Senator DeWitte knows that as higher education costs steadily increase, more and more students and families are looking for ways to tackle the costly burden of college tuition, fees, and room-and-board.

Experts suggest the best way to prepare for the costs of higher education is to talk honestly about these obligations and plan ahead. Students or parents seeking information on financial aid, scholarships, grants, prepaid tuition, and loans are encouraged to visit the Illinois Student Assistance Commission’s College Zone website at www.isac.org and the What’s Next Illinois website at www.whatsnextillinois.org.

On these sites students and parents can learn more about:

• Colleges and universities across the country

• Creating a college payment plan

• Financial aid options

• Information about scholarships

• Information about loan repayment and federal help 

Also, be sure to check out the Bright Start 529 College Savings Plans. They offer a tax-advantaged way to save for college. Starting early and putting away even a small amount of money each month can have a huge impact on future educational expenses.