Help Me Pay for College

Do I need this EduGuide?

If you’re a high school student who wants to go to college, but you’re not sure you can afford it, this EduGuide is for you. Learn about financial aid for students, scholarships, grants, and loans, as well as other steps you can take to make college affordable.

How does it work?

Quizzes help you know where you stand.

• You’ve got the book smarts, but do you have the money smarts to get to college? Take our quiz “Do I Know How to Pay for College?” to find out where you stand.

Articles give you the background information you need to make a decision.

• “The Real Cost of College” The cost of college may be less than you think.
•  “Money-saving College Prep Advice for Teenagers” How you handle the next couple of years in class can make a big difference.
• "Community Service Ideas That Help Students Pay College Expenses" Many programs are available that let students defer or repay student loans (and even pay for some college expenses) by working in disadvantaged communities.

ShortCuts help you take immediate action. Choose one or go through them all.

• "Interview a Financial Aid Advisor about Financial Aid Requirements" Advisors are there to help you get the answers you need to understand the complexities of financing your education.
• "Ace the FAFSA" We’ll show you how to make the FAFSA work for you.
• "Find Free College Money on the Web" Money is available if you know where to look.
• "Choose the Right Student Loans for College" When you know your options and can speak the lingo, it isn’t hard to select the right student loan.
• "Save Money on Your Student Loans for College" Since half of your money for college will come from loans, it is smart to follow the advice of experts.

What will I learn from this EduGuide?

• What questions to ask a college financial aid officer
• How the classes you take in high school can save you money in college
• Where to sign up for free scholarship information
• What types of student loans are available and how they differ
• How community service can help you pay off your student loans

Quick Solutions

• What can I do in 15 minutes? Find out how much you know about financial aid by taking the quiz, “Do I know How to Pay for College?” Sign up and complete a personal profile on a free scholarship search web site. Make an appointment with your high school guidance counselor to review your class schedule to make sure you are taking classes that will help save you money in college.
• What can I do in one hour? Talk with your parents about how you and they can pay for your college education, reviewing your options for loans, scholarships, and other opportunities.