Thats whatCertified Financial Planner Alexandra Wilsondiscovered when she accompanied her husband to his college financial aid office.
Wilson had plenty of experience working with her own clients who were dealing with student loan debt.
I was shocked at the experience we had going into the financial aid office, she said.
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Probably not as good as youd like.
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The average undergraduate took out more than$4,400 in federal student loansfor the 2018-19 school year.
That could be really dangerous.
Push hard for a sit-down appointment, Wilson said.
And if anyone tries to pressure you into just clicking through a kiosk screen at the financial aid office?
Weve compiled eight essential questions you better ask to help you avoid student loan debt.
What Does Your Ideal Student Look Like?
Whats Your Priority Deadline for the FAFSA?
The Free tool for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential if youre applying for financial aid.
The opening date each year is Oct. 1, but each college has its own deadline.
But waiting until the last minute to submit the form means youll be the last to receive consideration.
Thats how quickly the money runs out.
What Merit-Based Scholarships Can I Qualify For?
And the time to ask about scholarships is before you receive your acceptance letter, according to Lewis.
If you havent applied when youve been admitted, then Im assuming you dont need it, she said.
And dont assume you cant qualify if youre not graduating at the top of your class, Irvine advised.
[Ask] what are the SAT requirements, what are the GPA requirements?
Because maybe youre only three points off from something, and you could re-sit for the SATs.
What Additional Fees Are Associated With My Major?
Among thehidden costs of collegeyou should ask the financial aid office about is the fees associated with your major.
Otherwise, you may find your financial aid package coming up short as you progress through your college career.
What Is It Going to Cost Me to Live Here?
Am I going to have to take out more student loans?
Whats the Average Student Loan Debt for Graduates in My Major?
What If I Accept More Student Loan Money Than I Need?
You may be worried about not getting enough financial aid to pay for college.
But what if you get too much?
Theyd already accrued several thousand dollars in interest, she said.
So what should you ask the financial aid office?
How Much Will It Cost to Pursue My Interests?
Join a fraternity or sorority!
Play in the marching band!
But all those activities cost money sometimes thousands of dollars andstudent loans dont cover the expenses.
You just need to ask the financial aid office what your options are for covering the costs.
Make this your part-time job for a little bit.
Theres free money on the table youre not taking.
And theres no question about it: Finding free money is a smart move.
Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a staff writer/editor at The Penny Hoarder.
Readher bio and other work here, then catch her on Twitter @TiffanyWendeln.
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