Finances

Up
Finances
Back to School
Guide to College
Once They've Left
Need to Knows

Where to Start
College Aid
Federal Programs
Fellowships & Grants
Loans
Military Aid
National Service
Savings
Scholarships
State Programs
Tax Credit
Work Study
Dependency Status
FinAid Terms
Deadline Tips

If you're one of those few parents that thought this far ahead back when your child was in diapers you should be squared away by now. But, if not, its alright, most parents don't begin even thinking about college or its financial implications until their children get into high school.

There are many options available to help you foot the bill for the most expensive four-years (or longer) of your child's life.

Paying the bill

If you haven't a clue where to begin there a few good places to start.

Most colleges provide some kind of institutional aid.

There are also many options available at the federal and state level.

Fellowships and grants are easy ways for your child to receive interest free aid.

There are many forms of student loans that can be taken out by either you or your child.

You may encourage your child to pursue forms of military aid or national service aid which offer financial aid to students who serve in their programs.

Scholarships are one of the best forms of financial aid because they don't have to be paid back.

There are many tax benefits for adults who are planning to return to school or are sending their children through school.

Suggesting a work study program to your child is a very feasible solution.

Is it wise as far as financial aid is concerned to have your child maintain their dependency status? Perhaps, but perhaps not.

Are you confused with all of the terms used in materials written about financial aid? So are we, learn the lingo before you get too confused.

Is your student a procrastinator, never doing things until the last minute. You can calmly suggest some of these deadline tips to help avert another missed deadline.