The only way to survive the college maze is to have the right tools. Like any DIYer you need to do some research first before you begin. And, you can’t start a new DIY project without the right tools!

Happily, most of them can be found online. The online maze can be overwhelming however if you don’t know where to go. Here are some tools to get you started familiarizing yourself with the college process:

Choosing the right college

Choosing the right college can be tricky. There are so many factors involved: size, location, majors, and accreditation. Here’s a great site for both parents and students.

Navigating Financial Aid

#1 Rule of financial aid: APPLY! Even if you are independently wealthy, APPLY. All colleges base their aid awards on the FAFSA. Pay close attention to the college deadlines and get your finances in order so you can fill yours out in a timely manner. Don’t wait until the last minute to familiarize yourself with this form.

College Testing

There are a variety of college entrance exams that your teen will need to take if they plan to attend college. Do some research in advance and don’t let the deadlines creep up on you. You can read more about testing by clicking on the picture below:

The Scholarship Search

Searching for scholarships is a huge part of the college maze. There are hundreds of scholarships available that can decrease the financial burden for you as a parent. Here’s the best site to begin that search:

Other College Sites

Here are some of  additional links you might be interested in:

CollegeSurfing.com

College Savings Plan Network

College View

Tuition Savings Calculator

Leave a comment here if you would like some help or assistance with any of these sites. I’d be happy to help!