#USA #New York #Financial Aid #Paying for College #Kalman A. Chany

The Princeton Review's 2026 Edition of "Paying for College"

The Princeton Review has unveiled the latest edition of its esteemed guide, "Paying for College 2026," focusing on essential financial strategies that assist families in navigating the increasingly complex college funding process.

This annual publication, authored by Kalman A. Chany alongside Geoff Martz, serves as an invaluable resource for parents and students. With rising tuition costs, the need for comprehensive financial advice has never been greater. For many families grappling with college expenses, this guide is not just useful; it is a crucial ally.

Kalman A. Chany, a prominent expert in college funding and the president of Campus Consultants Inc., emphasizes the importance of understanding the financial aid landscape. He notes that many families require financial aid, with a significant 98% of respondents in a Princeton Review survey indicating their need for assistance. Shockingly, 82% of these families described their need as “very” or “extremely” necessary.

According to the latest statistics, attending a public four-year institution can cost approximately $24,920, while private colleges soar to around $58,600 annually. Contrarily, over $190 billion was allocated to undergraduate financial aid in 2024, demonstrating that, while costs are high, there is substantial funding available.

Chany's insights reveal that understanding the financial aid process is more critical than merely having a high level of financial need. He introduced the concept that the families who often receive the most funding are those who navigate the aid process effectively. Throughout his career since 1981, he has meticulously analyzed how aid assessments and awards are determined, consistently advising families on maximizing their financial aid eligibility.

The book stands out as the premier annual guide dedicated specifically to the completion of the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the College Board's CSS Profile®, both of which are instrumental in securing adequate financial support for college.

In light of recent legislative changes, such as the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act and the FAFSA Simplification Act, which aims to modify aid application processes, Chany presents timely guidance that could significantly benefit applicants in the coming years. The previous rollout of a simplified FAFSA in late 2023 faced challenges that Chany has critiqued, emphasizing the need for clarity in financial aid processes.

The guide also delves into various essential topics, including:

• - Choosing colleges that offer generous financial aid packages.
• - Comparing different financial aid offers and appealing for more if necessary.
• - Understanding education loans and the implications of managing them effectively.

Additionally, unique chapters address specific circumstances for different family situations, including single parents, blended families, and older students seeking education.

Purchasers of this essential guide can gain ongoing support through updates on financial aid changes and insights from Chany, available at PrincetonReview.com/guidebooks. These updates keep families informed about crucial legislative changes that could affect their financial planning.

"Paying for College" not only stands as a resourceful guide but also builds on the Princeton Review's legacy, which includes over 150 titles addressing various aspects of the college admissions landscape. As families continue to contend with mounting educational costs, this publication reaffirms its position as a go-to resource for those looking to alleviate some of the financial strain associated with higher education.

For more details on this publication and to explore its extensive offerings, visit PrincetonReview.com.

As the Princeton Review continues to support millions of students in achieving their educational and career aspirations, this new edition reinforces their commitment to making college more accessible for everyone.