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Nov 2, 2026
Understanding How Colleges Award Financial Aid — and What Families Need to Know
For many families, the cost of college is one of the most significant factors in the college decision-making process. Yet financial aid can be just as complicated as navigating admissions. What does a college consider when determining how much your family can afford? Why might two colleges offer dramatically different financial aid packages? And can your ability to pay actually influence whether your student is admitted?Â