A guided path

Pay for college.

Every aid dollar you qualify for, and loans only with your eyes open.

4 milestones · 11 guides · your progress saves on this device, no account needed.

0/14

steps completed

Next up

FAFSA, Step by Step

1

You are here

File the FAFSA and chase the gift money

Grants and scholarships never get repaid, so they're the money to fight for first.

FAFSA, Step by Step6 min read

Common FAFSA Mistakes That Cost You Aid5 min read

Finding Scholarships You'll Actually Win6 min read

2

Decode the award letters

Letters blend gifts and loans on purpose. Untangling them changes the decision.

Grants vs. Loans vs. Scholarships5 min read

Reading a Financial Aid Award Letter6 min read

Compare Aid OffersCalculator

Course: Paying for College5 guides + final

3

Borrow the least, on the best terms

If you do borrow, federal-first and only what the first-year salary can carry.

Federal vs. Private Student Loans5 min read

Subsidized vs. Unsubsidized Loans5 min read

Student Loans, Before You Sign4 min read

4

Cut the sticker price itself

The cheapest loan is the one you never need.

The Community College Path6 min read

Work-Study, Explained4 min read

Getting Through College With as Little Debt as Possible6 min read

Checkpoint: 5-question quiz5 questions

Want the wider view?

This path is the guided lane through Student Loans & College Planning. The full library is always there when you want to wander, and if this isn't the right goal, pick a different path.