Paying For It: The College Plan
There's no way around it - college is expensive! While we'll do all we can to maximize your scholastic and need-based aid, only an exceptionally small number of students get that "free ride." (We know a few.)
When it comes to preparing for college costs there are three kinds of families:
The Big Savers - these are the families that have saved 80-100% of their child's expected college costs. Out of the hundreds of families we meet each year we estimate only 1% can call themselves members of this exclusive club.
The Little Savers - these are families that have saved at least 10% of their child's expected college costs. This is about 5% of all families we meet. Again, it's a pretty small club!
The Wish We Saved - this group comprises the vast majority of American families with less than 10% of their child's expected costs "in the bank." If you're a member, know that you're in good company!
To put these figures in context it is important to know just how much a 4-year college education costs. According to a report by The College Board (the folks who administer the SAT), the average cost for a 4-year degree at a public university is more than $77,000. That figure DOUBLES at private universities where the cost is estimated at a little more than $156,000.
By understanding the college funding system - which includes federal, state and institutional (school) aid programs - as well as evaluating your family's financial picture we can help you to develop a plan that will educate all of your children and help to safeguard your retirement.
Before you sign a single financial aid form or loan document you need to have a realistic plan in place to manage those costs. Many families will be facing these college costs just a few years before they plan to retire. Remember, you can borrow for college but you can't borrow for retirement. You need a plan!
Find out how much college will cost you - and how you can safeguard your family's finances - by scheduling your FREE consultation today.
Complete College Solutions, Inc. is proud to be a BBB Accredited Business since September 4, 2002.
