Helping you find
Financial Fit.
I'm Jason, the FinAide Guy. I help families navigate the complex financial aid process, maximize their aid, and make informed decisions.
About the FinAide Guy
Hi, I'm Jason D. Hamilton, Sr.
With over 22 years in education, admissions, and non-profit work, I’ve led teams at institutions like Sewanee: The University of the South and Hollins University, and served as Executive Director of Arkansas Commitment, where I helped African-American students secure over $28 million in scholarships, including 13 Gates Millennium Scholars.
Sharing what I’ve learned is a passion of mine. I’ve been lucky enough to speak at workshops and conferences on everything from higher ed access to financial aid. I’ve even served as a reader consultant for the Gates Millennium Scholars Program, and now, I’m proud to be on the board of the Tennessee College Access & Success Network.
Oh, and when I’m not helping others achieve their goals, you’ll find me reminiscing about my own academic journey at Sewanee (B.A.) and The University of Tennessee – Chattanooga (Executive M.B.A.).
Empowering Futures through Financial Aid Expertise
Key milestones in my journey to provide financial aid knowledge and awareness.
Assistant Director of Admission, Coordinator of Multicultural Recruitment
Sewanee: The Univ. of the South
Began my career in higher education and learning the “in’s and out’s” of financial aid and admissions; became Director of Admission in 2005
July 2002
Executive Director
Arkansas Commitment
Helped African-American students secure over $28 million in aid, developed the idea of the FinAide app
July 2008
Assistant Vice President of Graduate and Corporate Recruiting
Lipscomb University
Centralized and oversaw recruitment and marketing efforts for over 70 programs across eight colleges
March 2018
Founder & President
FinAide App
Launched a free mobile app to help people understand and compare their financial aid award offers
September 2019
Founder & Consultant
The FinAide Guy
Launched the consulting company to help families navigate the financial aid process to find financial fit
September 2024
Benefits
Your Partner in Financial Aid Success
Navigating the financial aid process can feel overwhelming and complex, but I'm here to guide you every step of the way–ensuring you secure the support you need with confidence.
Simplify the process
Whether you are unclear about where to start or the steps in the process, I will personally guide you through every step of the way, helping to alleviate stress and confusion for your family.
Maximize your opportunities
Get expert guidance on how scholarships, grants, financial aid, loans, and savings accounts work together to maximize your financial support for education.
Understand your options
As you balance your student’s college goals with financial realities, I offer guidance on comparing financial aid and personal finances to help you make informed decisions.
Flexible Packages
Affordable College Planning
With a focus on compassion and specialized knowledge, I offer tailored financial planning services to make paying for college more manageable for every family.
Underclassmen Package
Early guidance on financial aid basics and personalized strategies to maximize future college funding.
- Financial aid literacy
- Financial aid/need assessment
- Student Aid Index (SAI) process
- Personal “planning to pay for college” strategy discussion
- Analysis of financial aid awards
- Assistance completing the FAFSA
- Financial aid appeal assistance
Senior Basic Package
Comprehensive financial aid assessment, analysis, and support for maximizing college affordability.
- Financial aid literacy
- Financial aid/need assessment
- Student Aid Index (SAI) process
- Personal "planning to pay for college" strategy discussion
- Analysis of financial aid awards
- Assistance completing the FAFSA
- Financial aid appeal assistance
Senior Premier Package
All-inclusive financial aid support, from FAFSA completion to a custom college payment strategy and award appeals.
- Financial aid literacy
- Financial aid/need assessment
- Student Aid Index (SAI) process
- Personal "planning to pay for college" strategy discussion
- Analysis of financial aid awards
- Assistance completing the FAFSA
- Financial aid appeal assistance
Individual Services
Flexible Financial Aid Support
Choose specific services to fit your college affordability needs.
Real families. Real results.
I take pride in helping families secure the financial resources they need for college. Discover the experiences of those who've trusted me to make education more accessible.
Working with Jason was a game-changer for our family! His expert guidance on FAFSA filing, Parent PLUS Loans, and financial aid letters simplified a complex process. His insights into scholarships and personalized strategies were invaluable. Thanks to Jason, our college financial planning was streamlined and stress-free. Highly recommend!
I highly recommend Jason for his financial advising services. Having worked with him extensively on college access for my children, I can attest to his expertise, dedication, and clear communication. His ability to navigate complex financial decisions and provide guidance will be a tremendous asset to anyone seeking sound financial advice.
Mr. Hamilton's solid advice and strategies were invaluable in helping my son and me navigate the stressful scholarship process. Thanks to him, we streamlined our applications and secured most of the necessary funds just in time for the first semester. Jason is an invaluable resource and I only wish we'd met him sooner.
Jason helped us navigate the maze that is the college process, and was instrumental in putting the pieces together in a way that brought clarity to the costs of college. He also gave us helpful information on deadlines and the Common App. We'll definitely utilize his expertise again as this is the first of our four children going through this process.
Learn More
Ready to get started? Let's connect!
Reach out to learn more about my financial aid support packages, and expert guidance.
Location:
Woodbridge, Virginia
Contact:
I'm here to help!
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