Does Naviance Add-On From Blackbaud Cost Money? (The Price of College Dreams)
You’re a parent, your child is about to embark on the thrilling, terrifying, and utterly confusing journey of college applications, and you’re staring down the barrel of a question that sends shivers down the spines of even the most seasoned parents: Does Naviance add-on from Blackbaud cost money?
The short answer? It’s a little more complicated than a simple “yes” or “no”. It’s like trying to unravel the mystery of why your child’s sock drawer perpetually looks like a black hole, swallowing socks with the fervor of a hungry monster.
Let’s delve into the murky waters of Naviance, Blackbaud, and the ever-present question of cost.
Naviance, for those uninitiated, is a college and career planning platform that’s become like the Swiss Army Knife of high school guidance. It’s a treasure trove of information, college applications, and even the ability for students to showcase their achievements, all neatly tucked into one digital platform.
Blackbaud, on the other hand, is a software company that caters to educational institutions, providing a plethora of tools for things like student information management, fundraising, and even (you guessed it), payment processing.
Here’s the thing: Blackbaud doesn’t directly charge for Naviance. They offer a suite of educational management solutions, and Naviance is usually a separate, third-party application integrated into their ecosystem.
So, where does the cost come in?
Well, it’s a bit like a game of telephone. You have your school, who likely uses Blackbaud’s software, and you have Naviance, the third-party platform. The school, depending on their subscription to Blackbaud’s services, might have a fee associated with using Naviance.
It’s like that awkward moment when you’re at a party, trying to get the wifi password, and the host tells you to ask the person who gave them the password, who tells you to ask the person who set up the router, who tells you to ask the person who… well, you get the picture.
The key takeaway: The cost of Naviance is ultimately determined by your school’s contract with Blackbaud and their pricing structure.
But wait, there’s more!
Blackbaud itself has a few fees that you might encounter, even if Naviance isn’t directly involved.
- Blackbaud Payment Enablement Fee: This is a monthly fee that customers using Blackbaud’s payment-enabled solutions pay. Think of it as a subscription fee for the privilege of using their online payment system.
- Credit Card Usage Fee: Blackbaud also charges a fee for every credit or debit card transaction processed through their system. This fee varies from school to school, depending on state regulations and the school’s preferences.
So, how do you figure out if there’s a cost for Naviance?
The best approach is to contact your school’s guidance counselor or admissions office. They should be able to provide you with the most accurate information regarding any costs associated with using Naviance.
But, remember: If the school is using Naviance as a separate application, the cost might already be factored into your tuition or other school fees.
The bottom line: The cost of Naviance is a bit like a tangled web of financial intricacies. It’s best to avoid getting lost in the labyrinth and ask for clarification from your school.
Remember, your child’s future is at stake, and knowing the costs involved is crucial for making informed decisions about their college journey. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get the information you need.
Need more help navigating the world of college applications, Naviance, and Blackbaud? Join the JobLoving community! We have a wealth of resources and knowledgeable individuals ready to assist you on your journey.