624 | The Rules of College Have Changed | Brian Eufinger

College admissions and financial aid strategies are shifting as the "test-optional" era fades, placing renewed importance on GPA, course rigor, and standardized test scores. Families must navigate this landscape by prioritizing financial due diligence, as smaller, tuition-driven colleges face increasing closure risks. Merit aid remains a vital tool for reducing costs, often requiring strategic planning to bridge the gap between sticker prices and actual net costs. Simultaneously, personal finance education is expanding rapidly in American high schools, with 33 states now mandating such courses to improve long-term financial literacy. Understanding these dynamics—alongside the potential for side hustles and the long-term impact of college selection—allows families to make informed decisions that ripple through decades of financial life. Expert Brian Eufinger provides these updates to help families maximize aid and avoid unnecessary debt.