The Smart Start Program is a simple, guided, three-step college planning experience that helps families identify where they are, what’s not working, and what to do about it.

I Want a Smart Start!
Get your Smart Start for just $995

Through a series of three meetings, we uncover academic, financial, and admissions-related issues, clarify goals, and deliver a customized plan that positions your student — and your wallet — for success. 

FIND YOUR FIT DIAGNOSTIC

A conversation to evaluate, assess, and identify options for the best academic, social, and financial college matches for your student. 

  • Identify academic performance and goals
  • Explore preferences for social fit
  • Clarify financial position
  • Uncover key priorities
FINANCIAL FIT AND FUNDING BLUEPRINT

An in-depth discovery session to understand and align your college goals with your financial reality — laying the foundation for smart, cost-aware decisions.

  • Define needs vs. wants
  • Set short & long-term goals
  • Map out your college path
  • Establish action steps
SMART START FUNDING SOLUTION

Based on your Blueprint, we’ll deliver a custom-crafted strategy that ensures you can afford the right college without overpaying or compromising your financial future.

  • Review your personalized strategy
  • Explore possible next steps
  • Make informed decisions
  • Move forward with clarity

Education, Experience, and Expertise

Elite Collegiate Planning has unmatched experience and expertise in the field of college planning and financial aid. Leaders of our team have been in the business of college planning for more than 20 years and serve as mentors for our younger specialists. Our education and planning team consists of Certified College Planning Specialists, College Funding Specialists, Education Consultants, Education Loan Analysts, FAFSA and CSS Profile Specialists, Admissions Impact Mentors, and more.

our specialties

  • College Planning
  • The Financial Aid System
  • College Funding
  • Student Loans
  • Financial Aid Leveraging
  • Choosing Right-Fit Schools
  • Student Aid Index (formerly EFC)
  • Financial Services
  • The Pros and Cons of 529s
  • FAFSA
  • CSS Profile
  • Myers Briggs Strong Interest Inventory with College Profile®
  • Red Money and Green Money
  • PLUS Loans
  • College Planning Mistakes to Avoid
  • Cost Efficient Borrowing 
  • How High Income Families Can Qualify for Financial Aid
  • College Cash Flow Strategies
  •  Financial Aid Awards and Appeals
  • Need-Based Aid
  • Merit-Based Aid
  • Admissions Counseling
Contact Us to Schedule Your Financial Aid Night

Education, Experience, and Expertise

Elite Collegiate Planning has unmatched experience and expertise in the field of college planning and financial aid. Leaders of our team have been in the business of college planning for more than 20 years and serve as mentors for our younger specialists. Our education and planning team consists of Certified College Planning Specialists, College Funding Specialists, Education Consultants, Education Loan Analysts, FAFSA and CSS Profile Specialists, Admissions Impact Mentors, and more.

Expertise in

  • College Planning
  • The Financial Aid System
  • College Funding
  • Student Loans
  • Financial Aid Leveraging
  • Choosing Right-Fit Schools
  • Student Aid Index (formerly EFC)
  • Financial Services
  • The Pros and Cons of 529s
  • FAFSA
  • CSS Profile
  • Myers Briggs Strong Interest Inventory with College Profile®
  • Red Money and Green Money
  • PLUS Loans
  • College Planning Mistakes to Avoid
  • Cost Efficient Borrowing 
  • How High Income Families Can Qualify for Financial Aid
  • College Cash Flow Strategies
  •  Financial Aid Awards and Appeals
  • Need-Based Aid
  • Merit-Based Aid
  • Admissions Counseling
  •  
Schedule With Us