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Understanding the Student Aid Index (SAI)

Debbie Schwartz

Debbie Schwartz is a former financial services executive and founder of Road2College and the Paying For College 101 Facebook group. With an expertise in personal finance, analysis, and marketing, she's working to give families the information and tools they need to make smarter financial college decisions.

Articles by Debbie

Understanding the Student Aid Index (SAI)

February 6, 2025

The world of college financial aid has been changing fast. This is your guide to a key component: the Student…

2025-2026 FAFSA for Divorced Parents: What You Need to Know

November 15, 2024

Applying for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has become more challenging for divorced parents…

Why You Should Fill Out FAFSA Even if You Don’t Qualify for Financial Aid

August 21, 2024

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) serves more purposes than most people realize, and you may miss out…

2025-26 FAFSA Guide: How to Fill it Out and Maximize Financial Aid

August 7, 2024

This updated FAFSA guide for the 2025-26 academic year provides everything you need to complete the FAFSA and maximize your…

Top 30 Colleges With the Best Merit Scholarships

May 23, 2024

If you’re a family that won’t qualify for need-based aid, it’s time to start looking for colleges with the best…

Federal Student Loan Interest Rates 2024 – 2025

May 9, 2024

The interest rates for federal student loans for the academic year 2024-25 have seen a significant increase of over one…

How to Use a 529 Plan Strategically

May 9, 2024

Saving money in a 529 plan for college expenses puts you ahead of the game. However, you need to know…

Colleges Offering Merit Aid to 95%+ of Students Without Need

March 13, 2024

If you’re a family that won’t qualify for need-based aid, it’s time to start looking for merit scholarships. What Are…