Does college get more expensive each year?

<p>I just wanted to know if financial aid is more generous to the incoming Freshmen class? Like, is the money a way to lure students in? Because I have been granted so much money, and I feel like it is too good to be true to get this the next year, and the year after that, and etc.</p>

<p>The cost of college will increase annually. If your school does NOT meet full need, your out of pocket expenses will likely increase as well.</p>

<p>One way to tell is to read your award letter, and enclosures, very carefully. Anything that is a one-time or freshman only award should be described as such. If it says renewable there may be terms, such as gpa requirements, disclosed. Finally, you can always call your FA office and go through your awards, line by line, and ask them if they will likely be offered again. Btw, make sure you know how much of the money you’ve been “granted” is actually grants, and not loans!</p>

<p>Thanks Thumper.</p>

<p>And yeah, Sk8rmom, I received about 40k in institutional grants along with federal ones from FAFSA just for next year.</p>

<p>The grant just says “Grant” and nothing about First Year. I’m assuming it was all need based.</p>

<p>You may have to reapply for aid each year, too. Couldn’t hurt to contact the admissions office to clarify if info about later years is not specified in your package.</p>

<p>I think you have to contact each college to know their policy. Most likely you have to apply and qualify every year, afterall your finances could change.</p>