The College Planning Edge

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College planning tips , strategies and various & sundry, not necessarily politically-correct thoughts on the whole college application and scholarships kit and kaboodle. Brought to you by Pearl and Andy Lockwood, best-selling authors, financial aid and admissions consultants based in Long Island New York, a/k/a one of the spazziest places on earth for college stress, weird ultra-competitive behavior by parents and teens! For more info, visit www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com

Pearl and Andy Lockwood


    • Jun 1, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 33m AVG DURATION
    • 189 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The College Planning Edge

    College Admissions Secrets: What Officers Really Look For in 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2025 34:41


    College admissions officers don't just want perfect GPAs or test scores—they want authenticity, consistency, and leadership. Here's what really matters in 2025 applications. In this episode, Pearl and Andy Lockwood unpack: ✔ The “60/40” formula behind Ivy League admissions ✔ How GPA inflation is hurting students ✔ What colleges look for beyond stats ✔ Why fake passion projects hurt more than help ✔ How parents unintentionally sabotage applications

    Major Changes to Federal Financial Aid: What Families Need to Know

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2025 35:41


    FAFSA changes, federal aid reforms, financial aid bills in Congress—families need to understand what these radical proposals mean for college affordability and student loan eligibility. In this episode of College Coffee Talk, college advisors Pearl and Andy Lockwood explain what's being proposed in Washington—and why it could completely shift how families plan and pay for college.

    Double Deposits in College Admissions: Smart Strategy or Huge Mistake

    Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2025 30:15


    Double deposits, college decisions, admissions policies, financial aid penalties—families need to know what really happens when students commit to two colleges. Pearl and Andy Lockwood break down the legal, ethical, and financial dangers of double depositing—and why it could backfire for Class of 2025 students and families navigating college admissions. In this episode: ✔ What double depositing is and why families consider it ✔ Real consequences from colleges if they find out ✔ How it impacts financial aid, enrollment, and credibility ✔ Better decision strategies for uncertain students

    How You Can Get Off College Waitlists in 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 28:37


    Waitlisted on college application? You're not alone. We discussed how to get off the waitlist. In this exclusive clip from College Coffee Talk, college experts Pearl and Andy Lockwood break down the real numbers behind college waitlists—and what families should be doing now to improve their chances of getting in. Pearl and Andy Lockwood break down: • Who actually gets off college waitlists • What your odds really are in 2025 • How to play it smart while you wait

    Why They Got Into The Ivy League — And You Didn't

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2025 37:29


    In this exclusive clip from College Coffee Talk, college consultants Pearl and Andy Lockwood reveal the little-known patterns behind Ivy League acceptances—and the common traits of those who don't make the cut. ✅ What elite schools are really looking for ✅ Why perfect grades and test scores aren't enough ✅ The overlooked X-factors behind every YES

    Is Trump Ending the Department Of Education?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 31:42


    Is Trump about to defund the Department of Education? In this video college consultants Pearl and Andy Lockwood react to Trump's latest push to cut DOE funding—and what that means for: - PLUS loans - FAFSA processing - Student loan forgiveness - Families with college-bound kids

    2025 Financial Aid at Risk? DOE Cuts Explained

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2025 29:17


    Will financial aid survive the Department of Education's layoffs? With massive job cuts underway, families—especially the Class of 2025—could expect potential FAFSA delays, reduced support, and major funding uncertainties. In this episode, Pearl & Andy Lockwood break down: ✔ Predictions about how DOE layoffs will impact FAFSA and aid packages ✔ How families can avoid getting blindsided ✔ What to expect for student loan forgiveness programs ✔ Smart steps Class of 2025 parents should take right now Join us for College Coffee Talk every Monday at 10 AM EST on Facebook.

    FAFSA & Student Loans at RISK? The TRUTH About Education Job Cuts

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025 8:41


    3 College Planning Mistakes That Could Cost You Everything

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2025 36:04


    Most students and parents unknowingly make these 3 college planning mistakes. From financial aid blunders to admissions missteps, these errors could cost you your dream school and thousands in scholarships.

    ALL Students MUST know the TRUTH about the Diversity Essay

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2025 33:33


    Diversity essays have become a standard part of the college application process, but what do they really mean for students? In this episode, we examine how diversity essays impact admissions, what colleges actually look for, and the biggest mistakes students make when writing them. We also discuss student loan myths that could cost families thousands of dollars. Join us for College Coffee Talk every Monday at 10 AM EST on Facebook. If you enjoyed today's episode of The College Admissions Edge podcast, please give us a rating on Spotify & Apple Podcasts. #CollegePlanning #CollegePrep #CollegeAdmissions #CollegeBound #Scholarships #CollegeApplications #FinancialAid #CollegeEssays #ACTPrep #SATPrep #CollegeLife #CollegeBound2025 #Parenting #Education #College #StudentLoans #FinancialPlanning #Family #HigherEducation #Scholarships #CollegePlanning #StudentDebt #Collegeadvice #studentloans #LoanForgiveness #DebtRelief #ParentLoans

    Parents, STOP Making These Costly College List Mistakes

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2025 26:25


    Are you making these CRINGEWORTHY mistakes when picking colleges? STOP sabotaging your college admissions chances! In this episode of College Coffee Talk, we break down the biggest college list mistakes and what you MUST do instead to get accepted into your dream school. In This Episode: - The biggest college list MISTAKES students make! - How to choose the RIGHT colleges (instead of wasting time & money). - Pro tips to boost your chances of getting in! Want expert help with your college applications? Visit LockwoodCollegePrep.com today! #CollegePlanning, #CollegePrep, #CollegeAdmissions, #CollegeBound, #Scholarships, #CollegeApplications, #FinancialAid, #CollegeEssays, #ACTPrep, #SATPrep, #CollegeLife, #CollegeBound2025,#Parenting #Education #College #StudentLoans #FinancialPlanning #Family #HigherEducation #Scholarships #CollegePlanning #StudentDebt #Collegeadvice #studentloans #LoanForgiveness #DebtRelief #ParentLoans

    The Big Grovel: How to Appeal for More Financial Aid & Get the Best Offer

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2025 32:18


    Did your college lowball your financial aid offer? Don't panic—fight back! In this episode, College consultants Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss how to negotiate with colleges after they've "low balled" you. They discuss how to avoid common mistakes, and maximize your merit aid.

    AP or Honors? The Key to Boosting Your Teen's Elite and Ivy League College Chances

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 6:30


    College consultant Andy Lockwood unlocks the truth about how much AP classes matter to admissions committees at America's top colleges. #CourseSelection #AcademicExcellence" #Collegeadvisor #CollegeAdmissions, #CollegeBound, #Scholarships, #CollegeApplications, #FinancialAid, #CollegeEssays, #ACTPrep, #SATPrep, #CollegeLife, #CollegeBound2025,#Parenting #Education #College #StudentLoans #FinancialPlanning #Family #HigherEducation #Scholarships #CollegePlanning #StudentDebt #Collegeadvice #studentloans #LoanForgiveness #DebtRelief #ParentLoans

    College Advisor vs NYC Counselor: Early Decision Truth Revealed!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 24:27


    College counselor Pearl Lockwood challenges the advice of a school counselor from a tony, elite NYC private high school about applying Early Decision. Is Early Decision the right move for every student? Pearl offers a fresh perspective and unconventional strategies to help families make smarter choices in college admissions. For more unconventional college advice, download our free 'Wow Report' at LockwoodCollegePrep.com/wow. It's packed with killer extracurricular ideas guaranteed to impress admissions committees! #CollegePlanning, #CollegePrep, #CollegeAdmissions, #CollegeBound, #Scholarships, #CollegeApplications, #FinancialAid, #CollegeEssays, #ACTPrep, #SATPrep, #CollegeLife, #CollegeBound2025,#Parenting #Education #College #StudentLoans #FinancialPlanning #Family #HigherEducation #Scholarships #CollegePlanning #StudentDebt #Collegeadvice #studentloans #LoanForgiveness #DebtRelief #ParentLoans

    The Truth About the New ACT

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2025 51:01


    College advisor Andy Lockwood interviews his head tutor Marissa about the new digital ACT, and her recommendations about how to prep for it, when to take it (if ever) and what she anticipates the first round of scores will be like. See LockwoodTestPrep.com/online for more information about Lockwood Test Prep's tutoring and small group tutoring options.

    Navigating Financial Aid If You've Been Affected by the LA Wildfires

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2025 16:34


    College advisors Pearl and Andy Lockwood describe what you should say to the financial aid office if you've been affected by the LA wildfires or any natural disaster. If you have been affected by the wildfires and want our help appealing your financial aid award or with your FAFSA, we will do it at no charge. Email vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com

    College Applicant Goes 10-for-10

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2025 21:43


    Lockwood client and class of 2025 student at Syosset High School, Kate Goodman, discusses her results (thus far) working with Lockwood College Prep and what she did to achieve them. Pay close attention to what she says about her extracurricular activities and essays. See LockwoodCollegePrep.com/wow for a free guide on how to engage in "killer" extracurricular activities, or contact us at 516-8820-5464 or vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com

    Erasing $270K in Parent Loans: Proven Loan Forgiveness Strategies

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2025 37:56


    In this episode of The College Admissions Edge, we reveal how one mom wiped out $270,000 in parent loans with expert loan forgiveness strategies. Whether you're drowning in student debt or worried about the cost of college, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you navigate the loan forgiveness process. We'll discuss: • Common mistakes parents and students make with loans. • The exact steps that led to this life-changing $270K debt wipeout. • How you can take control of your student loan situation today. Looking for loan forgiveness consulting? Visit YesterdaysDebt.com. Need help planning for college? Explore LockwoodCollegePrep.com for expert guidance. Tune in now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and start your journey to financial freedom! #StudentLoans #LoanForgiveness #ParentLoans #DebtRelief #CollegeAdmissions #CollegePlanning

    Admissions Exposed: The Scandal Rocking Georgetown and the Ivy League

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2024 9:50


    Are elite colleges prioritizing wealth over merit? In this episode, we dive into The New York Times' bombshell report accusing Georgetown University and Ivy League schools of favoring wealthy applicants in their admissions processes. Join Andy as he breaks down the controversy, explores its implications for students and families, and shares insights into what this means for the future of college admissions. Tune in for a compelling discussion on equity, privilege, and education reform. #AdmissionsScandal #Georgetown #CollegeAdmissions #HigherEducation #Podcast

    What to do if you're deferred

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2024 37:47


    College advisor Andy Lockwood walks you through how to improve odds of admission to a college that deferred you. Originality an online workshop (see LockwoodCollegePrep.com/deferred) on December 5, 2024, topics included: What does “deferred” mean? Why do students get deferred? What happens if you were deferred by your ED college? What should you do if deferred (and you still want to go to that college?) The LOCI - Letter of Continued Interest Updates to that college Extra letters of recommendation (be careful) Does it matter if you don't get into your dream college? Download a copy of the workshop notes and an outline for your Letter of Continued Interest here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Fnd3zwWyj4RB9F4sd_DD4uqMuOlPD5Dp/view?usp=sharing

    Master Application Deadlines: Proven Tips to Stay Organized

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2024 8:36


    In today's video: Learn how to manage application deadlines and stay organized with proven tips for college success. Whether you're juggling essays, scholarship applications, interviews, or extracurricular commitments, this guide is packed with practical strategies to help you stay on track. Discover how to prioritize tasks, beat deadlines, and create an effective schedule to reduce stress and achieve your goals. Perfect for students and parents navigating the competitive college admissions process, these tips will help you stand out and maximize your chances of success. Don't let deadlines overwhelm you—get the tools and techniques to stay ahead and succeed in your academic journey. Watch now and start your path to success. Want more help from Andy on the college process? Visit Lockwoodcollegeprep.com for more information. #ApplicationDeadlines #StayOrganized #TimeManagementTips #DeadlineHacks #CollegeSuccess #BeatDeadlines #StayOnTrack #OrganizedStudent #CollegeApplications #deadlinemanagement #HowToStayOrganized #StudentMotivation #BackToSchoolTips #CollegeBound #StudentPlanner #CollegeBoundJourney #StudyMotivation #StayFocused #EducationGoals #lifehacksforstudents #LifeHacks #HowToTips #PersonalDevelopment #ProductivityHacks #SuccessMindset #SelfImprovement #MotivationalTips #GoalSetting #OrganizationHacks #SuccessTips

    Andy's Proven Formula for Acing College Interviews

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2024 9:21


    College interviews can make or break your application, and preparation is key. In this video, college expert Andy shares essential college interview tips, proven strategies for students, and answers common questions about how to stand out in college interviews. Learn how to make a lasting impression, what to say, and how to approach even the toughest interview questions. Whether you're a high school senior or a junior getting ready for your college applications, this guide will help you feel confident and prepared. Watch now for the ultimate college interview prep advice!" For more information visit Lockwoodcollegeprep.com Keywords: #CollegeLife #CollegeBound #CollegeStudent #CollegePrep #CollegeAdmissions #CollegeInterview #StudyTips #HighSchoolSenior #Education #studentlife #CollegeAdvice #CollegeSuccess #CollegeApplication #CollegeEssays #CollegeTips #CollegeBound2025 #CollegeReady #CollegeGoals #CollegeJourney #CollegeExperience

    Is Applying Early REALLY the Key to Getting Accepted?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2024 29:57


    In today's episode, we reveal the insider insights you won't get from your guidance counselor on how early applications can increase your admission chances and give you an edge. Wondering if applying Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) really boosts your odds of getting into your dream college? We'll dive deep into the differences between Early Decision and Early Action, why applying early matters, and how these strategic moves impact college acceptance rates. Whether it's an Ivy League school, state university, or a competitive liberal arts college—you'll learn why the timing of your application can play a big role in your admission outcome. We break down the pros, cons, and smart strategies for deciding between ED, EA, or even Restricted Early Action. Don't miss out on these powerful insights that could help you land that acceptance letter! ABOUT LOCKWOOD COLLEGE PREP ================================== Award-winning college consultants Andy and Pearl Lockwood are leading experts at getting students into their dream school, college or university, at discount tuition prices. That includes advice and occasionally politically-incorrect musings on college applications & admissions, scholarships, merit scholarships, merit aid, FAFSA, CSS PROFILE, Ivy League, the business of college, and well, you get the idea. Andy helps college applicants get The EDGE over their tens of thousands of competitors, coaches college-bound teens in choosing majors & careers, planning into a college list, then strategizing how to maximize chances of admission. He also negotiates with colleges for more money. He's the author of "How to Negotiate Your Crappy Financial Aid and Merit Aid Offer." Pearl handles the entire process of filing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and other reaaaally long boring financial aid forms, and responds to incessant, annoying requests from college financial aid offices.

    Do Letters of Recommendation Matter?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2024 7:27


    In this week's FAQ Us Friday, we go beyond the basic advice to show you how letters of recommendation can be a game-changer in your college application. Learn why these letters aren't just a formality—they're a powerful way to set yourself apart from other applicants. We'll uncover how admissions committees actually use recommendation letters to gauge your unique strengths, character, and potential, and we'll share strategies to ensure your letters truly shine. Unlike the typical guidance counselor tips, this video dives deep into what makes a recommendation letter stand out, who to ask, and how to guide your recommenders to highlight the qualities that will impress admissions officers. If you want your application to have a serious advantage in the competitive world of college admissions, these insights are essential!

    How to prepare for the SAT and ACT: best study methods for high scores

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 9:27


    In today's episode, we dive into the top SAT and ACT prep strategies that can help you reach high scores and stand out in college applications—tips you won't get from your average guidance counselor! From time-tested study techniques to effective test-taking strategies and the best practice resources, we cover everything you need to know to prep like a pro. Discover time management tips, learn how to make the most of practice tests, and avoid common mistakes that can cost you points on test day. Whether you're aiming to boost your SAT score, improve your ACT performance, or ace both, this video is packed with valuable advice that'll help you reach your goals with confidence!

    What are the best strategies for researching and selecting colleges?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2024 9:37


    In this episode, we dive into the best strategies for researching and selecting colleges—the kind of advice you won't hear from your guidance counselor! Learn how to create a college list, use college search tools, and explore colleges based on your academic goals, financial needs, and campus culture preferences. We'll cover everything from college rankings and admissions requirements to evaluating schools based on scholarships and career opportunities. Whether you're considering Ivy League schools, public universities, or smaller liberal arts colleges, you'll get insider tips on how to find the right fit for you. This is the essential college selection guide for making informed decisions without the usual guidance counselor advice.

    Does applying early decision hurt your financial aid?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 18, 2024 34:19


    In today's episode, college advisors Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss whether applying through Early Decision, Early Action, Restricted Early Action, or other early application types affects your chances of getting financial aid and scholarships. Learn how each application method could impact your financial aid package, what to expect from the college financial aid process, and the pros and cons of applying early. If you're wondering whether applying Early Decision could limit your access to financial aid or reduce your eligibility for merit-based scholarships, this episode will provide the guidance you need to make the best decision for your college applications. If you want to talk to Andy visit Lockwoodcollegeprep.com

    How can students stand out in their personal statement?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2024 11:26


    Wondering how to stand out in your personal statement for college applications? This video will show you exactly what it takes to write a strong personal statement that catches the attention of admissions officers. We'll dive into key strategies for making your college personal statement shine, including how to emphasize your unique qualities, tell your story effectively, and align with college admissions criteria. Learn how to make your personal statement stand outfrom the competition with expert tips and writing techniques. If you're aiming to improve your college application, don't miss this guide on writing a powerful and compelling personal statement for college that truly sets you apart!

    How early should students start preparing for college applications?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2024 8:24


    Not sure when to start preparing for college? In this video, we'll guide you through the perfect college prep timeline to ensure you're ready for the college admissions process. Starting your college admissions preparation early can give you a huge advantage, whether you're in your freshman, sophomore, or junior year. We'll cover essential steps in high school college preparation, offer a college planning guide, and share tips on how early to start college prep for maximum success. If you're looking to boost your college readiness and secure your spot at your dream school, this video is for you. Learn the best time to start college prep and make your college journey stress-free!

    How important are standardized test scores compared to GPA?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2024 6:26


    Wondering how important standardized test scores are compared to GPA in the college admissions process? These days, it seems like almost every student has a high GPA, making it harder to stand out. A lot of the advice you hear, even from your guidance counselor, is outdated. In this video, we break down the real value of GPA vs. standardized test scores and what colleges are actually looking for now. While many schools still consider SAT or ACT scores, others are shifting their focus as more students achieve strong GPAs. We'll give you the latest insights on college admissions criteria that go beyond the old information out there, helping you understand how to strengthen your college application in today's competitive environment. Don't miss this updated guide to the role of standardized test scores and GPA in modern college admissions!

    What extracurricular activities have the biggest impact on college admissions?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 20, 2024 8:56


    Curious about what extracurricular activities have the biggest impact on college admissions? In this video, we'll reveal the top extracurriculars colleges look for—beyond the typical suggestions from guidance counselors. Often, students are advised to pursue activities that don't actually strengthen their college application as much as they think. We'll guide you through which activities have the most weight in the college admissions process, from leadership roles to community service and unique hobbies. Learn how to select and present your extracurricular activities effectively to meet college admissions criteria. Don't miss this essential guide to the best extracurricular activities for college applications that can help you stand out!

    What are some common mistakes students make on college applications?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2024 6:02


    Want to avoid the common college application mistakes that can hurt your chances of getting accepted? This guide breaks down the college application errors and mistakes students make on college applications—things your guidance counselor might not fully cover. We'll highlight the top college application mistakes and share insights on the application errors to avoid so you can submit with confidence. From missed deadlines to essay blunders, you'll learn how to avoid these pitfalls and master the dos and don'ts of college applications. Whether you're looking to understand the biggest college admissions mistakes or simply want tips to make your application stand out, this guide is packed with practical advice. Boost your chances with our expert tips and submit a strong, error-free application! Want more information?

    What are the key factors colleges look for in applicants?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2024 27:51


    Looking to understand the key factors colleges look for in applicants? This video dives deep into the college admissions requirements and college application criteria that can make or break your application. We reveal the top factors colleges look for and provide insights into what makes a strong college application. Learn essential tips on how to meet these college admissions criteria and enhance your profile to stand out. Whether you're curious about what colleges consider most important or seeking advice on how to stand out in college applications, this guide is packed with valuable information to help you succeed. Get ready to boost your chances with our expert tips on the college admission process!

    Top 10 College Essay Mistakes

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2024 79:23


    Bombshell Changes to the ACT

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2024 36:55


    Originally a webinar aired July 17, 2024... College consultant Andy Lockwood of Lockwood College Prep grills head tutor Marissa U on the latest suprise-not-surprise announcement about the ACT. See LockwoodCollegePrep.com and LockwoodTestPrep.com for webinars and more information about our college advisory and SAT and ACT prep offerings.

    A Few Financial Aid and Essay Faux Pas

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2024 32:02


    Originally broadcast on College Coffee Talk, 7-15-24 (Mondays 10am EST, Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): College consultants Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss a handful of mistakes to avoid in the financial aid and college essay writing process. More information about the Lockwoods' college advising, financial aid and scholarship consulting and SAT and ACT prep offerings is available at their website, LockwoodCollegePrep.com, or by calling 516-882-5464 or emailing vip@lockwoodcollegeprep.com. Join Pearl and Andy Lockwood every Monday, 10am EST on their program, College Coffee Talk - Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep.com

    Deep Thoughts Re: Summer Applications and Essays

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2024 32:48


    Originally broadcast on College Coffee Talk (Mondays, 10am EST, Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep) College advisors Pearl andy Andy Lockwood yak about the applications and essays, including mistakes to avoid, when to get what done, the truth about applying to college today, more. See the Lockwood's website, LockwoodCollegePrep.com for more information about their college advising, financial aid consulting, essay consulting, SAT and ACT prep and other related ways we advise families with college-bound children.

    How to Ruin a Financial Aid Appeal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2024 25:17


    From College Coffee Talk (Mondays 10am EST, Facebook.com/LockwoodCollegePrep): College advisors Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss: *How to ruin a financial aid appeal * "Secret" skills not taught in college (that should be taught) See LockwoodCollegePrep.com for more info, and subscribe/follow us on Facebook, Youtube or this podcast channel to be updated when we come out with more advice for college-bound families :)

    College Essay Mistakes, Magical Thinking

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 28:32


    Originally aired on College Coffee Talk (Mondays 10am EST Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep), college advisors Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss common application essay mistakes, and the problem with magical thinking. Plus, Pearl introduces a new segment, Don't Do That! (This one had Andy speechless. Seriously.) Info about our essays and applications bootcamp can be found at www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com/bootcamp

    More FAFSA Glitches, Child Behavior We'd Like to Change

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2024 30:09


    Originally broadcast on College Coffee Talk, June 3 (Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss even more annoying and frustrating FAFSA problems. Plus, child behavior we'd like to change.

    The Death of Test-Optional?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2024 28:53


    College Coffee Talk, April 24, 2024. (Live 10am EST, Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): Another blow to test-optional, the latest on student loan "forgiveness" developments. See LockwoodCollegePrep.com for more information on our college advisory, financial aid consulting, test prep and other programs.

    Harvard: Safety School?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2024 33:03


    4/1/24 episode of College Coffee Talk (Mondays 10am EST Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): The FAFSApocalypse - signs of relief? Harvard - Safety School? The first 100K per year college (not a sick April Fool's joke) More! For 11th graders: Get College Ready Summer Applications and Essays Bootcamp: LockwoodCollegePrep.com/bootcamp

    New: Financial Aid "Secrets" for Families Who Think They Can't Qualify

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2024 84:34


    Originally a live webinar on 3/20/24, college consultants Pearl and Andy Lockwood revealed how to comfortably afford college -- without cutting back on your lifestyle or racking up tens of thousands in high rate, high fee college debt (on your kid or you) -- by taking advantage of legal and ethical "loopholes" buried in the financial aid regulations. Topics included: How six figure and seven-figure earning families can qualify for tuition discounts of 56.2% even If their child did not crush the SAT, bribe a proctor or cure a pandemic over the summer The strange reason an expensive private college can cost LESS than a “cheaper” state university 4 Legal and Ethical Ways to "Hide" Your Money --The Wall Street Journal said it best: In financial aid, it's not how much you've saved, but WHERE 7 Deadly Traps to Avoid - Thousands of families each year needlessly "steal from themselves" by committing these costly financial aid errors The FAFSApocalpyse - The cluster-you-know-what caused by the Department of Education's efforts to "simplify" the FAFSA financial aid application and how they affect you The 529: "Friend" or "Foe?" - What's the deal with the 529 college savings plan that your financial guy or accountant recommended? And what to do about it if you have one. Self-Employed Parents - The biggest mistake business owners make. Plus little known "Tax Scholarships" buried in your business that your accountant has never bothered to advise you how to unearth Negotiation Secrets: How a mild-mannered college advisor helped his client into a “windfall” of an ​additional $30,022 from an elite college AFTER its “final,” stingy award Financial Aid Rules' "Tectonic" Changes for families with siblings in college, business owners, divorced families More - webinar attendees had a lot of questions in the chat that we attempted to answer. I bet you have some of the same ones! Enjoy! More help available at LockwoodCollegePrep.com/faw

    How to Beat the Leprechauns in the Financial Aid Office

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2024 31:23


    College Coffee Talk (originally aired 3/18/24 - Mondays 10am EST on Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): A financial aid "hack" to beat the leprechauns in the financial aid office, another college pulls the plug on test-optional, more! Resources: LockwoodTestPrep.com/online LockwoodCollegePrep.com/bootcamp

    leprechauns financial aid office
    Live Workshop at the Manhasset (NY) Library

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2024 82:29


    Recording of Andy Lockwood's presentation to an intimate group of parents (including one with a First and Third Grader) in March 2024. Lockwood fielded a variety of questions, including: *How many times should you take the PSAT? * What are "good" extracurricular activities? *How long will this presentation last (asked by a 5th grade daughter dragged to the presentation by her mom. Real cute, kid.) *When should you start working with a college advisor? (Lockwood liked this question, but his answer might surprise you.) *More For more resources, visit https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/

    Can My Kid Get Into Harvard?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2024 5:39


    From the Virtual Mailbag: Can your kid get into Harvard? Probably not. Well, maybe (although their published rate is currently in the 3% range, yikes!) We've helped a couple dozen kids get into Harvard over the years, but even we know that there's no “magic recipe.” But we do know what it takes…

    Post Mortem: The First Digital SAT

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2024 32:17


    College Coffee Talk 3-11-24 (broadcast live on Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): Feedback on the first digital SAT in the US What do do if your FAFSA info doesn't tell the whole truth Bombshell reasons for the FAFSA problems (and what to do about them) More, from the live Q&A Join Pearl and Andy Lockwood live, Mondays 10am EST on their Facebook page: Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep. More info at LockwoodCollegePrep.com

    Student Loan Relief Case Study -- Too Good to be True?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2024 29:26


    Originally broadcast on College Coffee Talk! [Mondays 10am EST, Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep This live episode covered: *Student Loan Relief Case Study (that sounds too good to be true) *The digital SAT and decline of test optional policies *College essay news *More! Resources mentioned: Student Loan Relief service: https://www.yesterdaysdebt.com/ Summer Bootcamp for class of 2025 https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/bootcamp Common Application Essay Prompts https://www.commonapp.org/blog/common-app-announces-2024-2025-common-app-essay-prompts

    The Truth About Merit Scholarships

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2024 8:11


    From the Virtual Mailbag: "How do we get merit aid?" College advisor and author Andy Lockwood reveals the ins and outs of how to get your mitts on merit aid. More info at LockwoodCollegePrep.com/faw

    How to Write a Good College Essay

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 29, 2024 4:18


    Ain't nothin' more stressful in the college process than writin' them essays! Trust me, I'm a college ad-vey-sor! Relax. Kidding. But writing essays is definitely the most stressful part of the process. I think you'll feel a lot better after you listen to this short episode (originally a live streamed video). Mentioned in this video: our summer Get College Ready College Applications and Essays Bootcamp: https://www.lockwoodcollegeprep.com/bootcamp

    The Mom Who Ripped Me

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2024 33:01


    College Coffee Talk 2/22/24: The Mom Who Ripped Me a New One, Latest News and Predictions About Test-Optional, Student Loan Forgiveness Plans Update. (Originally an episode broadcast on our Facebook page, facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep - Mondays 10am EST). More info at www.YesterdaysDebt.com and www.LockwoodCollegePrep.com

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