Remember:
Whether your child hopes to attend a public or private 4-year college, a community college, or a technical school, there’s a lot you can do as a parent or guardian to support your child in this process.
Prepare for that first tuition bill
The price of college listed on the website is called the sticker price. Don’t let the number scare you! Most families do not pay this price. The price of college to families after financial aid, grants, and scholarships is called the net price. The best way to prepare for paying for college is to have an understanding of the resources available to you and your family.
Here are some of the ways families pay for college:

Savings
The effort you’ve made to save for college will have a significant, positive effect on how you pay for college. Your child’s college savings account will reduce the need to take out loans and limit the financial burden loans may bear on your child upon graduation.


Financial Aid
Financial aid helps families pay for college. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines eligibility for federal financial aid and most scholarship programs.


Loans
You or your child may have to borrow additional money to pay for college. Since loans need to be repaid with interest, it is important to only borrow what you need.


Private or Outside Scholarships
A private or outside scholarship is money granted by local, state, or national organizations and businesses. These scholarships are usually awarded on a merit basis. Scholarship money may help reduce loans or pay for school supplies and books.


Student Contributions
Your son or daughter may contribute money from his or her own savings or a summer job to help pay for college.