You want to start your FASFA as soon as possible to get as much Free Federal Student Aid as possible. If you do not have your taxes done, it is fine to use estimated information and edit later. However, do not delay, submit your FASFA today. Even if you do not qualify for anything other than student loans, please submit the FASFA for your student.

You might be eligible this year for subsidized student loans, which means that the government will pay the interest on them while you are in school. This is an excellent service, and well worth it if the government offers.

The other part of the equation is to look at your finances.  Both you and your parents will have to put down on paper the amount of money you made as well as any expensive items you might own.  These include second homes, cars, etc.  These are items that could be sold/used to pay for college.  The key to this part of the equation is to have as few assets as possible.  So if you want a car, try and get it registered under your parents name.

The last thing is, don’t choose the college because you like how much financial aid it gives you.  The most important part of going to college is getting an education.  Choose a college that matches both you and your lifestyle.  Take full advantage of your financial aid options that let’s you enjoy as much of the college enviornment as possible, instead of working.  Enjoy yourselves!