loans

  decoder disc, image by flickr user LEOL30, cc license Yesterday, we covered the difficult coversations parents and students have when they negotiate which school to choose. For many families, cost is a major consideration. In fact, according to this U.S. News survey of college freshman:For 48.7% of freshman, financial assistance was very important in their final college choice. For 45.9% of freshman, the cost of attending their choice was very important in their final college choice. To understand the difference in costs, families need to compare their financial aid awards. The problem is, however, that these award letters can be confusing.

  (picture from flickr user thomashawk) 

 With only hours to go until a federal government shutdown occurs, many are wondering what will happen to services on which they rely. As current college students or as parents of current college students the following information is extremely important, especially if the shutdown becomes protracted.