How to Avoid the “Aid Cliff” Between Freshman and Sophomore Year
The freshman year aid offer looks great. Your student gets scholarships, grants, maybe even a work-study option—and the cost feels manageable. But then sophomore year comes around… and suddenly, the aid isn’t the same.
At Diversified College Planning, we help families avoid the dreaded “aid cliff”—a sharp drop in financial assistance after the first year. With smart planning, you can ensure your student’s cost stays affordable for all four years.
Why Aid Drops After Year One
Several factors can lead to reduced aid:
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One-time scholarships that don’t renew
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Changes in income or family size affecting need-based aid
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Colleges front-loading awards to encourage enrollment
Without proper planning, families are left scrambling after freshman year.
How to Maintain Aid Over Time
We help families:
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Understand which awards are renewable—and which aren’t
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Strategically structure assets and income to maintain need-based eligibility
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Choose schools with consistent 4-year aid commitments
The goal isn’t just getting aid—it’s keeping it.
Contact Us Today:
Worried your aid might disappear after year one? Let’s build a four-year plan that keeps you covered.
📞 Call us at 770-662-8510
📅 Schedule a free consultation: Book with Mike
Or visit our Contact Page: https://diversifiedcollegeplanning.com/contact-us/
