Student Loans 101

Student Loans 101.

Paying for college is an overwhelming concern for families with students heading to college.  First, every parent needs to fill out the FAFSA online.  This can be submitted anytime after January 1, 2013.  If you have a student who is applying to private colleges or universities, you should also fill out the CSS form.  Financial aid is a combination of  scholarships, grants, work-study and loans.  Families need to know the best loans available if they need additional help with college expenses.

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COLLEGE COUNSELOR: Know About The Western Undergraduate Exchange?

COLLEGE COUNSELOR: Know About The Western Undergraduate Exchange?.

via COLLEGE COUNSELOR: Know About The Western Undergraduate Exchange?.

If you live in the western states, you need to find out about WUE before doing your college search.  These schools will make paying for college a lot easier.  Each university in the WUE program has certain restrictions, but in most cases for students who qualify, the tuition is much less than it would be for other out-of-state students.

How to Pay for College: Sharing the Responsibility

Paying for college is a daunting task for parents and students alike.  Every year college tuition at most schools continues to increase.  Tuition does not cover all of the expenses; you must also include room and board, meal plans, books, transportation, etc.    Everything you read states the one obvious fact:  College is expensive.  Parents should always apply for financial aid by filling out the FAFSA online, even if you think you will not qualify.  Sometimes you are pleasantly surprised.  Students should apply for any scholarships for which they meet the minimum requirements.  Both parents and students need to be resourceful in finding ways to pay for college.  Sharing the responsibility for college expenses can be a positive experience for students.  It also makes them have a vested interest in their education.  Read the following article to find out more.  http://www.golocalprov.com/lifestyle/college-admissions-why-every-child-should-help-pay-for-college/

http://www.collegedirection.org

How to Pay for College: 5 Places to Look for College Scholarships

Scholarships are like free money for college.  They often take some time and effort but they can help you pay for college.  Here are 5 places to look:

First, check out scholarships that can be found in your high school college counseling office.

Then, contact each college to which you have applied and ask about any scholarships they may offer.

Next, sign up for some scholarship searches such as scholarships360, fast web, and broke scholar.

Then, check with local and national businesses and organizations like Rotary, parent’s employer, religious affiliations, etc.

Finally, consider special circumstances such as your prospective major, being a minority, or community service.