You can estimate how much specific schools will cost and determine if your family has the funds to afford the expense using our Online Affordability Analyzer.

In addition to tuition, you'll need to factor in various costs such as room and board, transportation, fees, books, and personal expenses. To get a good picture of the real cost of college, take time to read about the cost components.

When evaluating a school's affordability, look at your family's overall financial picture to determine which costs you can cover. If your family is like most, you'll need to investigate all the financial aid options offered at a school. Keep notes on everything you learn and file them in that school's folder.

If you're thinking about student loans, keep in mind several factors (besides the amount you borrow) make up the true cost of education loans. Consider interest rates, fees, in-school payments, deferments, and government interest benefits paid on federal subsidized student loans. It's a good idea to understand your responsibilities as a borrower, the consequences of excessive debt, and managing your finances. You can learn more about all of this in the Financing section.

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