Lynn O'Shaughnessy

Columnist: College Planning

Lynn O'Shaughnessy is a college consultant, author and speaker. She writes three college blogs for CBSMoneyWatch, U.S. News & World Report and TheCollegeSolutionBlog.com

Articles by Lynn O'Shaughnessy
Unlocking College Data 1
What good are the loads of data about colleges, if families can’t access it? Here are four websites that are opening the vault.
Curtailing the Costs of College
By knowing the basics about late-stage college planning, you can promote deeper connections with your clients and prospects.
Getting the Most Bang for Your Tuition Bucks
Many students and parents don’t have the resources to benchmark colleges against one another, but a new college scorecard is a step in the right direction.
Majoring in Employment 1
One of the top reasons students attend college is to get a good job. But just how much will schools help in the job search?
The Ticking Time Bomb
One misstep on a financial aid form could end up costing your clients thousands in financial aid money.
College Admissions Fever
The college admissions process can drive teens and their parents crazy this time of year. Here are some statistics to get clients of college-bound kids to simmer down.
Value Investing for College
Several schools recently dubbed the best value by Kiplinger’s also charge the highest net prices in the nation. Shame.
College at a Discount
Next year, a Minnesota-based university will cut its tuition by 33 percent for all its students. Others will likely follow.
College Rankings Are Not Accurate
This fall U.S. News & World Report released its annual college rankings. In truth, these rankings do more for the colleges and universities that fight for inclusion than they do for prospective students trying to decide where to go.
When Dream Schools Become a Nightmare
Many parents will go to great lengths to send to their children to their dream schools, but it’s not always the best financial decision.
The Home Equity Drag on Financial Aid 1
For some colleges, home equity figures heavily in financial aid calculations. For others, not at all. Your clients should know which is which before their kids apply.
How College Rankings Influence Scholarship Awards
Common practice among prestigious private research universities and liberal arts colleges is to dispense tiny merit awards to a small group of wealthy students.
Seven Ways to Borrow for College
Look for borrower protection, consider credit unions and apply for multiple loans.
Deciphering a Financial Aid Award
Financial aid letters are often confusing and misleading. You can help your clients if you know show them how to read between the lines.
The Risks of Independence
Your clients’ kids can get a lot more student aid if they qualify as “independent students.” But it’s nearly impossible to qualify.
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