Parents of college-bound teens are often intimidated by the herculean task of paying for higher education. Truth be told, most students don’t pay the entire tuition; a large percentage of the student body receives some financial aid, from both the school and federal aid programs. Nevertheless, the complexity of applying for and being accepted to college can pale in comparison to applying for financial aid, especially in today’s blended families.

Some tips for navigating the financial aid process include:

• Fill out the FAFSA — The Free Application for Federal Student Aid provides the government with information about the family’s financial picture, structure and ability to pay tuition. Filling out these forms is a chore, but can prove highly valuable to the entire process. FAFSA provides need-based direct aid, work-study and other support for higher education. It is the single most important part of the application process.

• Don’t assume anything — Many parents say they know whether their students are eligible for financial aid, or which parent will have to pay what percentage of the fees. And they don’t. Schools and federal aid programs use complex formulae to determine how aid packages are awarded, and parents are often surprised at the outcome.

• Plan ahead — If possible, discuss the process of applying for aid with parents and stepparents, well before the deadlines. While stepparents have no obligation to contribute to the tuition of a stepchild, they still may be required to disclose their income as part of a larger household picture. It is helpful to have an open conversation about this to avoid surprise.

In an ideal divorce, a couple would anticipate the eventual task of applying for financial aid and work the details into the original agreement. If possible, divorcing parents should discuss with their attorneys and mediator how the college application and tuition payment process will be handled.

If one parent refuses to contribute to college costs, a family court judge can order him or her to pay. If one parent anticipates that the other parent may not be cooperative in the financial aid application process, then it would be a good idea to consult with a knowledgeable attorney as early as possible, to avoid playing catch-up.

A skilled and compassionate family law attorney can make a big difference in your divorce case. Call the law offices of Hanan M. Isaacs, P.C., at 609-683-7400, or contact us online to schedule a near-term initial consultation in our Central Jersey location in Kingston.  We will listen to your facts, advise you on the law, and help you create a pathway to economic and social justice for your kids and you.  Call us today.  You will be glad you did.