You've got to accept both. Stay on top of things. Make a list of all key deadlines. Keep a file with copies of all completed forms. Once you understand the details of your college aid package, the next step is figuring out how to pay your family's share of the bill.
Experts advise families to have a plan in place before they accept a college financial aid award.
If something happens and your family can't afford that dream college after all, you'll be out a couple hundred dollars and in for a whole bunch of last-minute stress. Families who need to borrow should be sure to exhaust all federal loan options before turning to private lenders. They have lower interest rates and they have more flexible repayment policies. Students may be eligible for subsidized or unsubsidized Stafford Loans. A subsidized Stafford loan is based on need and the federal government pays the interest on the loan while the student is in school.