FAMILY TIPS
You may be wondering how you can help your student during the college-planning process. Here's a checklist with some tips to get you started.
O Start saving for college now.
You can use the College Cost Calculator at kheaa. com to estimate how much you'll need to save each month to cover the future cost of a college education. Visit kysaves.com for information about Kentucky's 529 plan.
O Attend college visits, job fairs, college nights and financial aid nights with your student.
Check into such career options as apprenticeships and internships.
O Talk with your student about selecting a school.
Look for one that is within your budget and offers them the program and environment they're looking for.
O Meet key deadlines.
Remember that different colleges will have different deadlines for applications, deposits, academic requirements, financial aid, etc.
O Complete the FAFSA.
Submit the FAFSA as soon as possible once it opens during your senior year. Kentucky grants are awarded to eligible applicants on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.
○ Apply for scholarships and grants.
These generally don't have to be repaid, so students should try to get as many scholarships and grants as possible. You and your student can explore scholarships at kheaa.com.
O Understand your loan options.
The majority of students, however, now need loans to help pay college costs. Many people also take out loans to help their children. That means students and families need to be informed consumers. (For more information about loans, see pages 20–21.)
Help your student keep track of the application process.
Many students apply to more than one school, so it can be expensive. If you can't afford to pay an application fee, see if the school is willing to waive it.
O Review the FAFSA Submission Summary.
Make sure the FAFSA Submission Summary you receive is accurate.
O Compare financial aid offers.
Make sure both you and your student understand how much is free aid (scholarships, grants, etc.), how much is loans and how much you will be expected to pay. Contact the financial aid office if you have any questions.
O Work with your student to set up a budget.
The budget should show what financial aid will cover, how much you'll pay and how much your student will contribute through work and student loans.