Talking about college costs can feel overwhelming, but these questions can help you and your student make confident, informed decisions together. Use them to guide conversations about financial aid, affordability, and future goals.
What does your dream college experience look like — big university, small college, close to home, out of state?
Do you know the total cost of attendance (tuition, housing, meals, books, and personal expenses) for each college on your list?
What’s the difference between a sticker price and what families actually pay after financial aid?
Have you completed the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?
Which scholarships have you applied for so far?
Do any of your colleges automatically consider you for scholarships, or do you have to apply separately?
Have you received any financial aid offers yet? How can we compare them fairly?
Have you created a basic college budget — including tuition, living costs, and spending money?
Are you planning to work during school? If so, have you looked into work-study programs?
What expenses can you cover yourself, and which ones might we need to help with?
If loans are part of your plan, do you understand how much you’ll need to repay after graduation?
How can we balance dream schools with affordable options?
What’s most important to you — cost, program, location, or campus experience?
Keep the conversation ongoing! Your student’s understanding of financial aid will grow over time. Celebrate each milestone — submitting the FAFSA, earning a scholarship, or comparing award letters — as steps toward independence and success.