Families need to consider the cost of the completed college education as they plan for the future.  The College Cost Projection calculator is one of many places on-line where families can get a fuller picture concerning the total cost of college.

It is expected that each student and/or family will assist in financing the education of family members beyond high school.  An "Estimated Family Contribution" of "EFC" is determined with the completion of the FAFSA form.  Based on the EFC, the amount of financial aid available for the student is determined.  Families interested in determining the potential EFC they will deal with will find assistance at the FAFSA4caster tool provided by the federal Department of Education.  There is no cost for the use of this tool and it does not change or replace the actual FAFSA form that must be completed in the financial aid process.

Frequently students and parents struggle with the need to seek loans to meet the cost of higher education.  A number of web sites provide helpful calculators to give families a better picture of repayment schedules and interest rates.  A typical loan calculator is found at this web site.

In order to complete the FAFSA electronically on-line, it is necessary to obtain a government PIN number.  This number can and should be obtained before plans are made to complete the FAFSA.  Both parents and students need their own PIN.  The link above connects directly to the site where a PIN number can be obtained.

The Free Application of Federal Student Aid form is usually completed electronically on-line.  The paper forms are being phased out. Families preferring the paper format can download and print out the form, contact the guidance office, or contact the college financial aid office for additional assistance.  IT IS NEVER A REQUIREMENT FOR A FAMILY TO PAY A FEE TO COMPLETE THE FAFSA ON-LINE.  IF PAYMENT IS REQUESTED, IT IS LIKELY THAT YOU ARE ON THE WRONG WEB SITE.  The official web site can be reached at the link above.

It is required that all young males register with the Selective Service System within 30 days of their 18th birthday.  Students can register at the local post office or on-line.  Registration is required in order to receive any financial aid from the government and many other sources.  The link above connects with the Selective Service registration page.

Some colleges or scholarship programs may require additional financial information concerning a student to award non-government funds.  Theservice that is generally used to complete this task is the Collegeboard CCS Financial Aid Profile.  There is a cost for this service.  Student should only complete this information when a school or scholarship in which they are interested requires it.

Students and parents should beware of attempts to take advantage of families looking for financial assistance.    A very helpful collection of warning signs to be alert for is found on the FinAid web site at the link above.

Fast Web is a comprehensive site that provides complete and update information regarding scholarship opportunities and issues relating to college financing.  Fast Web provides periodic bulletins concerning financial aid and scholarship issues.  The most recent bulletins can be reached at the above connection.