We also have a Glossary of Terms available.

Why would colleges accept less than full tuition?

Historically, colleges began offering financial aid on a need-only basis. But lately, as college costs have soared, financially-squeezed families have been asked to contribute more and more, tapping hard-earned assets and taking educational loans.

Many schools now use financial aid as a method to attract quality students from middle and higher-income families. This aid is being offered as tuition reductions -- that is, aid not based strictly on financial need. Knowing this, SAGE has negotiated with member colleges to automatically present a financial reward to families who save for college.

Why are so many colleges signing up?

That's easy -- they want to attract more students, or better students, or both. And, they're eager to attract qualified students who might not be familiar with their college. Colleges know that the direct costs (professors, teaching materials, etc.) for additional students are less than the full tuition for those students. So, by guaranteeing you an additional return on the dollars you've invested, as long as colleges cover their direct costs, they come out ahead. Our colleges understand that they need to remain affordable, and they're eager to reward families who are truly saving for college.

Do you have a list of member Colleges and Universities?

Yes! This list is available at this link.

What if my favorite college is not on your list?

More colleges are being added all the time. Your favorite college may be on the list by the time you select a school. Start earning your Tuition Rewards now!

Are Tuition Rewards™ applicable to room, board, books, etc?

No. Just tuition.

Must the identified assets (hard dollars) actually be used for my child's college expenses?

No. These particular funds need not be used. It's always your choice how you finance your child's (or grandchild's) education.

Do you have a list of Financial Partners?

Yes! This list is available at this link.

What happens if I sell my eligible investments?

You stop accumulating Tuition Rewards. But, unless otherwise specified by your Tuition Rewards provider, the rewards that you've already earned stay in effect.

I don't see any colleges my child would apply to. He/she is in 9th grade. Why should I participate?

Two reasons: First, by the time your child is ready to apply to college additional schools of interest are very likely to be members. Second, SAGE is a free benefit to account holders of member financial institutions.

If I join SAGE now, while my child is in 9th grade, and the college he/she wants to attend does not join SAGE until my child is in 12th grade, will I still receive my total reward, from 9th grade on?

Yes! That's the beauty of SAGE -- as more colleges join, your tuition reward is applied to these schools, too -- and, you have more choices!

Is the tuition reduction taxable?

No. That's because with a scholarship or other form of reduced tuition, you're not receiving money. You're paying less for college

Is it better to borrow or save for college?

You decide! If you save $264/month for 10 years, and your investment delivers a 9% after-tax return, you'll accumulate $31,680. With reinvestment of dividends and interest, it will grow to $50,000. If you borrow $50,000 (at a 9% interest rate) and pay it back over 10 years, you'll pay back $75,960 -- $633 per month for 10 years.

Is my child guaranteed admission at participating colleges?

No. Each school's normal admissions standards apply.

Can Grandparents help?

Yes. Grandparents, aunts, uncles or any family members can be account holders.

Can my child still apply for financial aid?

Yes. financial aid should be discussed with your financial advisor, high school guidance counselor, or intended college. Participating colleges may use Tuition Rewards as part of, or separate from, their normal financial aid packages.

Is the money deducted from your assets?

NO! Your reward is not hard dollars. The SAGE scholarships you earn are like frequent flyer miles- they are something you receive for being a valued customer!

What else should I know?

The SAGE Tuition Rewards Program is for private colleges, NOT public colleges [state schools]. This is about financing undergraduate, not graduate, education. This program does NOT limit your choice of majors or your fields of study.

What's the catch?

The catch is that private colleges and universities are always looking to recruit students. Therefore, as a member of our program, the students you sponsor will have unparalleled connections with over 170 private colleges and universities.