September is College Savings Month, a time dedicated to encouraging families to think ahead about the cost of education and the many ways they can prepare for it.

While starting early can make saving easier, college planning is not just for parents of young children. Whether college is more than a decade away, your student is already in high school, or you are considering returning to school yourself, there are steps you can take to make education costs more manageable.

Start With a Realistic Picture of the Cost
Tuition is only one part of the college budget. Housing, meals, books, transportation, technology, fees, and everyday living expenses can add up quickly.

As you compare schools, look beyond the published price. Financial aid, scholarships, grants, and other assistance may significantly change what a student actually pays. Comparing the estimated net cost of several schools can provide a more useful picture than focusing on tuition alone.

Explore Different Ways to Save
A traditional savings account can be a good place to start, especially if you want easy access to funds. Families may also consider education-focused options such as 529 plans, which offer potential tax advantages when funds are used for qualified education expenses. Be sure to consult your legal and/or  tax advisor.

The most important step is often simply getting started. Even smaller, regular contributions can add up over time. Consider directing birthday money, tax refunds, bonuses, or other unexpected income toward education savings.

Grandparents and other family members may also want to contribute, making college savings a family effort rather than something parents have to tackle alone.

Find Creative Ways to Reduce the Bill
Saving is only one side of the equation. Students can also look for opportunities to lower the amount they need to pay.

Consider options such as:

• Advanced Placement or dual enrollment courses: Earning college credit while still in high school may reduce the number of credits a student ultimately needs to purchase.
• Community college first: Completing general education requirements at a community college before transferring to a four-year institution can lower overall costs.
• Scholarships of all sizes: Local organizations, employers, foundations, professional associations, and community groups may offer scholarships. Smaller awards can still make a meaningful difference when combined.
• Employer tuition assistance: Some employers help employees pay for college courses or degree programs. Students may want to consider education benefits when evaluating part-time or full-time jobs.
• Work-study and campus employment: Working during college can help cover routine expenses while reducing reliance on borrowing.
• Living at home: For students attending a nearby school, commuting may significantly reduce housing and meal costs.

Complete Financial Aid Forms Early
Students should become familiar with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Even families who assume they will not qualify for need-based aid may benefit from completing it, since FAFSA information can also be used for certain grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities.

Pay attention to federal, state, and individual college deadlines, since some funding may be limited.

Make Borrowing the Last Piece of the Plan
Student loans can be a useful tool, but they should be considered as part of a broader strategy. Before borrowing, understand the interest rate, repayment terms, and approximate monthly payment after graduation.

It can also help to compare the anticipated cost of a degree with potential career earnings and other financial goals a student may have after college.

It Is Never Too Early or Too Late to Plan
College Savings Month is a reminder that preparing for education does not require having every detail figured out today. It is about starting conversations, exploring choices, setting realistic goals, and taking the next manageable step.

Whether you are opening your first college savings account or helping a high school senior compare financial aid offers, thoughtful planning today can create more options tomorrow.