I'm a college expert, and the biggest mistake I see students make is not negotiating their financial aid offer. Here's how to do it.

• Most colleges will let you negotiate your financial package; they just don't openly admit it.
• To do so, you must do your research to see how much the school is offering other students.
• From there, you can set up a meeting with your admissions officer to negotiate your offer.

For most students, the college-selection process is all about three big questions: Which school is the right fit, can I get in, and can I afford it?