In the last blog entry I promised to talk about some of the new FAST features-and I will. But a trend that we have recently noticed has cropped up, and I want to address that first.

As many of you know, ISM helps train many schools on financial aid-many use the FAST system, some do not. We have observed a rise in applications from families that really should not qualify for financial aid and normally would not apply. There have always been families that apply without having demonstrable need. Many simply do it because they figure it can't hurt to ask. ("If I spend $34 dollars on an application, and you give me even $500, I make 1,430% on my investment.") Some ask because they feel that they need help, but we find out that what they really need is "how to" help with managing their money. These types of applications can be found every year and are nothing new. This year however, because of the large drop in the stock market and the foreboding economic conditions, some families are feeling less secure financially than they were even a few months ago. It is important for school to strike a balance between being sensitive to a family's insecurity and being fiscally responsible. Some families may "feel" like they need financial assistance, but not "qualify" for financial aid. There are many things that a family can cut back before school tuition. ISM strongly suggests that your school develop a strategy and communicate clearly. You will, of course, want to do everything you can to meet demonstrated need, especially in this economy. You will have to address "perceived" need on a case-by-case basis and work closely with these families to maximize enrollment.