College is an exciting step forward: a chance to discover new passions, build skills, and open doors you might not even know exist yet. But let's be honest: paying for it can feel overwhelming. The good news? When you understand your options and plan ahead, those big financial decisions become a lot more manageable.

Start Saving Today (Yes, Even Small Amounts Count)

Here's something that might surprise you: you don't need to save thousands of dollars at once to make an impact. Every $20 from a birthday card, every paycheck from your summer job—it all adds up.

Let's say you save $50 a month starting your sophomore year of high school. By graduation, that's over $1,800 you won't need to borrow. And remember, borrowed money comes with interest, so every dollar you save now actually saves you more down the road.

Not sure how high your goal should be? Try our How Much Do I Need to Save for College? calculator. It shows you exactly what monthly savings could mean for your college fund, making the goal feel more achievable.

Hunt for "Free Money" First

Before you even think about loans, it's time to become a scholarship detective. Scholarships and grants are essentially free money for college—you never have to pay them back. And they're more accessible than you might think.

Start with these places:

• Your school's financial aid office offers institutional scholarships based on academics, talent, or need.
• Local businesses and community organizations like the hardware store downtown or local businesses often sponsor students every year. These local scholarships usually have fewer applicants, which means better odds for you.
• Work-study programs let you earn money through part-time campus jobs while you're in school.

Here's something we're proud of: Highpoint Community Bank awards scholarships to local students every year. We believe in investing in our community's future, and that includes helping students pursue higher education without taking on unnecessary debt. Learn more about our scholarship program and how to apply. Don't let the essay intimidate you—every scholarship you apply for is worth the effort.

If You Need to Borrow, Borrow Smart

Sometimes savings and scholarships don't cover everything, and that's okay. Loans can be a helpful tool as long as you understand exactly will be required when payback time arrives.

Federal student loans are usually your best bet. They typically offer lower interest rates, flexible repayment plans, and protections like deferment if you hit financial rough patches. Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as early as possible to see what you qualify for.

Private student loans can help fill in any gaps federal loans don't cover. Through our partnership with College Ave, we connect students and families with private loan options that include clear information about interest rates, repayment timelines, and monthly payments after graduation. Learn more about private student loans through College Ave. 

The golden rule? Only borrow what you actually need. It's tempting to accept the full loan amount offered, but remember: you'll be paying it back with interest for years after you graduate.

Have the Money Talk Early (and Often)

Talking about money can feel awkward. But having open, honest conversations about college costs is one of the most valuable things families can do together. Sit down and map out the full picture: tuition, room and board, textbooks, meal plans, transportation, and surprise expenses like lab fees or a new laptop. When everyone understands the numbers, you can make realistic decisions together. These conversations also teach important life skills. Learning to budget and make informed financial choices now? That's practice for managing money throughout your entire life.

Learn More with Trusted Resources

You don't have to figure this out alone. The federal government offers free tools to help:

Federal Student Aid – College Preparation Checklist walks you through everything from taking the right classes to understanding financial aid timelines.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Paying for College helps you compare schools, estimate costs, and understand what different loans really mean.

MyMoney.gov – Students and Young Adults teaches budgeting, saving, and smart money management—skills you'll use long after college.

It's About More Than Just the Money

Preparing for college isn't just about filling out forms or crunching numbers. It's about creating a solid foundation so you can focus on what college is really for: learning, exploring, growing, and figuring out who you want to become.

Ready to start planning? We're here to help you every step of the way.