(Ann Johansson for USN&WR)
A Parent's Guide
To Paying for College
Paying your child’s college bills doesn’t have to be difficult or devastating as long as you learn the rules and follow the common sense. Keep coming back as we add new tools and tips.
Financial Aid 101
What is Financial Aid Anyway?
FAFSA, Stafford, EFC, PLUS. Colleges seem to speak a foreign language when the subject turns to money. But the basics are simple.
Figure Out the Cost of College
Estimate the price tag for community colleges, state schools, and private schools.
Competition is Tough: Tips for Winning More Aid
If you think getting accepted was hard, try paying tuition in this credit crunch.
Savings
Grow Your Savings with a 529 Plan or Prepaid Tuition
Your college money can grow and compound tax free.
FREE MONEY: GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Paying for Graduate School: Grants and Scholarships (Photo Illustration by USN&WR)
Getting Free Money for Your Child
Grants, also called scholarships or gift aid, are the best kind of financial aid because you don't have to pay them back. Here's where to look for help.
Where Those Grants and Scholarships Come From
The government, schools, and charities all offer free money.
Rankings
Loans
Paying for Graduate School: Loans (Photo Illustration by USN&WR)
Getting a Loan Might be a Struggle
Lenders are getting pickier about whom they give to.
Three Types of Loans for Parents
Borrowing should be one of the last options parents turn to when facing college bills. But used in moderation, parental loans can help smooth a child’s path through college and into a career.
Be Skeptical of Some Advice Out There
That information online might not be as unbiased as it appears.
Should You Lend to Your Child?
It's risky, but a new service might make it easier to get paid back.
Budgeting
Tackling That Bill in Eight Simple Steps
Many financial advisers say one way to reduce the pain of college bills is to tackle that cost bit by bit.
