Handbook: Preparing Your Child for College
A Resource Book for Parents
CONTENTS
I. General Questions about College
Why attend college?
What types of colleges exist?
What kinds of jobs are available to college graduates?
II. Preparing for College
What can my child do to prepare academically for college?
What can my child do outside the classroom to prepare for college?
III. Choosing a College
How can my child go about choosing a college?
IV. Financing a College Education
How much does a college education cost?
How can I afford to send my child to college?
What are the most common sources of financial aid?
Is my child eligible for financial aid? If so, how much?
Tax credits, deductions, and deferrals
Are there other ways to keep the cost of college down?
V. Long-Range Planning
VI. Important Terms
VII. Other Sources of Information
Where can I get more information on the topics discussed in this handbook?
Exercises and Checklists for You and Your Child
Help Your Child Think about a Career
Course Planner for Parent and Student
College Inquiries
College Preparation Checklist for Students
Financial Preparation Checklist for Parents
Charts
Chart: Examples of Jobs Requiring College Preparation
Chart: High School Courses Recommended for College
Chart: Questions to Ask Guidance Counselors
Chart: Amount You Would Need to Save to Have $10,000 Available When Your Child Begins College
Chart: How Much Need-based Financial Aid Can My Child Get?
Chart: Examples of Savings Instruments and Investments