• FAFSA Online The FAFSA form isn't
  much fun to fill out, but this site
  eases the pain.
• fastWEB The finest Web-based
  site for finding college tuition
  assistance.
• FinAid: The Financial Aid Information
  Page
• National Association of Student
  Financial Aid Administrators
• Department of Education Office

TIP 1
Prioritize your efforts, starting with the federal government. Then turn to the private sector for additional assistance.

TIP 2
Learn all you can about the college financial aid process. Be sure to meet with your aid administrator [or guidance counselor] and establish a relationship.

TIP 3
Submit a FAFSA, even if you don't think you qualify for aid. Being rejected for federal aid is sometimes a prerequisite for private awards.

TIP 4
Apply for aid as soon as possible after January 1. The early bird always gets the worm-- and sometimes the scholarship!

TIP 5
Inform financial aid administrators [or guidance counselors] about atypical expenses. Certain allowances may be made to assist you.

TIP 6
Take advantage of tuition prepayment discounts. Some colleges offer up to a 10% discount for early payment.

TIP 7
Money from grandparents should be paid in your name directly to the school. This avoids gift tax liability.

TIP 8
Investigate company-sponsored tuition plans. Many employers will invest in the education of their employees.

TIP 9
Apply! You can not win awards or receive funds for which you do not apply, so pay attention to deadlines.

TIP 10
Use scholarship Web sites, coordinating with your guidance counselor.