Final answer:
Planning for post-secondary education requires researching tuition costs across various institutions and understanding the financial aid options available, including grants, scholarships, and loans. Tools like the Jumpstart Coalition's Reality Check can assist in budgeting for the lifestyle you aspire to after graduation.
Step-by-step explanation:
When embarking on the journey of post-secondary education, it is crucial to plan early and understand the financial requirements associated with your chosen program. Researching the cost of tuition for the first year of the program involves looking into various post-secondary institutions and may require utilizing technology, print resources, and consulting with school counselors.
Be sure to explore and compare the available financial aid options, such as grants, scholarships, and work-study programs, and understand the application processes, like completing the FAFSA® form. Additionally, consider the potential of education savings plans and analyze different student loan options. Taking these steps will equip you with an understanding of the total cost and assist in assembling a plan to afford your education.
When selecting a program, you should also consider the prospective earnings and the lifestyle you hope to achieve after graduation. Tools like the Jumpstart Coalition's Reality Check can help you create a budget and gauge the income necessary to support your desired lifestyle. Doing this preliminary budgeting is part of financial planning for college.