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Before you close the books on this semester, let’s talk about a few simple, strategic money moves that can help you boost your aid eligibility — and make sure your finances are working for you, not against you. Let's get into it.
The end of the year isn’t just about holiday shopping, cozy nights, and cramming for finals — it’s also one of the most important times to think about your finances. Believe it or not, the decisions you make in these last few months can have a real impact on how much financial aid you’ll qualify for next year.
Sounds good, right? But here’s the thing — most students don’t realize that their Student Aid Index (SAI), the number colleges use to figure out how much need-based aid you can get, is influenced by how you manage your money right now. The SAI takes into account your income, savings, and even certain assets, meaning that every choice you make before December 31st — whether it’s saving, spending, or earning — can make a difference.
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Think of it like a year-end “financial check-up.” Just like you’d study before an exam, a little planning before the year wraps up can help you score higher when it comes to your financial aid package. Whether you’re a freshman just starting to understand FAFSA or a junior trying to stretch your budget, taking a few intentional steps now can save you thousands later.
So before you close the books on this semester, let’s talk about a few simple, strategic money moves that can help you boost your aid eligibility — and make sure your finances are working for you, not against you.
Your Student Aid Index (SAI) is what colleges use to measure how much you (and your family) are expected to contribute toward your education. The lower your SAI, the higher your potential financial aid.
What impacts that number? Mainly your income and assets — both yours and your parents’. That means what you do before the year ends can make a difference in how much help you get when you file the FAFSA.
Here are a few simple, strategic things you can do before December 31 to help your aid eligibility:
If you’re working part-time or have freelance gigs, remember that your income is factored into your FAFSA. Try to delay extra shifts, side hustles, or cashing in bonuses until after January if possible.
Money in your checking or savings account counts as an asset, but funds already spent on necessary expenses don’t. If you need a new laptop, textbooks, or other education-related costs — December is the time to buy them.
If you’re holding onto extra savings, using some of it to pay down small credit card balances or student-related expenses can help reduce the amount that counts against your aid eligibility.
Don’t suddenly move money into your name — like transferring funds from a parent’s account to yours. Student assets weigh more heavily in the aid formula than parent assets.
Gather your W-2s, pay stubs, and records of any tax-deductible education expenses now. Having everything ready makes your FAFSA filing faster and more accurate — which can help prevent delays or errors that could affect your aid.
Financial aid looks back at your prior-prior year income (so, your 2024 income affects your 2026–2027 FAFSA). But your asset balances are looked at as of the day you file. That’s why timing your savings, spending, and payments smartly before you apply can give you a better shot at qualifying for more aid.
You don’t have to figure all this out on your own. Inside our student portal, you can join Office Hours with a College Funding Pro who’ll help you review your specific situation and create a personalized 4-year funding plan.
🎓 Join Office Hours today — let’s make sure you get every dollar of aid you deserve.
Yes — student-owned assets are counted more heavily than parent assets, so even small balances can make a difference.
Not necessarily. The goal isn’t to have zero savings, but to use your money wisely on things you’ll need anyway, like tuition deposits or school supplies.
Merit scholarships don’t usually affect your SAI directly, but they can reduce your need for other aid. It’s still worth applying to as many as possible.
Now! The earlier you organize your finances and documents, the smoother (and potentially more rewarding) your financial aid process will be.
🎯Step-by-step guides to mastering college success
🎯 Weekly scholarship drops to help you pay for school
🎯 1:1 chats with a college funding pro for personalized advice
🎯 All designed to help you start strong and finish even stronger.
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