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Many students at most colleges don’t pay the stated cost of tuition, fees, room, and board. In a lot of cases, academic scholarships and financial aid are available to assist. At °®¶¹´«Ã½, for example, 94 percent of students receive some form of financial aid, and each year our students receive more than $100 million in state, federal, and institutional resources.

Most colleges have a net price calculator online to help gauge what to expect as a first-year student. This tool also provides an early estimate of what types and amounts of financial aid you might receive. Think of it as a barometer of a college’s net price (or what you’ll actually pay) versus its sticker price.

If you or your student doesn't already have a college fund, you may want to consider opening one sooner rather than later. You’ll be in a better financial position if you start saving today rather than waiting until tomorrow. Human nature finds excuses not to save, so make a plan and begin now.

Would your student enjoy big classes with professors who lecture and leave the one-on-one work to graduate assistants? Or would they thrive in smaller classes where professors lead discussions and personally connect with every student? Finding a college that suits their learning style will increase their chances of academic success and of graduating on time (or even early). This, of course, reduces cost and enables them to begin earning a salary sooner. °®¶¹´«Ã½â€™ Finish in Four guarantee provides a concrete plan for each student to complete a degree in four years.

Encourage your student to take both the SAT and ACT. However, know that many colleges, including °®¶¹´«Ã½, are Test Optional, meaning you do not have to submit test scores to be considered for admission. At many institutions, you can also be considered for the full range of scholarships and financial aid even without scores.

Your student's successful completion of dual-enrollment courses will not only reduce their time to graduation (thereby lowering costs), but it also allows more flexibility for study-abroad options or pursuing a double major.

Help your student file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) during their senior year in high school shortly after it opens on October 1. This form enables each college they list to provide the maximum amount of financial aid for your family.

Many free sites can help with this process, but it will take time and effort on your student's part. Keep in mind that lots of students are seeking these scholarships. Have them ensure their application is error-free and their essay is engaging and interesting, and encourage them to seek help from a teacher or counselor. Check out a few of our favorite sources to find outside scholarships.