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🔒 100% FERPA & PII Compliant
The insider advantage for your college financial aid strategy
AidCanvas gives your family direct access to a genuine college financial aid insider. AidCanvas was founded by David Dey, a former Associate Director of Financial Aid at Columbia University (2016–2023).
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David's firsthand expertise includes managing Ivy League federal and private loan processing, overseeing $20+ million in annual institutional aid disbursements, and serving on financial aid appeals committees.
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David holds an M.A. from Teachers College, Columbia University and a B.A. from Hamilton College. He brings a direct understanding of how selective financial aid offices evaluate applications, assess special circumstances, and navigate complex appeals.
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Every engagement is managed entirely personally by David and is fully accessible to families in English, Español, and Português.
Who we serve and what is includedÂ
AidCanvas supports families based in the U.S., Americans living abroad, and international families. We're with you throughout the entire financial aid process — not just for a single form or a one-time review.
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From your first FAFSA and CSS Profile submission through verification, award letters, and appeals, David stays engaged with your family at each stage to help you reach the strongest possible outcome.
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FAFSA eligibility is limited to U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens. International families typically qualify only for institutional or CSS Profile–based aid. We'll confirm what applies to your family during your consultation.
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The official FAFSA application is always free. It's submitted directly to the U.S. Department of Education at no cost. AidCanvas charges only for our optional, independent consulting — the strategy, review, and guidance we provide alongside your family's own free FAFSA and CSS Profile submissions.
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Every engagement covers FAFSA and CSS Profile completion support, tax return and documentation review, award letter review, financial aid appeals, and guidance specific to your target institutions.
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David manages the strategy, paperwork review, and appeals process. Families remain responsible for submitting their own FAFSA, CSS Profile, and institutional forms, since these must be filed directly by the applicant or parent.
What to expect
1. Request your free 30-minute consultation
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2. We'll confirm your appointment within 1-2 business day(s)
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3. Complete a short intake summary and meet with David for your session
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4. If it's a good fit, receive a paid engagement proposal outlining your college financial aid strategy and next steps
*AidCanvas Solutions LLC is an independent financial aid advisory practice. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of Columbia University, the U.S. Department of Education, FAFSA®, the College Board, or CSS Profile®. We never request your FSA ID or portal credentials.