and every year of college. Remember that family circumstances can change from year to year and those changes may affect eligibility.

If your child is still in college then a form will need to be filled out for the following year. It’s just as simple as that. On the good side, if you have a College Funding Advisor – then you also have a built-in reminder service!

Not Curbing Procrastination Habits Early

Procrastinating high school students almost invariably will become procrastinating college students. Habits take time to form and if procrastinating to get things done while in high school is how things were accomplished, there is a very reasonable worry that the same behavior will continue at the next level. High school is often demanding and rigorous, but not nearly as much as students will see in college. The college or university life lacks the automatic structure of parents, as well as attendance requirement from high school. Students who don’t show up to class and/or procrastinate doing their course work don’t just get a bad grade, they’re wasting a lot of money!

For this reason, it is vital to curb procrastinating ways sooner rather than later, and high school is the place to get that done. If distractions are a problem, find a space that is free from distractions. Create a place where your child can study that is calm and will allow him or her to focus without being tempted to turn on the TV or  the internet.

Staying focused, being disciplined and meeting deadlines is extremely important not just for getting into college, but for everything that will come after college!

For the latest information on college planning, admissions, and financial aid; follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Until next month,

marc signature

 

 

Hidden Costs of College Revealed

The Hidden Costs of College

What Families Often Overlook — Until It’s Too Late

When it comes to planning for college, most families brace themselves for the cost of tuition. But what often catches them off guard are the other expenses — the hidden costs that don’t always show up on the financial aid award letter but can make a significant impact on your college budget.

As college funding advisors, we’ve seen how easily these surprise costs can derail even the most well-planned college funding strategy. That’s why we’re using this month’s blog to highlight some of the most overlooked (but very real) expenses that show up during the college years. If you’re preparing to send a student off to college — or you’re already in the thick of it — this breakdown is for you.

1. Living Expenses: More Than Just a Dorm and a Meal Plan

Most families expect to pay for room and board — but what that actually includes can vary widely. Whether your student is living on-campus, moving off-campus, or switching living arrangements between academic years, housing costs can balloon quickly.

Here’s what often gets underestimated:

  • Off-campus rent (which may not include utilities or internet)

  • Takeout and restaurant food, especially without a structured meal plan

  • Transportation, including gas, car insurance, or rideshare expenses

  • Mobile phone and streaming bills

Even when schools provide an estimated cost of attendance, their numbers might not reflect your student’s lifestyle or actual choices — and they rarely overestimate. A sudden change in living arrangements mid-year can also throw off a carefully constructed budget.

Pro tip: Reevaluate housing plans each year and consult with a college funding advisor before making any big changes.

2. Direct Academic Costs: It’s Not Just Tuition

Tuition may be the headline cost, but it’s far from the only one. Many academic programs carry hidden fees that can sneak up on families:

  • Lab fees for science and engineering courses

  • Course materials, including online platforms or software licenses

  • Tutoring, especially if outside academic support is needed

Even students in general education classes may find extra charges attached. These can be manageable with a plan — but without one, they’re just another line item that adds financial stress.

3. Extracurricular Opportunities (and Their Price Tags)

Clubs, internships, study abroad programs, and other enrichment opportunities can be incredible — and expensive. These activities are often essential for building resumes and life experiences, but they come with costs like:

  • Program and travel expenses for study abroad

  • Membership dues for clubs and professional associations

  • Training or certification programs for career-specific development

Planning for these opportunities early on — even in broad strokes — helps ensure they’re part of the budget, not a financial emergency.

4. Unnecessary (But All-Too-Common) Expenses

Not all college costs are necessary — in fact, some of the most expensive ones are completely avoidable. Poor planning, lack of accountability, and lifestyle choices can drive up costs far beyond what’s needed. A few examples we see far too often:

  • Extra semesters due to changing majors, failed classes, or poor planning

  • Over-spending on entertainment or social activities, draining the budget

  • Unmanaged food expenses, especially for students with no meal plan

The national average for completing a bachelor’s degree has crept past four years — and every extra semester means another round of tuition, fees, and living costs.

A clear academic roadmap and structured budget can make all the difference.

Planning Ahead = Peace of Mind

College is a major investment — financially, emotionally, and personally. The good news? Many of these hidden costs are predictable when you know what to look for. That’s where we come in.

At Midwest College Planning, we help families understand the full financial picture — not just tuition, but all the variables that impact the bottom line. Whether you’re still in the early planning stages or already navigating college bills, we’re here to help you make smart, informed decisions that keep your goals on track.

Need guidance on your college financial plan? Let’s talk.

                                                                                 

Financial Realities of College-how much do you share?

     

 “The Financial Realities Of College:

How Much Should YOUR Child Know Before Starting?”

As summer is in full swing it may become more and more challenging for families to think about preparing for college.  We mentioned last month, planning for college is about having conversations.  Be sure to include the reality of college expense.   Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, these financial details are often ignored… and both parents and students can be guilty in this regard.  This can definitely have a detrimental  effect on their levels of financial, academic, and personal stress during the college experience.

We understand fully that preparing for college or university studies can be stressful, in many ways.  Perhaps because of this reality, there can be a tendency for people to want to ignore some of the more challenging topics related to the transition to the next level of education.  However, ignoring these topics does not make them disappear.  By the same token, if only the parents (or, more rarely, only the students) are involved in these preparations, then it is not a team effort and there can be miscommunications and problems further down the road.  Our experience has been that it is absolutely vital for parents and students to have a mutual understanding of how things are proceeding for college preparation.

For this month’s newsletter, then, we want to explain a few of the most important elements that new college students (and high school students) should understand when it comes to starting their experience in higher education.  Yes, there will be a lot of students in their peer group – far too many, in our experience – who have no idea about these things.  However, rest assured that this lack of knowledge will more than likely become something that will come back to haunt them in the end.

As college funding professionals – and people who deal with these things on a daily basis – we want to help you and your family to experience a smooth transition into and through college or university studies.  We have a special skill set and will be happy to assist in any way possible with your family’s plans in this regard.

 Be Clear From the Beginning
Culturally, we tend to have many “taboo” subjects in the US. Depending on the individual, they may range from religion to sex to money. The subject of money, in particular when it comes to higher education, can get families into deep water if not dealt with from the very beginning with honesty and clarity.
How to pay for college should be a family discussion. This is a subject that should take center stage when getting ready to choose a school. It will have a lot to do with the choices your child will be able to make about where to go. It can also have a big impact on the family for the future.
If your child has his or her heart set on a ‘dream’ school then it is important to have the discussion and have the plans in place to cover the costs of such a school. This can all be done strategically and carefully, as well, with a thorough college funding expert. No parent wants to be saddled with massive amounts of debt when looking to cover costs at a prestigious school, nor do children want to feel that they have become a burden that the family has to bear in order for them to attend school.
Communication and (early!) preparation are really the keys, here. Will the parents be covering the entire costs of college? Will it be a combination of loans for the child plus what the family is able to contribute, or can this be avoided with proper planning?  (Note: it often can.) Having clear goals from the beginning and discussing those goals openly as a family will only bode well for the future college student. Tackling those goals with an expert will make it possible to move forward with those plans smoothly and successfully.

Focusing on the “Why” of College
Unfortunately, we see that students may not fully grasp the concept of ‘why.’ In fact, many visit colleges and make decisions on whether to attend or not based on a ‘vibe’ they get at the school, or where all of their friends are planning to go. It is important to make the most informed decision possible when going to college. This starts with the ‘why’ of going to college and then extends all the way through to the ‘where’ of going to college!
Some of the things that should be discussed and explored before beginning a college search include finding out what your child’s academic motivations are. Once these are laid out, it can be easier to look at options at that point. Clarifying interests and academic goals and motivations will make choosing the right college easier and it will mostly likely be a much better return on the investment. Not every child is clear on his or her ambitions in the teen years, however. This does not mean that all is lost. If they are not sure exactly where their academic focus is you are still able to make informed decisions. If they are able to narrow their interests down to a few different areas then you can search for colleges that have strong programs in the areas where their interests lie.  All of these discussions, when completed early on, can go a long way toward making the transition to college more manageable.

How (Or How Much) To Contribute
Many parents feel guilty if they determine that their ability to completely pay for their child’s education is not possible. It is easy to find parents who have gone into massive debt in order to make their child’s dreams of a college education possible even when it puts their own financial stability in jeopardy. This is one instance where having a solid college planning expert will help to ensure that these types of dire situations can be avoided.
Parents taking stock of what is realistic and what their child’s goals are will be very important in the part of the planning process. Do the parents want their child to attend a specific school?  Even more importantly, is that school a good fit for the student?  If so, is it currently possible to send them there, considering academic and financial realities?  What other options are available?  Once these questions are asked then the parents can move forward and see what will be required in terms of their contribution.
It is also important for parents to understand that where their child goes to college is not a reflection of their parenting skills or who they are as people. Keeping their child financially secure is a major requirement for parents and placing them in a school that they cannot afford and/or will place an undue burden on their child by way of student loans is not a great way for a child to be starting out in life. Planning ahead and making prudent choices based upon real financial circumstances and careful planning with an advisor will ensure the best choice possible is made that will benefit all parties over the long run.

Managing Parental Contribution/Retirement
There is no question that paying for a child’s college education can be a big sacrifice for parents. Parents who have an average annual income of $100,000, for example, can find that college expenses for just one child run $100,000 (and that is being moderate)… which can mean that they should expect to work an extra 10+ years in order to recoup those costs. That could mean delaying retirement in most cases – or, as mentioned above, saddling kids with significant student debt.
Because of these realities, this is another area where careful and early planning can make all the difference. The right adjustments and placing money in the proper strategic places may help to prevent some of the drastic measures to which many people succumb. These are definitely things that can and should be discussed with the college planning advisor – and the earlier that happens, the better! 

Probably the most important element of this part of college preparation can be boiled down to “communication!”  When people do not know exactly what is expected of them (financially, or in any other facet of life) then they are much more likely to make significant mistakes.  This is even more apparent when it comes to young people who are just starting out on their own – at college, or anywhere else… the more things can be clarified and communicated, the more likely they are to be able to manage these expectations successfully.

Until next month,

Why Hiring a College Planner Makes Sense

If you’re a parent of a high school student, chances are the word college brings up a mix of emotions—excitement, pride, maybe even a bit of panic. Between rising tuition costs, competitive admissions, and endless deadlines, navigating the college planning process can feel like a full-time job. That’s where Midwest College Planning comes in—and why hiring us can be one of the smartest investments you make in your child’s future.

1. Expertise You Can Trust

College planners live and breathe this stuff. From understanding the nuances of the FAFSA to knowing which schools are more generous with merit aid, college planners bring a wealth of knowledge that most families simply don’t have. They stay up to date on admissions trends, testing changes, and financial aid policies, so you don’t have to. That kind of insider know-how can save you time, money, and stress.

2. Personalized Strategy for Your Student

Every student is different. We will take the time to understand your teen’s strengths, interests, and goals, and help build a tailored college list that reflects who they are—not just where everyone else is applying. From academic fit to campus culture to affordability, your child will have a smart, well-rounded plan for success.

3. Reducing Stress for the Whole Family

Let’s face it—college planning can strain even the best parent-teen relationship. Having an experienced third party in the mix helps ease tensions. Planners keep students on track with deadlines, help with essays, and act as a coach and motivator. You can go back to being the supportive parent, not the project manager.

4. Financial Guidance that Pays Off

College is a major investment. Midwest College Planning can help you understand the true cost of each school (not just the sticker price), compare financial aid offers, and explore strategies to make college more affordable. 

5. Peace of Mind

There’s no greater comfort than knowing you’re not doing this alone. With Midwest College Planning by your side, you can feel confident that nothing is falling through the cracks. Every detail—from applications to scholarships to deadlines—is covered. You’ll sleep better at night knowing your child is on the right path.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a college planner isn’t just for the Ivy League-bound. It’s for any family who wants to approach the college process with clarity, confidence, and calm. Whether your teen is aiming for a competitive university or exploring affordable options closer to home, a college planner can help make sure they land at a school where they’ll thrive—without breaking the bank.

Have questions about how college planning works or whether it’s right for your family? We’re here to help. 

Learn more about our Free Consultation