Financial Planning

The Princeton Review announces its 2010 Best Value Colleges

The Princeton Review just announced its 2010 Best Value Colleges, and the University of Virginia was named the best value in public schools. Swarthmore College gives the biggest bang for the buck among private schools, according to the list.

Six Places To Look for Money for College

Before you give up - here are six places to look for money for college.

New tax benefits available for college parents

Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), more parents and students will qualify over the next two years for a tax credit, the American Opportunity Credit, to pay for college expenses.

An introduction to 529 Savings Plans

Are you curious about 529 Plans? A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings plan designed to encourage saving for future college costs. 529 plans, legally known as "qualified tuition plans," are sponsored by states, state agencies, or educational institutions and are authorized by Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code.

 

 

Beware of scholarship scams

Need money for college? Unfortunately, in their efforts to pay the bills, many students and their families are falling prey to scholarship scams. The Federal Trade Commission cautions students on how to discover fraud.

FAFSA Forecaster from the US Department of Education: Providing you with an early estimate of your eligibility for federal student aid

If you want to begin exploring your financial aid options and get an early start on the financial aid process, FAFSA4caster is for you! By using FAFSA4caster, you and your family will receive an early estimate of eligibility for federal student aid. When you’re ready to apply for aid, much of the information that you enter in the FAFSA4caster will populate your FAFSA on the Web application, making the experience of applying for federal student aid a lot easier.

 

Obama Promises to Show Students the Money

President Obama stressed that “there are few things as fundamental and necessary to American success than higher education. The best job qualification you can have is a college degree or advanced training.” However, college tuition has grown ten times faster than typical family incomes. While President Obama challenged colleges to lower tuition costs, he’s also made sweeping proposals of reform.

Interest Rates on Federal Education Loans to Drop July 1

Starting in July, the interest rates on these education loans will drop to a historic low — which will save you thousands of dollars in interest over the life of your loan.