Planning Tips

Ten Steps to Planning for Your Child’s Higher Education

1. Save money as early as possible to help pay for your child’s education. A great resource to help with this is the College Savings Toolkit. This website provides information and resources to help families understand the unique language of early college investing and the range of savings options that are available.

2. Encourage your child to make middle and high school count, so they will be prepared academically for higher education.

3. Talk to your child about his or her skills and interests, career options, and schools or trades that he or she is considering.

4. Meet with the high school guidance counselor to determine what options match your child’s academic abilities.

5. Gather information about the schools or programs your child is interested in attending including information on financial aid.

6. Help your child apply for admission into schools and programs. To apply for financial aid, help your child complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

7. Consider scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Complete any necessary applications or forms.

8. Consider the loan programs available to you and your child.

9. Learn more about tax credits, deductions and other considerations for education expenses.

10. Help your child be successful with their higher education choices.

Please check the topics included in this section designed to help you and your child successfully map out a successful future.