College Xpress

This Month’s Highlights

• Early Decision vs Regular Decision• The New FAFSA• How to Answer the Hardest Question on the CSS Profile• Financial Aid Insider: Top 3 Reasons to Complete the FAFSA

Date: October 2025

Dear Parent(s),

This summer of 2025 was exceptionally hot, with June and July setting global and regional records—including the U.S. experiencing its 12th-warmest summer on record. But now the days are shorter, and the air is cooling down.

During harvest season, nature amazes and enchants us with endless shades of red, orange, and yellow.

October highlights include cultural events such as the dedication of the Statue of Liberty (October 28th) and Halloween (October 31st). It’s also a month for nature lovers—apple picking, enjoying fall foliage, and stargazing for meteor showers like the Orionids and the Draconids.

Additionally, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it marks historic milestones such as the launch of Sputnik I in 1957.

Early Decision vs Regular Decision

This month, we’ll cover:

• The pros and cons of applying Early Decision

• A look at the new FAFSA

• How to answer the toughest question on the CSS Profile

• And why submitting aid forms is a good idea—no matter your income or savings level

What Is Early Decision?

Students and parents often ask about the difference between Early Decision (ED) and Regular Decision (RD)—and it’s important to fully understand the implications.

Early Decision I (ED1) is a binding application process in which a student commits to attending a college if accepted and must withdraw all other applications. This agreement can only be broken under extreme circumstances, such as financial hardship.

Early Decision II (ED2) works the same way, but with a later deadline (typically January instead of November), giving students more time to refine their applications.

Although binding, ED is not a legal contract—it’s an honor system. If a student accepts another offer after being admitted ED, colleges can revoke the admission offer.

Pros of Early Decision

1. Higher Acceptance Rates: ED applicants are often accepted at higher rates than RD applicants.

2. Peace of Mind: Acceptance in December reduces stress, as students already know where they’ll attend.

Cons of Early Decision

1. Binding Commitment: Limits flexibility if circumstances change.

2. Financial Aid Complications: Students can’t compare aid packages before committing.

3. Rushed Decision: Early deadlines may pressure students to decide too quickly.

4. Reduced Effort Risk: Some students “coast” after acceptance—colleges can rescind offers for declining grades.

5. Fewer Options: Putting “all eggs in one basket” may lead to missed opportunities if not accepted.

Recommendations for Students Considering ED

1. Research Thoroughly: Visit campuses, talk to current students, and confirm it’s the true first choice.

2. Consult a College Counselor: Professional insight can help balance enthusiasm with realism.

3. Understand Financial Implications: Review the school’s ED financial aid policies before applying.

4. Have a Backup Plan: Prepare applications for Early Action, Regular Decision, or Rolling Admission options.

Bottom line: Early Decision can be a great option for students certain about their top choice—but only when fully informed about academic, financial, and personal implications.

The New FAFSA

Reliable sources indicate that this year’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will launch on time—October 1st.

Key Changes

• The net worth of family-owned businesses with ≤100 full-time employees is exempt.

• The family’s primary residence farm is exempt.

• Family-owned fishing businesses are exempt.

These updates help small-business families qualify for more aid.(Note: The CSS Profile does not exclude these same assets.)

Tip: Wait until October 15th to file—the extra two weeks help avoid early-launch glitches.

How to Answer the “How Much to Contribute” Question on the CSS Profile

The CSS Profile (used by ~200 selective colleges) determines eligibility for institutional financial aid. Unlike the FAFSA, it asks parents:

“How much will you contribute to your student’s college expenses?”

This question is often the hardest—and it matters.

• Provide a reasonable figure based on your available funds. They only ask for the first-year contribution.

• Do not skip it. Leaving it blank triggers an alert.

• As a general rule, use 8–12% of your Adjusted Gross Income (Line 11 on Form 1040) if unsure.

• Be honest. Overstating resources can make you appear less needy and reduce aid eligibility.

If your student lives in a single-parent household, check the College Board website to see if the noncustodial parent must also complete a CSS Profile.

Special Circumstances

The CSS Profile includes a section to explain any special family circumstances (e.g., job loss, medical expenses).

If applicable:

• Provide details in the Profile.

• Follow up with a formal appeal letter if requested by the college.

Tip: Ensure all information matches the FAFSA—conflicting data can delay or reduce aid.

Financial Aid Insider: Why Everyone Should Apply for Aid

Even families who believe they won’t qualify should still complete the FAFSA and other required forms.

Top 3 Reasons

1. You Might Qualify: Rising costs and the Student Aid Index (SAI) formula may reveal eligibility you didn’t expect.

2. Colleges Want Strong Customers: Institutions often offer aid to students who can afford it—those students graduate faster and may become future donors.

3. Merit Aid Advantage: Some “borderline” students receive scholarships even without need—colleges prefer offering smaller awards to low-need applicants over larger ones to high-need applicants.

Until next time, Happy Halloween! 🎃

P.S. If you find this newsletter helpful, please share it with others like yourself!