Many university graduates start their adult lives dirt poor, but a college
diploma doesn’t have to be coupled with thousands of dollars of debt. Whether planning for college or already halfway through it, plan to manage debt or avoid it by following these tips:
Always Fill Out the FAFSA
Don’t assume you aren’t qualified for financial aid. No matter your parent’s income or your economic background, fill out the FAFSA (free application for federal student aid) every year. According to StudentAid.ed.gov, most people are eligible for financial aid. Eligibility is determined based on different criteria for different types of aid. For example, federal student aid programs take into account students with a parent who was killed in Iraq or Afghanistan, non-U.S. citizens, students with intellectual disabilities and students with criminal convictions. Federal student aid includes grants, loans and work-study programs that can help pay for schooling.