It can be overwhelming—trying to separate higher ed hype from the truth, navigating the application process, and figuring out what your kid will actually get for all that money. Here’s how to become a supersmart college shopper and create a shortlist of schools that fit your kid’s needs and your budget.
There are about 7,000 colleges and universities in the United States. Narrowing that down to a handful with your child is no easy feat, but you can do it. A clear-eyed conversation now about what your kid wants and what your family can afford will be key to eventual campus happiness—and a healthy financial life after graduation.