Congrats on getting it processed! This is such a helpful thread for anyone else dealing with the same issue. It's reassuring to see that the "In Review" status really is just part of the normal wait time, even when it feels like forever. For future reference, it sounds like 3-4 weeks is pretty typical this year with all the system changes. Thanks for updating us with the good news!

So glad to see this worked out! I'm currently on week 2 of "In Review" status and this whole thread has been incredibly reassuring. It's frustrating how the FAFSA system doesn't give you any indication of what's happening behind the scenes - just that vague "In Review" message with no timeline. Reading everyone's experiences here shows that patience really is key, even though it's nerve-wracking when deadlines are approaching. Thanks for sharing your journey and the happy ending!

btw has anyome noticed the SAI calcs r totally different this yr? our expected contribution went up like 5k from last yr with basically same income??

As someone who just went through this decision process last year, I want to echo what others have said about maxing out Direct Student loans first. The math really is compelling - that 2%+ interest rate difference adds up to thousands over a 10-year repayment period. One thing I didn't see mentioned yet: if your daughter qualifies for subsidized loans (based on financial need), those are even better since the government pays the interest while she's in school. My son got $3,500 in subsidized and $2,000 unsubsidized for his freshman year. Also, regarding your refinance concerns - the Parent PLUS inquiry will likely cause a temporary small dip in your credit score, but if you're not planning to refinance for several months, that should recover. However, the ongoing monthly payment obligation will definitely factor into your debt-to-income ratio, which lenders scrutinize heavily for mortgage refinancing. We ended up doing exactly what you're considering - daughter took max student loans, we help with payments, and avoided Parent PLUS entirely. So far it's worked out well financially and she's building her credit history with on-time payments.

Thank you all so much for your insights! After reading everything, we've decided to: 1. Take ALL the subsidized loans offered (that no-interest while in school benefit is too good to pass up) 2. Take the unsubsidized federal loans as well, for the flexibility and protections 3. Look at private loans only if we still have a gap after scholarships and the federal loans 4. Consider refinancing the unsubsidized portion after graduation if he's in a stable financial position This community has been so helpful in showing me what the financial aid package doesn't make clear. Those protections are worth far more than the slightly lower interest rate!

Smart decision! You've really done your homework here and that's exactly the strategy I wish more families would follow. Just one additional tip from someone who went through this process - make sure to keep detailed records of all your loan documents and servicer contact info. Federal loan servicers sometimes change, and having your own records makes transitions much smoother. Also, when your son graduates, don't rush into refinancing right away. Give him 6-12 months to establish his career and credit history first - you'll likely get better refinancing rates and terms. Congratulations on making such a well-informed decision for your son's future!

One last tip - SAVE ALL YOUR FINANCIAL AID DOCUMENTS! Create a folder on your computer and save every email, letter, and document they send you. You'll need them for taxes, future FAFSA applications, and if there are ever any disputes about what was promised vs what was delivered. The system is a mess and you need to protect yourself with documentation.

As someone who was also completely lost my first year, I want to emphasize something really important - you don't have to accept ALL the loans they offer you! I made that mistake and borrowed way more than I actually needed. Here's what helped me understand my aid package: Look for anything labeled "grant" or "scholarship" - that's the free money you don't pay back. Everything else (Direct Subsidized Loan, Direct Unsubsidized Loan, etc.) are loans you'll need to repay. Also, consider starting at a community college for your first two years if cost is a major concern. You can knock out general education requirements for a fraction of the cost, then transfer to a four-year school. I wish someone had told me that option when I was stressing about loans! Don't let the complexity scare you away from college - just make sure you understand what you're signing up for before you sign anything.

Did anyone get the weird glitch where it shows your income as $999,999? That happened to me and I nearly had a heart attack thinking my SAI would be astronomical. Had to clear all cookies, restart my computer, and then it finally showed the correct income from my tax return.

Just a quick update for everyone - the Department of Education announced yesterday they're implementing server upgrades this weekend to address the crashes. They're recommending users avoid submitting applications between Friday 8pm and Monday 6am EST if possible. This might help those still struggling to complete their forms!