Use our calculator to compare award letters from different schools. Determine your out-of-pocket expenses and the percentage of gift aid vs. loans.  

Use the TAB key to move between fields.

Step One:  Select Midwest colleges by clicking on the SEARCH button. Cost information will load automatically. Type in the name and costs of schools not listed in the Search.   

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College Name
Term
Tuition and Fees
Books and Supplies
Room and Board
Personal and Transportation
Total Cost


Step Two:  Use the college's award letter to complete the scholarship and grant information below. Don't include Work-Study because that money is earned as the hours are worked.

   Scholarships and Grants -- free money that is not repaid.

College Name
College-specific Scholarship
Other Scholarships
Pell Grant
SEOG
College-specific Grant
State Grant
Total Scholarships and Grants


Step Three: Add loan information from the college's award letters.

Education Loans -- must be repaid with interest

College Name
Perkins Loan
Stafford Loan/Direct Loan
PLUS Loan/Direct PLUS Loan
Other Loan(s)
Total Loans

Total Scholarships, Grants and Loans




Step Four: Out-of-pocket expenses for each college are shown below. Compare the percentage of scholarships/grants and the percentage of loans to determine the best award package.

College Name
Total Costs
Less: Scholarships, Grants and Loans
Out of Pocket Expense
% of award - Scholarships and Grants
% of award - Loans

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Step Five: Compare financial aid packages of your top colleges by asking yourself the following questions:

  • How much of the award is free money?
  • How many scholarships are renewable past my freshman year?
  • How much will I need to borrow in student loans?
  • What is my out-of-pocket expense even after I borrow student loans?
  • Can I get a part-time job on campus?
Talk to your parents and guidance counselor to help narrow your college choice even more. The financial aid package is only one factor in the selection process. Consider the college's location, student population, academic offerings and campus life as well. Use our College Comparison Calculator to help find the best college match for you.



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