Hey, hey, are you staying healthy? I sure hope so.
I’ve been trying to do my part by slowing the spread and doubling down at home (hence all the rapid-fire posts covering COVID-19-related tips!)
I know there’s one thing you may be thinking about if you’re the parent of a sophomore or junior: the SAT. COVID-19 may have wreaked havoc on your SAT plans.
I worked for 12 years in a college admission office in the Midwest, so most students took the ACT, not the SAT. I even administered the ACT test every few months (those poor students were soo nervous!) so I was always a bit curious about the SAT.
Parents, it may be a few years since you’ve taken the SAT yourself (if you took it at all!) and want to know more about it. I’ll also cover some top tips on how to handle it during COVID-19.
What is the SAT?
What does SAT stand for, anyway? Let’s do a multiple-choice question, just like in the real SAT:
Scholastic Aptitude Test
Scholar Assessment Test
Slippery, Atrocious Trial
It’s not an acronym for anything. It’s just S-A-T.
Got a good guess? It’s D! (Did you notice that I tried tricking you? The SAT did stand for Scholastic Aptitude Test when it was created.)
You know that the SAT is a multiple-choice entrance exam administered by the College Board. You may even know that over 2.2 million students took the SAT in 2019, according to the 2019 SAT Suite of Assessments Program Results. But do you know the finer points of the SAT?
The SAT does one major thing: It assesses your child’s readiness for college. Most colleges and universities use the SAT to make admission decisions. Your child’s SAT score, in addition to high school GPA, transcripts, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, personal essays and interviews, may also be taken into consideration for admission decisions. Some schools don’t weigh SAT scores as heavily, while others do.
Of course, it’s to your student’s advantage to do well on the SAT or the ACT. Your child is more likely to be able to attend and possibly receive more financial aid from a particular school with a higher score.
The SAT is divided up into three major sections: Reading, Math, and Writing and Language. The Essay portion is optional. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll find on each test.
Reading Test
The Reading Test is 65 minutes long and features reading passages. Each reading passage requires you to answer 52 multiple-choice questions using tables, graphs, and charts. The SAT always includes:
One literature passage
A U.S. history passage or pair of passages
A passage from economics, sociology or psychology
Two science-related passages
Your child may need to find evidence, interpret data and consider implications to answer the questions on this test.
What’s on the Language and Writing Test? Easy — this is your child’s chance to be an editor for 35 minutes. He or she will take a look at sentence structure, usage and punctuation in portions of an underlined part of a passage.
There are four passages and 44-passage based questions. Your child must be able to know how to manipulate words, use punctuation and sentence clauses, as well as understand verb tense, parallel construction, subject-verb agreement, comma use and more.
The SAT Math Test covers basic algebra, problem solving, data analysis and complex equations. It’s divided up into two components — a calculator section and a no-calculator section:
The calculator section is 55 minutes and contains 38 questions.
The no-calculator section is 25 minutes and contains 20 questions. Your child isn’t permitted to use a calculator. (These portions are conceptual and your child won’t need a calculator to complete them.)
Most of the questions on the Math Test are multiple choice but 22 percent are student-produced response questions, known as grid-ins.
The SAT Essay portion is optional but some colleges require it. (It’s a good idea to do some checking around to find out whether your kiddo should take the essay portion.)
The Essay Test is 50 minutes and measures your child’s ability to read, write and analyze. The two people who score your child’s essay each award between one and four points for a maximum score of eight.
Here’s how it’s done: Your student must read a passage and explain how the writer builds an argument and how that writer persuades using evidence from the passage.
How long is the SAT?
To sum up, the SAT is 180 minutes, not including breaks. The SAT Essay Test is 50 minutes.
Reading Test
65 minutes
52 questions
Writing and Language Test
35 minutes
44 questions
Math: No calculator Math: Calculator
25 minutes 55 minutes
20 questions 38 questions
Essay
50 minutes
1 essay
History of the SAT
Okay, buckle in for a history lesson. The history of the SAT goes back all the way to the first World War, believe it or not. Robert Yerkes, a guy who knew a heck of a lot about I.Q. testing, asked the U.S. Army to let him test all recruits for intelligence using the Army Alpha.
One of Yerkes’ brilliant assistants, Carl Brigham, taught at Princeton and adapted Army Alpha as a college admissions test. It was first administered to a few thousand college applicants in 1926, just for fun. (Yeah, it was one big experiment!)
James Bryant Conant, the president of Harvard in 1933, decided to start a new scholarship program and asked an assistant dean, Henry Chauncey, to find a test to evaluate candidates for these scholarships. (Poor guy!) Chauncey met Brigham and recommended… dum da dum dum dum… The SAT!
Chauncey talked the members of the College Board into using the SAT as a uniform exam in 1938 for scholarship applicants. The second World War changed everything in 1942. All College Board admissions tests were abolished, so the SAT became the test for everyone.
When’s the SAT Offered?
This is kind of a trick question because the SAT’s schedule has changed due to COVID-19. The SAT’s normally offered during the following months each year:
August
October
November
December
March
May
June
For example, the dates for 2020-2021 are the following:
August 29, 2020
October 3, 2020
November 7, 2020
December 5, 2020
March 13, 2021
May 8, 2021
June 5, 2021
What to Do About the SAT During COVID-19
The College Board canceled the May 2, 2020, SAT and SAT Subject Test administration due to COVID-19.
Right now, the next SAT is scheduled for the first weekend of June (June 6), but that depends on how the public health situation evolves. The registration deadline for the June 6 test is May 8.
Your student’s school may have originally scheduled a School Day SAT Test, which was cancelled. The College Board is seeking multiple solutions with states and districts about School Day administrations. Learn more about the College Board’s COVID-19 response.
Normally, the SAT should be taken by at least the spring of your child’s junior year. Taking it junior year gives your student the opportunity to take the SAT a second time in the fall of senior year before college application deadlines (if necessary).
This is a great time to prepare for the SAT. Your child can take practice exams and spend time preparing during quarantine.
Should My Kiddo Take the SAT and the ACT?
I stuck this question in here because I heard it every so often as an admission counselor.
You may be tempted to encourage your child to take both the SAT and the ACT — but it’s actually not a great idea. Why?
Think about it this way. Your student will only have so much preparation time for both tests and taking both will slash that time in half. Not only that, but if you pay for tutoring, you’ll have to pay for a tutor class for both tests.
Colleges have no preference for the ACT over the SAT or vice versa, so focus on one.
Talk to Colleges
Now you know the answer to “What does SAT stand for?” and more.
You might be wondering what you’ll do if COVID-19 is still a public health concern in June. Remember, there are still several dates around the corner: August 29, October 3, November 7 and December 5.
There’s still plenty of time to test (and retest!) so don’t get stressed out about having your child take the test before college application deadlines.
Sure, it might be a bit of a squeeze to get everything done, so it’s a good idea to reach out to all of your child’s prospective colleges. Explain your concerns and hear their recommendations. (They may change their college deadlines in light of this situation, anyway. Call and find out!)
College costs don’t stop at tuition, room and board. If your student is just beginning their college journey, you may think you’ve accounted for all your expenses, but surprise costs can creep up and throw your budget off track. From one-time fees to recurring out-of-pocket expenses, students often encounter bills they didn’t see coming.
This guide helps you understand which costs to watch for and how to prepare for hidden costs of college. By the end, you’ll know how to plan for the unexpected, make smarter financial decisions and tap into the right resources to stay on track.
Why College Budgets Often Fall Short
Even when you plan carefully, some expenses can catch you off guard. College cost calculators and brochures often overlook less obvious fees, making it easy to underestimate your actual expenses.
Hidden Fees Add Up Fast
Schools may charge mandatory lab fees, tech fees, student activity fees or course-specific surcharges that aren’t clearly outlined in your bill. These can range from $25 to over $200 per class.
If your child takes a biology course with lab requirements or a graphic design class that uses professional software, you could be responsible for additional access fees. These charges usually show up after registration, making them hard to budget in advance.
Living Costs Shift From Semester to Semester
A change in your child’s meal plan or housing situation could increase your out-of-pocket expenses without warning. For example, if your student’s dorm closes over a break or their lease starts late, they might need temporary housing or dining options.
Likewise, inflation affects everyday costs like groceries, transportation and hygiene items. These often get overlooked in initial college planning conversations, even though they add up quickly.
Unexpected Medical Visits and Prescriptions
Most campus health centers offer basic services, but some visits, like emergency care, lab work or prescriptions, may require out-of-pocket payments. If your child visits an off-campus provider or requires ongoing care, you may be charged the full price or be required to meet a deductible.
Don’t assume your insurance covers everything. Review your health coverage before arriving on campus and understand the cost of care at local clinics and pharmacies.
Mental Health Services Can Be Limited
Many schools offer a limited number of free therapy sessions. But if your child needs more support, they may be referred off campus. Those appointments can cost $75 to $150 per visit or more.
According to the American College Health Association, nearly three in four students report moderate to serious psychological distress during college. It’s important to budget for mental well-being, especially during high-stress periods like midterms or finals.
Day-to-Day Costs You Might Not Expect
Once classes begin, it’s the everyday spending that often surprises students the most. These recurring costs can affect how long savings lasts.
Transportation and Travel Expenses
Whether your child commutes from off campus or travels home for breaks, you’ll likely spend more than you expect on transportation. Costs can include:
Bus or subway passes
Gas and car maintenance
Parking permits or tickets
Rideshares or rental cars during holidays
A single round-trip flight home during a school break can cost $300 or more. Booking at the last minute or during peak times only increases the cost. Consider adding travel costs to your yearly budget upfront to avoid surprises later.
Books, Supplies and Tech Gear
While used books and digital rentals can lower textbook costs, some professors require new editions or digital access codes that are only available through the publisher. These often cost $100 or more per course.
Other overlooked costs include:
Notebooks, folders and printer paper
Lab goggles, calculators and specialty materials
Laptop repairs or software upgrades
Most students can’t afford to delay tech fixes. If their laptop breaks, you’ll need to replace or repair it quickly. A good safety net for tech-related emergencies is essential.
How to Plan Ahead for the Unexpected
Rather than reacting to financial surprises, take steps to stay ready. The more flexibility you build into your plan, the more confident you’ll feel navigating college finances.
Add a Buffer to Your Budget
One of the easiest ways to stay prepared is to include a buffer — ideally $500 to $1,000 per semester — into your budget. This can cover unexpected fees, travel, or health-related needs.
If you don’t use your buffer, roll it into the next semester or move it into an emergency fund. You’ll be glad it’s there when something unplanned comes up.
Track Your Expenses Weekly
A written or digital budget is only effective if you update it consistently. Use free tools like Mint, YNAB or even a simple Google Sheet to track what you planned to spend, what you actually spent, and categories going over budget.
Tracking weekly helps you catch patterns early and adjust before things spiral. It’s a smart habit that builds financial awareness over time.
Make Income Part of Your Plan
Relying only on savings or financial aid can leave you vulnerable when new expenses arise. Adding a steady source of income — even a small one — gives you more flexibility and control during the school year.
You can also earmark part of your regular income to put toward college.
Have Your Child Look for On-Campus Job Opportunities
Campus jobs are ideal for students because they’re designed around academic schedules. Positions like working in the library, staffing the front desk in a residence hall or assisting a professor with research offers steady income without heavy time commitments. These roles also eliminate the need for commuting and can build skills that support your child’s future resume.
Begin looking for student jobs early each semester. Most schools post openings through internal portals or their career center. If your financial aid includes work-study, focus on those roles first. They typically have guaranteed hours and are reserved for students who meet need-based eligibility.
Explore Flexible Off-Campus or Remote Work
If your child doesn’t qualify for work-study or wants more flexible hours, consider off-campus roles or remote gigs. Local businesses often hire part-time help during evenings or weekends, and online platforms now make remote work more accessible.
Your child can do tutoring, freelance writing, social media management or online customer service jobs, which they can do from anywhere with an internet connection. These roles often allow them to work around their class schedule and choose their own hours. Just be sure the job doesn’t interfere with their academics — income should support their goals, not compete with them.
Use Income Strategically, not Spontaneously
It’s easy to treat income as spending money, especially when your child feels suddenly rich after getting paid. But using your paycheck wisely builds long-term security. Set aside a portion of each paycheck for emergency savings, textbooks or recurring monthly needs like groceries and transportation.
Saving just $25 a week can go a long way. Over a semester, that could cover an unexpected flight or a medical expense. Developing this habit early lays the foundation for smart financial management after graduation.
When You Need Extra Help: Funding Options that Work
Even with good planning, some costs may exceed your resources. In those cases, it’s important to know your funding options and choose the most responsible solution.
Talk to Your Financial Aid Office First
Before turning to private loans or credit cards, contact your child’s school’s financial aid office.
Many colleges offer:
Emergency grants for urgent needs
Short-term loans with zero interest
Additional work-study opportunities
These resources are designed to help students stay enrolled. You may also be eligible for a financial aid reevaluation if your family’s situation has changed since filing your FAFSA.
Personal Loans Can Offer Short-Term Support
A personal loan can help cover urgent costs like a broken laptop, unexpected travel, or emergency medical care. These loans are usually unsecured and offer fixed repayment terms, so you know exactly what you owe each month.
Many lenders now offer student-specific personal loans or allow a parent co-signer to help students qualify. These are often designed to be more accessible, especially for borrowers without a long credit history. If you’re exploring easy loans to get, start with lenders that advertise student-friendly requirements and simple online applications. Just be sure to read the fine print.
Before applying, compare:
Rates
Repayment terms
Fees and penalties
Make sure the loan solves a problem, not creates a new one. Avoid borrowing for discretionary expenses like spring break trips or concert tickets.
Scholarships Aren’t Just for Incoming Freshmen
Scholarships aren’t limited to new students — many are available to current undergraduates, especially after their first year.
Departments often offer awards for students who excel in a particular major or meet specific criteria. Your child may also find scholarships through professional associations, nonprofit groups or local businesses.
Stay organized by setting a monthly reminder to search for new scholarships. Ensure your child writes strong personal statements and keep a list of accomplishments or leadership roles to reuse in applications.
Even a $500 scholarship can reduce your child’s need to borrow or cover surprise costs that pop up mid-semester.
Crowdfunding and Community Support Can Help in Emergencies
Crowdfunding isn’t a long-term fix, but it can be a lifeline in urgent situations. For students dealing with sudden medical costs, housing issues, or other emergencies, platforms like GoFundMe or university-run hardship funds can offer quick, meaningful support.
Be transparent about your needs and explain how funds will be used. Friends, family or members of your community may want to help but don’t know how unless you ask. Some schools also maintain alumni-funded emergency grants. A quiet conversation with a trusted staff member in the financial aid office could lead to unexpected support.
College can be unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean your finances have to be. A good long-term plan keeps you prepared and in control, no matter what comes your way.
Review and Update Your Budget Each Term
Your child’s needs will change from semester to semester — a new job, different class load or a move to a new apartment will affect their spending. Review your budget at the start of each term to add new expenses, adjust categories that went over last term and set new savings goals.
Make budgeting a habit, not a one-time activity. Treat it like checking your child’s grades or submitting assignments — part of the routine.
Get a Job
Summer jobs or internships are a great opportunity to grow your child’s savings. Even setting aside $20 to $30 per week adds up quickly. Use that money to:
Your future self will thank you when the next surprise hits and you’re ready.
Automate Your Savings Where You Can
Setting up automatic transfers helps you save consistently without thinking about it. Many banks and budgeting apps allow you to schedule small transfers weekly or after each paycheck. Automating even $10 per week builds discipline and removes the temptation to spend it elsewhere.
If you have multiple accounts, set aside one just for emergency savings so you’re less likely to dip into it casually.
Know Your Financial Aid Renewal Deadlines
Many students lose grants or aid simply because they miss paperwork deadlines. Make a calendar of key dates each semester — including FAFSA renewal, scholarship applications and school-specific forms.
Missing even one deadline can mean losing thousands of dollars in aid. Keep your paperwork and login credentials organized, and reach out to your child’s school’s financial aid office if you’re unsure when or how to submit.
Staying Financially Ready Starts Now
Unexpected expenses are part of the college experience, but they don’t have to derail your progress. Planning ahead, staying flexible and knowing where to turn for help can make all the difference.
You don’t need to anticipate every single cost but you can build a mindset and system that absorbs financial shocks instead of crumbling under them. Whether it’s a tech emergency, an off-campus housing challenge or a health-related expense, the key is to stay informed and act early.
If you haven’t already, now’s the time to build your buffer, review your coverage and update your budget. A small step today could prevent a big setback tomorrow.
Growing a college fund is a huge undertaking. You work hard, save every extra dollar, and you dream about the day you can send your kid off to college without worrying about how you’ll pay for it. You might even be a student trying to save up on your own.
Everything goes according to plan, you’re saving and the fund is growing. And then life throws a curveball. You lose your job, have a health emergency. Maybe you get in a car accident… Whatever the case may be, all of a sudden, the money you set aside for college now has a different job, and it has to cover other expenses. It’s absolutely heartbreaking, not to mention stressful.
But that’s life for you. Emergencies happen; nobody expects them. But just because you can’t predict them doesn’t mean you can’t be (somewhat) ready for them.
Believe it or not, there are ways of protecting that college fund, and in this article, you’ll get to explore several of them.
The Most Common Emergencies that Impact College Savings
An emergency pops out of nowhere and turns your life upside down. Among other things, it can also seriously affect your finances, even your college fund. Medical emergencies are one of the biggest reasons families are forced to dip into their savings because those bills pile up fast. Surgeries, hospital stays, even ongoing mental care, can quickly drain your bank account and money set aside for tuition.
Accidents and personal injury hit just as hard. A car crash, an injury in the workplace, even a simple fall, can mean major expenses and, in some cases, even lost income. If your family is to stay afloat, you have no other choice but to lean on the savings, regardless of what they were meant for.
Then there are emergencies that are actual disasters, like floods, wildfires, or hurricanes. They can wipe out entire communities. When something like this happens, paying for college is the last thing you’ll think about.
But even if it’s not something as dramatic as an injury, illness or a natural disaster, job loss and economic downturn are always a threat. If a parent loses a job or the family’s income drops because of a recession, college savings turn into an emergency fund that covers everyday expenses.
Life rarely goes how you’ve planned it and these kinds of emergencies show just how important it is to have a plan B.
What to Do to Protect Your College Fund in a Crisis
A little planning right now will make a huge difference if life throws something unexpected your way. Here’s how to make sure your savings stay as safe as possible.
Save Money Just for Emergencies
One of the simplest and most effective things you can do is to have a separate emergency fund that has nothing to do with your college savings. This way, when something unexpected happens, you don’t have to immediately reach for the money you’ve set aside for college because you have an alternative.
Insurance is anything but exciting, but if something goes wrong, it’s a lifesaver. With good health insurance, life insurance and disability insurance, you can cover big expenses without losing your savings.
You’ll also want to check your homeowners or renters’ insurance to make sure you’re covered for natural disasters. Paying for insurance will probably feel like a pain now, but it can save you thousands in emergencies.
Look for Help if You Need it
If your family ends up in a serious crisis, you don’t have to go through it alone. There are scholarships, emergency grants and other aid programs meant to help families who run into unexpected trouble. If you’re dealing with interviews, legal claims or insurance documentation, consider using professional transcription services to help organize it all. Trust the human experts at Ditto Transcripts to turn your audio or video into clear, usable text.
If your family emergency stems from environmental disasters, like water contamination, exposure to dangerous chemicals or pollution from a natural disaster, it’s more than possible to seek compensation for water contamination damages, pollution consequences, etc.
Choose Savings Plans that Give You Flexibility
Not all savings plans are the same. Some of them allow you to take out money for certain kinds of emergency withdrawals, but make sure to check the rules about qualified and nonqualified expenses. If you take money for non-qualified reasons, you’ll get a penalty, but in some cases, those penalties are small compared to the financial relief you need.
How to Rebuild Your College Fund After an Emergency
Once you dip into your college fund because you had an emergency, it’s easy to start feeling defeated. Actually, it’s hard to feel anything but that. It’s frustrating and scary because you’ve worked so hard to save. But the truth is, you’re not starting from scratch, even if you had to spend all the money you had. You’re starting from experience, which means you can rebuild, possibly better than before.
First, take a breath and figure out where things stand. Sit down and really look at the numbers — don’t guess. How much did you take? What’s left? What’s your current monthly budget? It’s perfectly fine if the answer is “not much.” Don’t feel bad about where you are, just understand it so you know what to do next. When you have a clear picture, think about how much you want to save.
Before, you might have been aiming for four years of tuition, but maybe now you can start with two and build from there. Or maybe you want to cover books, housing or just the first year. Whatever the case, be realistic and flexible.
It’s important to think about your priorities when you’re trying to rebuild a savings fund, especially after you’ve taken a financial hit. Of course, your emergency needs need to be taken care of, like rent, food, and medical bills. This comes first. But once you’re back on your feet, start putting money back into that college fund. Don’t wait until things are perfect; every small step counts. Even $10 a week will add up over time. Automatic savings are a helpful trick here. You can link your debit card to a round-up app that sends the change from every purchase straight to your savings. Or you can set a recurring transfer for payday, even if it’s tiny. With automation, you can save without thinking about it.
If you’re in a position to earn a little more, you might also want to consider a side hustle or a part-time job. Babysitting, tutoring, food delivery, freelancing… Anything you can squeeze into your schedule without burning out. If you’re a student, some campuses offer work-study programs that allow you to earn money while still focusing on school.
It also might be time to reevaluate your college plan. It doesn’t mean you should give up, it means you need to be strategic. Community college for the first two years can save you thousands.
Choosing an in-state school instead of an out-of-state institution can slash your tuition in half. Living at home instead of on campus: Another huge savings. When it comes to college, there’s no single solution that will work for everyone, and adjusting your plan doesn’t make it any less valuable.
In fact, it could make the entire experience much more manageable and less stressful for everyone involved.
Ways to Build a Resilient Financial Base
There are many things in your life you have no influence over, but your finances shouldn’t be unpredictable. The best way to protect your college fund (and mental health) is to build a good financial foundation that can take whatever life throws at it.
And no, this doesn’t mean you need to be rich or be a master investor. You just have to have a few simple habits and systems in place that make your finances stronger over time.
Here are a few ways that can create this kind of stability.
Step 1: Diversify Your Savings Bucket
When people talk about saving, they usually think of just one account. But if you put all your money in one place, it’s risky. Diversifying your savings means you spread it across different types of accounts, where each has a different purpose and benefit.
For example, a 529 college savings plan offers tax advantages specifically for education expenses, while a high-yield savings account gives you better interest on your emergency fund. If you’re saving for retirement, a Roth IRA is a great option because it grows tax-free. Having these different savings “buckets” helps protect your money and gives you more flexibility when something unexpected happens.
Build Multiple Income Streams
When you have just one paycheck to rely on, it’s like walking on a tightrope. If you suddenly lose that income, everything else gets shaky. This is why having more than one income stream is so smart. You don’t have to turn into a full-time entrepreneur overnight, but you can get a part-time job, do some freelancing, sell handmade items online or even rent out a room. All this can give you a nice financial cushion.
If things go sideways, you’re not stressing out so much because you know you have options. Plus, these smaller sources of income will help you save more steadily for college or bounce back faster after an emergency.
Practice Budgeting and Tracking Expenses
Budgeting sounds so boring, right? But honestly, it’s one of the most powerful things you can do to stay in control of your money. A budget lets you see where your money is going and it gives you the power to make tweaks before things go off track. There are tons of free apps that make budgeting super easy and some of them even link to your bank account to automatically categorize everything you spend. Of course, you can also just use a notebook.
Whatever you decide to use, the important part is consistency. Check in weekly to catch issues early, or even monthly. If you do this, you’ll be able to stay focused on your goals and you’ll be more confident about your financial choices.
Teach Kids and Teens Early About Money
Money should never be a taboo topic, so teach your kids about finances. It will make a difference in how they handle money when they’re older. Even young kids can learn the basics of saving, spending and giving.
Teens can take this a step further. You can help them research costs related to college or come up with a savings goal for something they want. If they have a part-time job, talk about how they might set aside a small portion of it for their education. The point isn’t to pressure them, it’s to empower them.
When they understand the value of money, they’re more likely to appreciate the work behind it and make better decisions in the future.
Avoid Risky Investments for College Funds
It’s always tempting to try and grow your money quickly. But if you invest your college savings in risky things like individual stocks, crypto, or the latest “get rich quick” scheme, there’s a chance you’ll cause yourself a lot of damage.
When it comes to saving for college, slow and steady is the way to go, and don’t let anyone tell you differently. This money usually has a shorter timeline than something like retirement, so you don’t have as much time to recover from a big loss. Instead, it’s better to stick with safer, more reliable options like low-risk mutual funds, savings accounts or 529 plans.
You Have Options During Emergencies
Thinking about worst-case scenarios is never fun, but the truth is, life happens. If you plan for it, at least you have a safety net and you’re not risking your education.
Keep in mind, though, that everything is going to be okay even if you get knocked down. College is not a straight line, and life is… Well, even less of a straight line. It’s kind of like a twisty one with potholes in it, but just keep going.
Your teen just announced the big decision: they want to attend a college with a jaw-dropping price tag.
And you? You’ve run the numbers, and they don’t add up.
This is one of the most emotionally complex crossroads in the college search journey — when their dream school clashes with your financial reality. As a parent, you’re proud of their ambition. But you’re also allowed to be practical. And yes, you can say no.
This article is your guide for navigating that moment with empathy, strategy and honesty.
The Moment You Hear the College Price Tag
You might remember the day. You were all sitting around the kitchen table, flipping through brochures or checking out dorms online. And then it happened: they named the school they fell in love with.
You nodded. You smiled. And then, when you saw the tuition: Your heart skipped a beat.
Maybe it’s $65,000 per year. Maybe it’s even more. And that’s before books, flights, housing and life.
Your instinct might be to panic. But don’t. This isn’t the end of the road — it’s just a curve.
And naturally, the next thought that follows is: how are we going to pay for all of this? While some families consider part-time jobs or work-study options for their teens. The reality is that juggling academics, extracurriculars, and a job isn’t easy. The question of whether it’s okay to pay for essay support comes up responsibly. Time gets tight — especially when papers, assignments, and deadlines start piling up. In such cases, some students choose to pay for research paper writing as a practical solution to manage their workload. Paying for research paper writing isn’t about avoiding effort — it’s about making strategic choices under pressure. It’s one way students try to stay afloat when there just aren’t enough hours in the day.
And let’s be honest: sometimes doing everything alone isn’t a sign of strength — it’s a fast track to burnout. Learning when to ask for help, delegate, or use available resources is part of growing into a capable adult. That’s adapting. And it frees up space to focus on what matters most: learning, not just surviving.
Don’t Dismiss the Dream Right Away
The worst thing you can do at that moment is shut it down too quickly.
Why? Because this isn’t just about numbers to your teen. It’s about identity, excitement, pride, and vision.
Take a breath and listen to why they want to go there. What is it about this school that stands out? The programs? The campus culture? Location? A specific professor or internship connection?
Sometimes the reason is clear and justifiable. Other times, it’s based on prestige, social media hype, or the name on a sweatshirt.
By understanding their “why,” you’re setting up a better conversation about the “how.”
Break Down the Full Cost (Not Just Tuition)
Many families get blindsided by the sticker price of college. But it’s essential to break it into parts — and compare schools using net price, not just listed tuition.
Net price = tuition + fees + housing + other costs – grants and scholarships.
Most colleges have a “net price calculator” on their website. Use it. Plug in your financial information, and see what the actual out-of-pocket cost might be.
You may find that an expensive school offers generous aid. Or you may confirm that it truly is out of reach.
Either way, you’ll have real numbers to work with — and those numbers make it easier to guide the decision.
Frame it as a Family Decision
College isn’t a consumer purchase. It’s a long-term partnership between your teen and your family.
So make that clear: this decision impacts all of you — not just them.
Here’s one way to frame the conversation:
“We’re proud of the work you’ve put in. Now we need to figure out what makes sense for all of us financially. We’re not saying no — we’re saying let’s look at every option seriously.”
This approach reduces defensiveness. It keeps the door open for compromise. And it teaches your teen one of life’s biggest lessons: major decisions need a full view of the picture.
Look at Value, Not Just Price
Yes, a college might cost $70,000 a year. But what are you getting for that price?
Look at:
Graduation rates
Average debt at graduation
Starting salaries for graduates
Internship or co-op opportunities
Job placement support
Alumni network strength
Then compare those metrics to other schools, including more affordable options.
Sometimes, a smaller public university offers better hands-on training and support than a “big name” private school. But your teen won’t know that unless you show them.
This is where it helps to shift the conversation from price to value.
Talk Real Numbers About Debt
This is where things get serious—and where many teens just don’t have the full picture.
Explain how student loans work. Break down monthly payments based on projected debt.
If your teen takes on $100,000 in debt, they may be facing over $1,000 in payments each month for 10 years.
That’s not just a number — it’s rent. It’s a car payment. It’s the ability to say yes or no to jobs, cities, and opportunities.
Let them feel the weight of that debt — not as punishment, but as reality.
Talk About Emotional Readiness, Too
While the focus is often on finances, it’s worth having a quiet, honest conversation about emotional readiness as well.
College is not just an academic step — it’s a lifestyle shift. Your teen will be living independently, managing their time, navigating peer pressures, and handling stress in a totally new environment.
Ask:
Do you feel confident managing your own time and responsibilities?
Are you choosing this school because it truly fits your goals — or because it looks good on paper?
What kind of support system will you have there?
Sometimes, a smaller, more affordable school might offer more hands-on mentoring, stronger community, or more balance.
Encourage Campus Visits (Even to Less Expensive Options)
Let them walk the campus. Talk to current students. Sit in on a class.
Visiting more schools can reset the emotional narrative. Your teen might find a new favorite — one that feels just as exciting without the overwhelming cost. And sometimes, it’s not just about what the brochures say — it’s the feeling of being there. The energy, the people, the way they imagine themselves walking to class or grabbing coffee near the library. You can’t get that from rankings or Instagram posts. A school that seemed “too ordinary” on paper might feel just right in person. And those small surprises often turn into the best decisions.
Explore Alternative Paths
If your teen is still drawn to one school, consider creative ways to make it work — without risking your family’s future.
Ideas to explore:
Start at a local or community college and transfer in later.
Take a gap year and reapply with stronger scholarship positioning.
Attend a more affordable school and pursue special programs like study abroad or dual degrees later.
These aren’t backup plans. They’re smart, strategic alternatives.
What If They Still Push Back?
They might feel defeated. They might blame you.
That’s okay.
Let them express their frustration, but remain firm in your boundary. You’re not punishing them. You’re protecting them.
Say:
“This isn’t the outcome you wanted, and I understand that. But I hope one day you’ll look back and see that we made this choice for your future.”
Use Real Outcomes as Proof
Instead of debating emotions, turn to data.
Use College Scorecard to compare outcomes. Such as salary after graduation, loan default rates, job placement. Sometimes the less expensive school leads to better long-term outcomes. It’s one thing to fall in love with a campus — it’s another to understand what life looks like after graduation. Where do graduates end up? Are they working in their field? Are they earning enough to manage their loans and live independently? These are the kinds of answers that make the financial conversation less emotional and more realistic. You’re not shutting down their dream — you’re helping shape it into something sustainable.
Don’t Forget Hidden Costs
Even with scholarships, hidden costs add up fast:
Flights home during breaks
Food off-campus
Health insurance fees
Laptop or software requirements
Student activity fees
Summer housing if they stay for internships
What seems “just barely manageable” may actually be a stretch.
Help Them See the Bigger Timeline
Ask: Where do you want to be at 25? At 30?
Do you want a flexible career path? The ability to travel? A down payment on a home?
That future gets a lot easier when they’re not carrying six-figure debt. College feels like everything right now — but it’s really just one chapter. They will be freer tomorrow if they take a chance on a new job, move to a new city, or say yes to an unpaid internship that opens doors. A school that fits financially gives them room to grow without feeling trapped. Remind them: success isn’t just about getting in somewhere — it’s about what’s possible once they get out.
Involve a Trusted Third Party
Sometimes hearing it from you feels personal. But hearing it from a counselor, financial advisor, or even a family friend can help them see things more objectively.
Create a Comparison Table Together
Put all colleges side by side. Compare:
Total cost
Financial aid offered
Scholarships
Average starting salary
Job placement support
Campus vibe
Let the facts speak for themselves.
Normalize Choosing a School That Fits Your Budget
Plenty of successful people went to public schools or started at community colleges. A smart decision now can set the stage for long-term freedom.
Build Excitement for Other Schools
Don’t let your “no” be the end of the excitement.
Redirect that energy:
“Let’s find a school that you love and that won’t leave you — or us — buried in stress.”
Look at programs. Clubs. Internships. Study abroad. Help them see what’s possible — not what they’re losing.
Give Them a Role in the Financial Planning
Let your teen fill out the FAFSA. Let them help look for scholarships. Have them create a basic monthly budget for college expenses.
When they take ownership of the financial side, they better understand the stakes.
Watch Out for Parent Loans
Many families rely on these loans, but they come with risks. Unlike federal loans for students, these are fully on you — the parent. High interest, few protections.
Think long-term. What does repayment look like? How does it affect your retirement plan?
If it feels like a burden, it probably is.
Start the Conversation Early
Don’t wait until acceptance letters arrive.
Start talking in junior year. Set a clear range of what’s affordable. Research schools together. Be upfront.
Avoid the heartbreak of “getting in” only to realize later that you can’t pay for it.
Involve Siblings (When It Makes Sense)
If there are other kids in the house, be mindful of fairness.
Maybe you have one college savings fund. Maybe you’re planning to contribute equally.
Explain this clearly so that all kids understand the bigger picture — and no one feels overlooked.
Celebrate the Smart Choice
Finally, when the decision is made, celebrate it.
Highlight the opportunities. Buy the hoodie. Schedule the visit day. Get excited together.
Your teen needs to feel that this choice is not second-best — it’s strong, strategic, and full of potential.
Saying No Is a Step Toward Something Better
Saying no to an expensive college is hard. But it doesn’t mean giving up on your teen’s dreams.
It means helping them find a way to reach those dreams without sinking under debt or stress.
It’s an act of love, not limitation.
When you say no thoughtfully, firmly, and with care — you’re not ending the conversation.
You’re starting one that matters more: how to build a smart, flexible, debt-conscious future.
And that’s a lesson your teen will thank you for — sooner than you think.
If you’re the parent of a teenager in high school, you’ve probably already heard of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). But what if you don’t want to disclose your financial information or have doubts about your eligibility?
Whatever your situation, we always suggest that even if you don’t think you’ll qualify, it’s best to still submit the FAFSA, because your institution may put institutional funds on your financial aid award based on your income.
However, we’ll describe how to pay for college without the FAFSA if you really don’t want to fill it out, so read on.
What is the FAFSA? (And Why People Might Not Use it)
The FAFSA is an online form you can fill out to learn whether you’re eligible for government aid, like Pell Grants, Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized student loans, work-study programs and more. Apart from the federal government, many colleges and states also use the FAFSA to give away their need-based financial aid.
Its importance notwithstanding, not every family is inclined to prepare and submit the FAFSA every year. Some of them are sure their reported income will exceed the eligible limits for any aid. Others opt not to share their financial information because they regard it as a very intimate subject. In addition, families who are unlawfully non-residents or have legal obstructions may be prohibited from applying.
If you do not use FAFSA for any particular reason, whether it be a free choice or otherwise, here’s how to maneuver college costs.
Step 1: Understand the true cost of college without FAFSA.
Before making any financial commitments, it’s essential to know what college cost lies under the surface, and it’s more than just tuition. The full cost of attendance (COA) also includes fees, room and board, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses.
The largest starting point for understanding the cost of college: Checking out the net price calculator on each college’s website. The net price calculator helps you to see the approximate amount of money it’ll cost you for each school. The tools give estimates of the out-of-pocket costs based on your income, assets, academic profile, and much more. The net price calculator is just an estimate, but it gives you a clearer picture of whether a college is within your financial reach. It can help you make sound decisions, help you secure further funds comfortably, so you’re not caught unawares later.
Step 2: Focus on merit-based scholarships.
If you don’t plan to file the FAFSA, you’ll want to focus on finding merit-based scholarships. These scholarships reward class performance, test scores, leadership, sports, or talent — not financial need.
Many colleges, mostly private colleges, offer large merit-based scholarships to attract the best students. For example, if your student has a high GPA, top SAT/ACT scores, or excels in the arts, sports, or community service, there’s a high chance that your child could qualify for a large scholarship.
Many colleges reveal their automatic or competitive merit awards on their financial aid pages. Most offer your child merit-based scholarships based on the application, without requiring an extra application or the FAFSA.
Don’t overlook the deadlines at each school — some institutions have early merit-based scholarship cutoffs. It’s not the end of the world if you miss a deadline (it’s not like your child has gotten expelled from college), but you’ll have to widen your search to other colleges.
Tip: Apply to schools known for giving out quality merit aid. Many colleges use these scholarships to entice students, so they are more likely to compete for your child’s attendance.
Besides merit-based awards that are granted by colleges and universities, you can also find private scholarships offered by companies, nonprofits and religious organizations, among others. The most attractive thing about these is that the majority of them do not require the FAFSA.
These scholarships can range from $500 to the whole tuition fee are awarded for academic excellence, volunteer work, leadership, your intended career path, ethnicity and more.
You can find scholarships through:
Scholarship databases
Local community organizations, such as Rotary clubs and PTA groups
Your employer or your spouse’s employer, as many offer scholarships to employees’ children
Banks and credit unions
Tips for success: Get started early, keep track of everything and rework your existing essays when possible. The more applications you fill out, the higher the chance that one of them will work out. Ask your child to treat scholarship applications as if they were a part-time job. Steadiness is the road to success!
Check out Dayna’s story:
Dayna worked with College Money Tips this past year and applied for three scholarships (two were family foundation scholarships, another was a scholarship for her dad’s job). She won a $400, $2,000 and a $1,500 scholarship — amounting to $3,900 — cha-ching! She also received merit-based scholarships and ultimately received $30,400 in private and merit-based scholarships!
Step 4: Consider tuition discounts and employer programs.
Familiarize yourself with programs sponsored by employers. Some companies provide employees with tuition reimbursement or scholarships for their kids. You can check to see if your child can get this by working part-time or check more to learn whether you can get this option through your full- or part-time job.
For example, a mom or dad who works for a national grocery chain can receive a tuition reimbursement of $1,000 to $5,000, even if they are in a part-time position.
Programs like this don’t usually require the FAFSA and can drastically decrease your bill.
Step 5: Use college savings or payment plans.
If you’ve set aside college savings using a plan, now’s the right time to utilize it. You can use a wide variety of accounts to pay for college, including ordinary savings accounts, 529 plans, children’s custodial accounts (such as a UTMA/UGMA) or investment accounts.
But what if you don’t have a tidy sum to pay? Most universities offer monthly payment plans, which is handy because you can break fees into six to 10 installments over the semester or academic year. These plans are usually interest-free, making them more affordable and cost-effective than either private student loans or credit cards.
Find out about the school’s payment plans and the fees (if any) related to them at the school’s financial office.
Pro tip: Using a savings and payment combo will help you maintain your cash flow and avoid unnecessary debt. Planning even a few months will give you the flexibility you need.
Step 6: Consider less expensive college options.
Finally, look into less expensive college options. Your child can achieve their goals without attending an expensive school.
Consider these substitutions:
Community college: Attend community college for the first two years, then transfer to a four-year school. You can save a lot of money if your child spends two years at a community college.
Tuition-free colleges: Tuition-free colleges like Berea College and College of the Ozarks can be a great alternative to filing the FAFSA, but note that you’ll still pay for room and board.
FAFSA-free colleges: Some colleges, such as Grove City College, do not give out government aid to students. These colleges can discuss how they can offer aid to your student in detail, so call the financial aid office to ask more questions.
Online programs: Accredited schools that offer online programs can save tuition and expenses on campus.
Live at home and commute: Your child can also commute to a local university if it’s close to home. You’ll only pay for tuition and save a lot of money on room and board.
These can offer great alternatives if your child is unsure about their career path or if they want to have as little debt as possible at an early stage.
Final Thoughts: Is Skipping the FAFSA Worth it?
If you’ve decided not to fill out the FAFSA, ensure you’re not missing out on free money, because most colleges and universities will suggest that you fill it out for their internal processes. Some scholarships and colleges demand completing the FAFSA, even if you happen not to meet federal grant criteria.
Nonetheless, if you are unable or unwilling to use the FAFSA, there are still numerous strategic and productive tools to assist you in dealing with college costs. Merit scholarships, tuition discounts, private aid and payment plans can enable families to afford their children’s higher education without dependence on the government. (And it’s
Paying for college without the FAFSA is possible, though you may see a disappointing aid award. It just takes more research, planning, and resourcefulness.
FAQs
Take a look at our frequently asked questions if you still have questions about paying for college without the FAFSA or how to pay for college without loans.
What salary is too high for FAFSA?
FAFSA doesn’t have a formal salary limit. A modest background doesn’t guarantee that you won’t receive any financial aid. Many families whose income exceeds $100,000 can still receive scholarships, grants or work-study programs. Furthermore, your child will likely qualify for unsubsidized loans if they file the FAFSA, but it’s important to recognize that you must repay these because they’re loans.
What is the alternative to FAFSA?
The most recommended options involve taking advantage of specialized scholarships, non-profit private scholarships, university scholarships, employer benefits and university fee installment plans. Many of these sources are accessible to the general public and do not require financial need documentation besides the fact that funds can be directly applied for from the source, may that be institution-based, company-based or organization-based.
What happens if you don’t file the FAFSA?
By not filing FAFSA, you won’t be able to obtain federal student aid, such as the Pell Grant, subsidized loans or work-study. Moreover, you might forgo state and college financial aid that relies on the information on the FAFSA form. However, some options, such as private scholarships, merit-based institutional grants and other non-federal funding opportunities are still available to you.
Day-to-Day Costs You Might Not Expect
