In this episode of The Ol’ College Try, hosts Matt Carpenter and Peg Keough dive deep into one of the trickiest financial aid topics—how divorce, separation, and split households affect college costs and aid eligibility. From defining what “separated” actually means to explaining which parent should file the FAFSA (and what happens if you’ve remarried), Matt and Peg break down the rules, the exceptions, and the planning opportunities families often miss.
They also cover:
The difference between FAFSA-only and CSS Profile schools
What to do if your ex won’t cooperate—or can’t be reached
How colleges verify your status (spoiler: not much)
Whether you’re navigating co-parenting or just want to make sure you’re not leaving money on the table, this episode gives you the clarity (and humor) you need.
🎧 Bonus: Peg’s musical pick of the week—“Wide Open Spaces” by The Chicks—sets the perfect tone for families starting a new chapter.
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We’re kicking off the brand-new season — and our new name — Ol’ College Try! 🎓
In this episode, hosts Matt Carpenter (Co-Founder of College Aid Pro) and Peg Keough (Director of Education) break down one of the biggest questions in college admissions: Should your student apply Early Decision?
They unpack what Early Decision really means, how it impacts acceptance rates, financial aid, scholarships, and family budgets, and whether it’s actually worth it. You’ll hear real stories from families, insider tips on how colleges use Early Decision to their advantage, and practical advice on how to decide if it’s the right move for you.
Plus, meet the Futurebirds — the incredible band behind our new intro and outro music — and find out why we’re giving college planning an Ol’ College Try!
📅 New episodes drop every Thursday at 12 PM ET.
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Big changes are coming to the College! podcast — including a new name and fresh intro music — but first, Matt Carpenter sits down with financial aid expert Kevin “Murph Man” Murphy for a deep dive into how college affordability really works. From high-income families unexpectedly qualifying for need-based aid to major wins on financial aid appeals, Matt and Kevin break down real-life case studies that challenge the biggest myths about who gets financial help for college.
They explore the nuances of the FAFSA vs. CSS Profile, why divorced and business-owning families need to be strategic, and how understanding each college’s unique “business model” can unlock hidden discounts. Whether you’re earning six figures, managing multiple kids in college, or just starting your financial aid journey, this episode will help you see the system in a whole new light.
🎙️ Highlights include:
Why even $400K+ earners can qualify for need-based aid
How “appeals” (not negotiations!) can change everything
What divorced and split-household families must know
The new FAFSA rule that benefits small business owners
Tune in for insider insights that could save your family thousands on college costs — and get ready for next week’s big reveal!
🎧 Subscribe and share with families navigating college planning!Connect with Us! Website: https://collegeaidpro.com/Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://mycap.collegeaidpro.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ https://www.instagram.com/capcollegepod/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
In this episode of College! The Podcast, host Peg Keough sits down with Rose Ellen Mocombe, one of College Aid Pro’s newest experts, to dive into everything PSAT. Together, they unpack what the PSAT really is, why students take it, and how it connects to the National Merit Scholarship Program. Rose Ellen explains how scores can lead to recognition and even scholarship money, while Peg offers insights from a parent’s perspective on when and how kids should approach the test.
They also explore the differences between the PSAT and SAT, how testing fits into today’s test-optional admissions landscape, and why strategy and early planning—both academically and financially—make a difference. Whether you’re a parent of a sophomore just starting the college journey or a junior preparing for test season, this episode offers clear, compassionate guidance to help your student feel confident and prepared.
🎧 Subscribe and share with families navigating college planning!Connect with Us! Website: https://collegeaidpro.com/Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://mycap.collegeaidpro.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ https://www.instagram.com/capcollegepod/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
Don’t let costly FAFSA and CSS Profile errors hurt your financial aid eligibility. In this episode of College, the Podcast, Matt Carpenter and Peg Keough share the biggest mistakes families make on financial aid applications—from skipping the forms entirely to misreporting retirement accounts, home equity, or 529 plans. Learn why deadlines matter, how to avoid common pitfalls, and insider strategies that can save you thousands on college costs.
🎧 Subscribe and share with families navigating college planning!Connect with Us! Website: https://collegeaidpro.com/Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://mycap.collegeaidpro.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ https://www.instagram.com/capcollegepod/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
Applying for college financial aid doesn’t stop with the FAFSA. For hundreds of schools—including Ivy League institutions, selective private colleges, and top public universities—families must also complete the CSS Profile. In this episode of College! Matt Carpenter and Peg Keough break down this complex and often intimidating form.
You’ll learn:
What the CSS Profile is and how it differs from the FAFSA.
Who needs to complete it—including key rules for divorced and separated parents.
How to navigate common challenges, from non-custodial parent requirements to non-custodial waivers.
What colleges are really looking for when they dig into your tax returns and business write-offs.
Deadlines and timing strategies to avoid costly mistakes.
Tips to reduce stress, avoid self-inflicted errors, and maximize aid eligibility.
Whether you’re applying to competitive private universities or “Public Ivies” like UNC Chapel Hill and Michigan, this episode is packed with strategies to help your family put its best foot forward in the financial aid process.
🎧 Subscribe and share with families navigating college planning!Connect with Us! Website: https://collegeaidpro.com/Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://mycap.collegeaidpro.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ https://www.instagram.com/capcollegepod/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
In this FAFSA-focused episode of College, the Podcast, hosts Matt Carpenter and Peg Keough break down everything families need to know about completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. From creating your FSA ID to understanding who the “custodial parent” really is, Matt and Peg cover key details that can make or break your financial aid eligibility.
They explain how the prior-prior tax year impacts your FAFSA, what assets to include (and what not to), and strategies for divorced or separated households. You’ll also hear why it’s important to avoid common mistakes, how to plan ahead for appeals, and why submitting the FAFSA matters even if you think you won’t qualify for need-based aid.
Whether you’re a parent of a high school senior, already navigating college costs, or just starting to plan ahead, this episode is packed with insider tips to help maximize your family’s financial aid opportunities.
🎧 Subscribe and share with families navigating college planning!Connect with Us! Website: https://collegeaidpro.com/Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://mycap.collegeaidpro.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ https://www.instagram.com/capcollegepod/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
In this episode of the College! Podcast, hosts Matt Carpenter and Peg Keough kick off Financial Aid Month with a deep dive into the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). They break down what the FAFSA is, why it matters, and the biggest mistakes families make when skipping it.
You’ll learn:
Why every family should file the FAFSA, even high-income households
The difference between need-based aid and merit scholarships
How deadlines can make or break your financial aid package
Common myths about FAFSA and college admissions decisions
Tips for reducing stress and staying organized during application season
Whether you’re a parent of a high school senior or just starting to plan for college costs, this episode will help you avoid leaving thousands of dollars in aid on the table.
🎧 Subscribe and share with families navigating college planning!Connect with Us! Website: https://collegeaidpro.com/Create a FREE MyCAP Account: https://mycap.collegeaidpro.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegeaidpro/ https://www.instagram.com/capcollegepod/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/ Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
In this episode of College!, Peg Keough sits down again with Melissa M. Stephens, Associate Dean of Enrollment Management & Financial Aid and a CAP expert, to break down the new federal legislation signed July 4, 2025—nicknamed the One Big Beautiful Bill.
Melissa explains:
How loan limits for Parent PLUS and graduate students will change.
What the timeline and negotiated rulemaking process mean for families.
How part-time enrollment will affect undergraduate borrowing.
Why new accountability rules are being placed on colleges and universities.
The impact on institutional resources, FAFSA completion trends, and student financial literacy.
Whether you’re a parent, student, or counselor, this conversation provides clarity on how the bill could affect college affordability starting in 2026–2027. Peg and Melissa also share practical tips on FAFSA, financial aid deadlines, appeals, and asking the right questions during the admissions process.
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What does enrollment management really mean, and why should families care? In this insightful conversation, College Aid Pro’s Peg Keough sits down with Melissa M. Stephens, Associate Dean of Enrollment Management and Financial Aid at Connecticut State University and the newest CAP financial expert. With more than 30 years of higher education experience, Melissa shares what enrollment management looks like beyond admissions—covering recruitment, financial aid, student success, retention, and even graduation outcomes.
Families will learn:
Why understanding a school’s enrollment management strategy is key to making confident college decisions
What questions to ask on campus visits (beyond just academics and cost)
How student engagement, retention efforts, and support services reveal a school’s true priorities
Why “fit” and student connection can matter more than rankings or prestige
Whether you’re just starting the college search or narrowing down final choices, this episode will give you the tools to look past brochures and websites to see how schools really support their students.
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Website: https://collegeaidpro.com/
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In this episode of College!, host Peg Keough talks with admissions expert Melissa Mieyr about how students can write standout college application essays. They break down the Common App personal statement, supplemental essay strategies, and the importance of authenticity and storytelling. Melissa shares why vulnerability matters, how to tackle “Why Us” essays, and why “optional” essays aren’t really optional. They also discuss how (and how not) to use AI tools when applying to college. Whether you’re a parent of a high school senior or planning ahead, this episode offers practical college admissions advice and expert essay tips to help your student stand out.
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Website: https://collegeaidpro.com/
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/
Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
Key Highlights:
✅ Why starting early on college essays is essential for seniors
✅ How to find your unique story for the Common App personal statement
✅ The most common supplemental essay prompts — and how to approach them
✅ Why “optional” essays and interviews are not really optional
✅ Tips for writing authentic essays that show personality and voice
✅ The dangers of over-polishing with parents, teachers, or AI — and how to keep a student’s true voice
✅ Smart, ethical ways to use AI tools (and when to avoid them)
✅ How colleges view demonstrated interest and why “Why Us” essays matter
✅ Expert brainstorming strategies to uncover meaningful essay topics
✅ The golden rule: “Show, don’t tell” when describing leadership, character, and growth
Learn how to read and compare financial aid award letters with confidence. In this episode of College! The Podcast, Peg Keough and Megan Walter from the College Cost Transparency Initiative explain what every parent needs to know to spot hidden costs, understand true net price, and plan for all four years of college.
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-aid-pro/
Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
Connect with Megan Walter & The College Cost Transparency Initiative
Website: https://www.collegeprice.org/home
Key Highlights:
Why financial aid award letters often lack clarity — and how to spot misleading details.
The difference between direct costs, indirect costs, grants, work-study, and loans.
How the College Cost Transparency Initiative sets voluntary standards for clear award letters.
Why families should calculate a four-year net cost instead of focusing on just year one.
Practical tips for comparing offers and avoiding unnecessary student or parent debt.
In this episode of College!, Matt Carpenter sits down with Rob Franek, Editor-in-Chief at The Princeton Review and longtime voice in college admissions. They dive deep into the “50 Best Value Colleges” list, how it’s calculated, and what “value” truly means in higher education today.
Rob also shares his personal college journey as a first-gen student, offers candid insights about financial aid, explains why high sticker prices can be misleading, and makes a compelling case for why standardized tests still matter. Learn why the right school might not be the most obvious one—and how to get those shoulders down and navigate this stressful process with confidence.
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Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
Connect with Rob Franek & The Princeton Review
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-franek
Website: https://www.princetonreview.com/
Best Value Colleges List: https://www.princetonreview.com/college-rankings/best-value-colleges/
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
Rob Franek’s College Journey
Rob shares his experience as a first-generation college student, attending Drew University, and the challenges his family faced navigating the admissions and financial aid process.
Defining “Best Value” in Colleges
A deep dive into how The Princeton Review identifies Best Value Colleges, weighing academic quality, cost, financial aid, career outcomes, and student satisfaction.
Sticker Price ≠ What You Pay
Rob and Matt emphasize that many high-sticker-price colleges can be the most affordable due to generous need- and merit-based aid.
Spotlight on Lesser-Known Value Schools
The episode highlights schools like Reed College, St. Olaf, and Union College as excellent academic fits with surprising affordability.
Navigating Financial Aid Conversations
Rob shares personal stories and guidance for families to have open, early conversations about money — even when it's uncomfortable.
Merit Aid & Standardized Testing
The role SAT/ACT scores play in unlocking merit scholarships — especially for middle-income “bubble families” who may not qualify for need-based aid.
Advice for Families Starting the Process
Rob offers encouragement and practical tips to help students and parents reduce stress, cast a wide net, and define what “fit” means for them.
Discover why liberal arts colleges are ideal for students who want to “do it all.” In this episode, retired admissions expert Peter Pitts breaks down myths about small private colleges, including Greek life, research opportunities, career placement, and financial aid. Learn what type of student thrives in this unique college environment and why these schools can lead to strong career outcomes and personal growth.
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Email: support@collegeaidpro.com
Connect with Peter Pitts
Website: https://www.lifechangingcolleges.com/
New Book: Finding Your College Major
Key Highlights:
Debunking Liberal Arts College Myths: Discover how liberal arts colleges offer top programs in engineering, nursing, and business—not just humanities.
Greek Life at Small Colleges: Learn why Greek systems at liberal arts colleges often outperform those at large universities in academics and community service.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities: Explore how students at liberal arts colleges can start original research from their first year.
Strong Career Outcomes: Understand why 90–99% of liberal arts graduates secure jobs or grad school placement within six months of graduation.
Generous Financial Aid and Merit Scholarships: Find out how small liberal arts colleges provide substantial financial support to attract talented students.
Who Thrives at Liberal Arts Colleges: Identify the type of student who excels in smaller, more personalized college environments.
Campus Culture and Networking: See how faculty engagement, leadership opportunities, and alumni connections prepare students for career success.
In this episode of College!, Peg and Admissions Expert, Joe Korfmacher dive deep into the different college application options—Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision, and Rolling Admissions. Learn how each pathway impacts admissions chances and financial aid opportunities, hear real-world case studies from Joe’s 15+ years of experience, and discover key tips for parents and students on choosing the right strategy, avoiding costly mistakes, and planning financially for college. Perfect for parents of rising seniors and anyone navigating the admissions process.
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In this must-listen episode of College!, host Peg Keough sits down with CAP Admissions and Financial Aid Expert Dan Bisig to break down everything families need to know about the Common App. What is it? When should students start? What are the big changes for this year’s cycle—and how can families avoid costly mistakes?
Dan shares expert insight on timelines, supplemental essays, scholarship opportunities, recommendation letters, and the biggest Common App updates for 2025 applicants. Whether you're a rising senior or a proactive junior parent, this episode is packed with actionable guidance to help reduce stress and maximize success.
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The big, beautiful bill has passed—and it's bringing some of the biggest changes to higher education policy in years. In this episode, Matt and Peg break down what this means specifically for college-bound families.
They tackle the most important updates taking effect July 1, 2026, including:
📆 Timing: Who’s affected and when the changes kick in
💸 Pell Grant: What stayed the same and new usage rules
🚫 Parent PLUS Loan Cap: A new $65,000 lifetime limit—and why that might be a good thing
🧾 Simplified Loan Repayment: Two streamlined options, including the new “RAP” plan
🎓 529 Plan Flexibility: Expanded use for K–12 and workforce training
🏛️ College Accountability & Endowment Tax: How schools may feel the pressure to perform
Matt and Peg offer real talk and practical insights for families navigating the college planning process—plus a dose of optimism as they look ahead to a potentially more equitable and transparent system.
Don’t miss next week’s episode, where Peg sits down with CAP College Admissions Expert Dan “Lasso” Bisig to unpack the Common App before it officially goes live on August 1!
In this episode, Matt and Peg break down how colleges price, discount, and compete for students—especially post-May 1. From Syracuse’s aggressive merit offers to the broader strategy behind tuition discounting, you'll learn how to navigate financial aid, appeal offers, and avoid paying full price. Get insider tips to play—and win—the college funding game.
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Join Peg Keough and her son, Brennan Keough, as they unpack the real challenges of the college admissions journey—from building the right college list and having honest financial aid talks to navigating first-year loneliness and picking a school that fits. A must-listen for families preparing for the college process.
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In this episode of College!, Matt Carpenter and Peg Keough unpack a flurry of hot-button topics shaping the higher ed landscape.
First, they dissect the Wall Street Journal's latest report on elite colleges' response to a proposed tiered federal endowment tax, including an alternative plan from the so-called “Learn Alliance” (think Yale, Stanford, Princeton) to allocate 5% of their multibillion-dollar endowments toward student aid and teaching. Will it stick? And can it help flip the script on exclusivity in admissions?
Next, they react to Trump's controversial effort to ban international students from Harvard. They explore how international enrollment fuels the U.S. higher education system and why such rhetoric could drive top global talent away.
Finally, the duo continues their 529 college savings plan series, diving deeper into:
How 529s work (tax-free growth & qualified expense rules)
Missteps to avoid (like overfunding or risky late-stage investments)
Comparison with custodial accounts, Roth IRAs, and private 529 options
Smart savings strategies like dollar-cost averaging
Tips for families in high-tax states
Whether you're a parent planning for your child’s education, a counselor navigating FAFSA policy shifts, or just trying to stay on top of the higher ed rollercoaster, this episode has insights you can’t miss.
Don’t forget to follow and share — and stay tuned for a special guest next week!
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