Aging with Intention

When people think about the cost of college, tuition is usually the first number that comes to mind. However, the amount listed on a school's website is only one part of the financial commitment. The decisions you make before and during your education can have a major impact on the total amount you spend. Two students can attend similar programs and graduate with completely different financial outcomes based on the choices they make along the way. Paying for school is not onl

For many students, the cost of higher education can feel overwhelming before they even begin applying. Tuition, books, housing, transportation, and other expenses can add up quickly, making many people wonder how they will realistically afford school. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as the FAFSA, is one of the most important steps students can take when exploring how to pay for college. Despite its importance, many students avoid completing the FAFS

Many people assume they have to choose between working and going to school. In reality, thousands of employers offer tuition reimbursement or education assistance programs that can significantly reduce the cost of earning a degree, certificate, or professional credential. Unfortunately, these benefits often go unused because employees don't know they exist or assume they aren't eligible. If you're already working, one of the smartest financial decisions you can make is findin

Once you complete the FAFSA and begin receiving financial aid information from colleges, you may see several different types of assistance listed together. Grants, scholarships, work-study, and student loans may all appear in your financial aid package, but they are not interchangeable. Some forms of aid reduce the amount you have to pay back. Others create a financial obligation that can follow you for years after graduation. Before accepting any financial assistance, it is

For many students, scholarships are one of the best ways to reduce the cost of higher education without taking on additional debt. Unlike student loans, scholarships generally do not need to be repaid, making them one of the most valuable forms of financial aid available. Unfortunately, many students limit their search to a few large national scholarships or stop looking altogether after receiving a rejection. Others become discouraged by websites promising "guaranteed" award

When people think about college, many immediately picture a four-year university. While that path is the right choice for some students, it is not the only way to earn a degree. Starting at a community college can significantly reduce the overall cost of higher education while allowing students to complete many of the same foundational courses required at a university. For students looking to minimize debt, explore career options, or return to school after time away, communit