Sophomore Twins - time is getting VERY short - reality is hitting me hard!

@TwinsDad73, Don’t beat yourself up. Being prepared to shell out $500,000+ for two simultaneous educations isn’t likely at most of our households.

I think it’s important to get to educate yourself on the different types of aids and which are offered by schools your daughters may be interested in.

First, on need-based aid: As noted, generally speaking you can get an idea of how much need-based aid you may be eligible for by running your information through a few net price calculators that you’ll find on the colleges’ web pages. (I really don’t know if NPCs are calibrated to deal with twins at the same school, though.)

Be aware that some colleges only offer need-based aid, period. So if their estimated family contribution works for you, then good, add that school to the list. If it doesn’t, then move on. Don’t expect to get more.

Second, on merit aid: Some colleges offer both need-based aid (income based) and merit aid (achievement based). For a comprehensive list of colleges that offer merit aid look at the thread at the top of this board. You should also check each college’s website for information on the requirements and restrictions of their merit awards or scholarships.