This year, I volunteered at College Goal Sunday, a national event that helps college-bound high school seniors fill out their Federal Application for Financial Student Aid - also known as the FAFSA. As I helped families fill out the form, I couldn't help but overhear one young man and his mother as they finished up their on-line application.
He said, teasing, "Mom, if we just won the lotto, we wouldn't have to do all this." Mom smiled. She didn't say anything, but I knew she wished they had won the lotto too.
If you're like me, or this family, or most everyone else who hasn't had the good fortune to cash in on the winning numbers, your plan to pay for college probably involves a combination of savings, smart choices, financial aid, loans and ramen noodles for dinner.
Why use this Guide?
If you're like every other student or parent who calls us up at EduGuide, you probably find the question, "How will I pay for college?" overwhelming. There is a lot of information to sort out.
That's what the Pay for College Guide is for.
It's a one-stop shop for information on how to pay for college.
We outline five steps that will help you plan for your needs:
- Start Saving
- Investigate Real Costs
- Apply for Financial Aid
- Consider Loans
- Manage Money Wisely
We back each step up with advice from experts, college students and parents so you can make the right decisions, confidently.
Michelle Schira Hagerman is Director of Training at EduGuide.