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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Read Offers Closely And Complete Loan Steps
- Review financial aid offers for key items: Cost of Attendance, work-study, grants, and loan types.
- If loans appear, complete the Master Promissory Note and monitor Satisfactory Academic Progress to keep aid.
Plan Repayment & Track Loans On NSLDS
- After graduation, explore Public Service Loan Forgiveness and the new RAP income-driven plan for borrowers.
- Use NSLDS to view your federal loan and grant history with your FAFSA login.
Barnard Seeks Civil, Reflective Debate
- Barnard's prompt asks you to engage a woman whose views differ from yours and imagine a constructive conversation.
- The college seeks evidence of civil debate, reflective learning, and how differences would shape your engagement at Barnard.