I’ve been meaning to write on this topic for quite a while.  This most recent article from Business Insider is fueling my need to comment on the situation now: http://www.businessinsider.com/50-colleges-charge-60000-dollars-2014-7 The price of attending college in this country has skyrocketed to the point of costing more than $60,000 per year for many private schools.  As the mother of a toddler, I often wonder how much college will cost by the time my child graduates from high school.  Over the years through helping students from various socio-economic backgrounds, I’ve realized a few things about how financial aid works.  Colleges and universities can be very generous with financial aid depending on many factors.  Students coming from lower to middle income families can receive scholarships if they apply to certain schools.  How does one figure out which schools?  College admissions is a complex equation of many things coming together for a student that will make him or her more desirable to a specific school.  What about you stands out?  What makes you unique?  Working with a college counselor will steer you in the right direction in terms of where to apply.  Considering how expensive college is nowadays, it only makes sense to get assistance from an experienced professional.  Every family is different, and speaking with a neutral party about your situation can help you to gain clarity and make sound decisions.