Chapter 1: Sizing up the challengeCollege costs rise every year, but few students pay the full sticker price. Discover how to maximize financial aid opportunities and how to search for the college best suited for your student.The rising costs of collegePicking the right college for you -- and your walletFAFSA: a critical piece of the puzzleChapter 2: Building a college fundGet the details on creating, growing and tapping college investment plans such as 529s, prepaid tuition plans and education bond programs.529 savings plans529 prepaid tuition plansCoverdell accountsComparing savings plansEducation bond programsChapter 3: Last-minute financingYikes! Your star is a senior and college funds are nonexistent. Don't panic. There are plenty of ways to reduce expenses and finance college costs even at this late date.Reduce your contribution, increase aidMinimize college tuitionFinancing a college education Chapter 4: Where to find the moneyFinancial aid opportunities come in a variety of ways from a number of sources including your state and federal government, colleges and even employers.Federal loans and grantsState aid programsGetting help from collegePrivate scholarshipsAlternative sourcesWhen enough isn't enough4 scholarship scams to avoidChapter 5: Paying off student loansLearn how to manage your student loans, how and when to consolidate them, and ways to get them forgiven forever.Repaying your student loansFAQs on student loan consolidationGood deeds get rewardedWhen you just can't pay: How to avoid default advertisementRelated Links:Which student loans for my grad school kid?Series I savings bonds vs. 529 college planShould co-signer sue kid over student loan?Related Articles:5 student loan errorsFederal Student Loans 101Go to college
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