1. Search high and low. Talk to your school guidance counselor. The Internet is a wealth of information on loans, scholarships and grants. But this takes a lot of time, so start early – even in middle school. Zero in on what your strengths and unique characteristics are – academic performance, parents’ union membership, family income, ethnic background, family alumni status, etc. That will narrow down your search and help you net the most money. And keep searching during your college career. Things are always changing, which means new opportunities.
  1. Get personal. Get to know the folks in the college financial aid office and make sure they know you. They are your link to funding that comes in – sometimes unexpectedly in a new scholarship or if a student leaves mid-semester. Make sure you are the first person they think of to help.
  1. Get a job or two. Working and going to school can be tough – there’s no doubt about it. But working students actually perform better than those who don’t have a job in college. Work during breaks and summers and sock away as much as you can.
  1. Get creative. Look off-campus for jobs, where they’re often better paying. Start your own business – many successful start-ups have their roots in college dorm rooms. If you have to work multiple jobs during the school year, try to pick at least one position related to your major. Think about student work programs that allow you to study geysers at Yellowstone for some hands-on experience. This will help build your resume, as well as your bank account.
  1. Eat more Ramen. Thrifty is nifty when it comes to a college student budget. Do whatever you can to cut corners on spending – clip coupons, ride your bike or walk, buy used books, don’t dine out, eat Ramen noodles (what would college be without them?) Every penny helps.