11th-12th Grade Coaching

Clark College Consulting Blog by Ryan Clark - expert college planning tips for families

📄 Download the Free College Planning Blueprint

Get the Free Guide

Created for busy parents who want expert college planning guidance without the high cost.

Why This Blog?”

Hi, I’m Ryan Clark. I’ve helped thousands of families reduce college costs and get their teens into schools they love. This blog is where I share what’s working now — so you can confidently navigate the process with less stress and more savings.

🎓 Explore Our Latest College Planning Tips

It’s Time to Complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 10/05/2025

Paying for college starts with the right forms. We break down the FAFSA and CSS Profile, sharing key deadlines and strategies to boost your aid eligibility and avoid costly mistakes.

FAFSACSS Profile

Your Ultimate Guide to a Flawless Common App—With Insider Tips for Southern Colleges

Ryan Clark

Published on: 10/01/2025

Expert insider tips and hidden Southern college deadlines to help your student submit a flawless Common App and unlock top scholarships.

College ApplicationsCommon App

Focus on Majors: Pre-Med | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 09/28/2025

Many assume “pre-med” means majoring in biology or chemistry, but medical schools value diverse academic backgrounds. The strongest medical school applicants are often those who choose majors they genuinely love. We share practical tips on choosing colleges and majors that help students stand out.

Majorcollege majorfocus on majorsSelecting a College Major

Wake Forest Free Tuition for NC Families | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 09/22/2025

Starting Fall 2026, Wake Forest’s NC Gateway program offers free tuition—plus living expenses for qualifying families. Compare to Duke’s initiative.

Paying For CollegeComparing Financial Aid Packagescollege search

Staying Smart in Uncertain Times | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 09/20/2025

With sweeping federal loan changes taking effect in 2026 that will cap parent borrowing at $20,000 annually, families need to completely rethink their college funding strategies and start planning now for a dramatically different financial landscape.

Financial AidFinancial Aid FormFinancial MattersComparing Financial Aid Packages