This wasn’t an issue for our first, who applied to state schools where need-based aid wasn’t going to happen. Our second has applied to private schools, where he should be in line for need based grants. Do any schools put FA amounts on the portal before they go out via snail mail? On one hand, we’ll find out when we find out. On the other hand, I’m sure he’d like to know if Ithaca is going to give him enough grant aid for it to be affordable. The scholarship isn’t going to be enough. I will also admit to being a bit curious, although I still think his financial safety is probably the best match for him.
Yes, some schools do this.
I don’t have much experience but at the two schools my D applied to we got FA award by letter. But neither school really had a portal until you were attending there.
My D got FA award only in portal in subsequent years at the school she attended.
These letters came in April, back when FAFSA opened in January, so hopefully you won’t have to wait that long.