Going to college and obtaining a college degree is an American dream. In 2006-2008, 27% of adults age 25 years or older had attained at least a bachelor's degree. This statistic would undoubtedly be higher if more potential college students had access to funds needed to cover college expenses. Lack of funds, steady overlapping college and general…

This guide explains in a question-and-answer format the Federal Direct Consolidation Loan Program, which is part of the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and is designed to help students and parents manage and repay money borrowed for postsecondary education, usually with just one monthly payment. Advantages of a Direct Consolidation…

This biweekly newsletter contains news and information about school improvement in the United States, designed expressly for parents and families. This issue highlights federal student loan interest rates, which have dropped to 3.37 percent, the lowest in nearly 35 years, saving money for millions of borrowers.

This guide to federal Direct PLUS loans for parents of students attending postsecondary education institutions begins with a list of frequently asked questions and answers. The first chapter is on the basics of what a Direct PLUS loan is and what parents need to know before applying for a Direct PLUS loan. The second chapter, which deals with…

The Direct PLUS Loan is one of the low-interest loans provided by the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. The U.S. Department of Education delivers loan proceeds through the student's school, and parents are responsible for repaying the Department. This booklet answers parents' questions about the loan program, including: (1) Am I…

This guide to financial aid programs provides Minnesota students with information on types of aid, qualifications, and how to apply. In the first section, "What is Financial Aid," the guide focuses on the purpose of financial aid, the different sources of financial aid, and how to qualify for aid. The second section, "How Do I Apply for Financial…

This booklet is designed to help prospective college students and their parents estimate college expenses, understand the financial aid process, become educated consumers of financing alternatives, and manage the repayment of education loans. It provides worksheets on how to figure direct and indirect college costs and how to save for college,…

This guide describes Federal student aid programs, how to apply for them, and what these programs entail. Guidelines are provided on the ways to find out about student financial aid that is available and how to choose a school carefully. Additionally examined are student eligibility requirements, financial need rules, dependency status, steps in…

Pertinent information about the Alaska Student Loan Program is summarized. The topics covered include: purpose of the program; terms; questions and answers concerning loan amounts, application procedures and repayment; a payment reminder including a schedule of payments; the Alaska student loan statutes; and the Alaska student loan regulations.…

This short brochure offers practical advice and information to parents and students on financing a college education. It opens with 10 facts about financing a college education to serve as a backdrop for the advice and information offered in the following pages. The brochure offers its information in a question and answer format. Topics covered…

Guidelines for a student financial counseling and debt management program from high school through graduate school are provided. A brief history on government aid for postsecondary education and student loan default is included. Publications and other ways that can help students make career decisions are identified. A plan for meeting tuition,…

This book provides information to prospective graduate students on how to acquire financial assistance for their graduate programs by explaining (1) what the difference is between undergraduate and graduate aid; (2) aid eligibility; (3) where to go for funding and how much is available; (4) how to be "marketable" to targeted funding sources; (5)…

The guide describes federal student financial aid programs and how to apply for them. First, general steps for finding out about financial aid are outlined. General information on student aid from the United States Department of Education is then provided, including explanations of student eligibility requirements, financial need, dependency…

This booklet provides guidance for students and families who seek help in meeting college costs. It begins with guidelines for developing a funding strategy, with tips on how to calculate amount needed and planner's net worth and including sample budget forms and balance sheets. This section is followed by descriptions of the investments…

"Straight A's: Public Education Policy and Progress" is a biweekly newsletter that focuses on education news and events both in Washington, DC and around the country. The following articles are included in this issue: (1) "Profiles in Leadership": Alliance Releases a Collection of Essays from America's Foremost Education…