A COVID-19 OPPORTUNITY FOR HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

Coronavirus has raised financial concerns for many. Colleges are not immune to the same concerns. With the realization that deposits are no guarantee of attendance, they worry about enrollment and may be willing to reach into their coffers to provide additional financial aid for the next freshman class.

Population decreases contributed to mounting concerns for admissions offices long before Covid-19 became commonplace terminology. Colleges are not profitable when dormitories and cafeterias are empty and the decision over whether to open college campuses or keep them closed next fall will determine the fate of many institutions of higher learning.

In the face of coronavirus and difficult decisions regarding college, many students may change their minds about attending their top choice college. Parents may worry about a possible re-infection and want to avoid air travel. This is of particular concern if the chosen college is a substantial distance from home. Is life on campus conducive to social distancing? Innumerable college-bound students wait to see. There are also concerns over cost. Is Zoom University worth the full cost of attendance? Many I have spoken to think it’s not and intend to look for a less expensive option.

If college campuses were to remain closed this fall, it is likely we would see many of them close their doors. Without sufficient attendance, some universities may not even last until the end of the spring semester. Colleges, fearing these consequences, will naturally want to open in the fall and hope to navigate our new normal. Simply because they will attempt to open does not mean they will reach their admission goals. This creates an opportunity for many seniors and their parents to appeal their financial aid awards. We can expect negotiations until move-in day.

If you are interested in making college more affordable, don’t hesitate to contact CollegeGPS for a complimentary college strategy session to discuss your financial aid appeal. Appeals, if done correctly, can save thousands.