PLANNING FOR COLLEGE

Planning for College 

College is a big step—and let’s be honest, it’s not cheap. But the earlier you start planning (financially and otherwise), the more options you’ll have and the less overwhelming it all feels.

Understand the Costs
Tuition costs can vary a lot from school to school. Compare a few potential options, including community college, public and private universities to get a feel of the range for in-state and out-of-state choices. If you’re planning far ahead, these costs may change by the time the first bill comes due, but it will give you a starting point.

Tuition is also just part of the picture. Factor in books, housing, food, transportation, and fees. Use college websites or online tools to get a realistic estimate of total yearly costs—then multiply that by how long you expect to be in school.

Explore Your Funding Options
If that number seems scary, don’t panic. It doesn’t necessarily mean a ton of debt. Look into scholarships, grants, and work-study programs first—those don’t have to be repaid. Then compare loan options carefully. Federal loans usually offer better terms and more flexible repayment options. Private loans, like our Student Choice loan, can be great backup options to help fill in the gaps.

Start Saving Today
If college is a few years away, consider opening a Roth IRA, Earn and Learn account, or other savings just for education expenses. Even $20 here and there adds up, and having that cushion can help reduce what you need to borrow later.

Work Together
If you're a student, involve your family. If you're a parent, talk with your child about expectations and responsibilities. College planning is a team effort. Our Together Investment and Retirement Services Team can also help you decide how education expenses fit into your overall financial plan.

Whether you're heading to school next year or just starting to think ahead, small steps now can lead to big opportunities later. We’ve got resources to help you compare costs, save smart, and make a plan that works for your future.

College Planning Tips

• Understand the Costs
• Explore Your Funding Options
• Start Saving Today
• Work Together