Getting In: A College Coach Conversation What's Supp, Columbia, Barnard and University of Chicago; Understanding Financial Aid Acronyms
Oct 16, 2025
Mary Sue Youn, a former Barnard admissions officer, shares insights about application supplements for Barnard and Columbia. She highlights specific prompts that encourage constructive disagreement and personal reflection. Joining her, Chrissy Foran demystifies financial aid terms like FAFSA, SAI, and CSS Profile, emphasizing the importance of early filing and understanding aid options. Together, they offer valuable strategies for applicants to enhance their essays and navigate the financial aid process with confidence.
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Start FAFSA Early With FSA IDs
- Register for FSA IDs before attempting the FAFSA so you can sign electronically.
- File the FAFSA as soon as it opens (Oct 1) and meet each college's aid deadline to maximize options.
SAI Indicates Need, Not Aid
- The FAFSA's SAI (formerly EFC) estimates what a family can contribute for one year, not the aid you'll receive.
- A lower SAI signals greater need; if SAI exceeds a school's cost of attendance you likely won't get need-based aid.
Fill CSS Profile If School Requires It
- Check each college's website to see if it requires the CSS Profile in addition to the FAFSA.
- Complete the CSS Profile when required because schools use it to allocate institutional (not federal) aid.