Tools to help you select the best school for your student

SchoolMatters.com – Use this online resource to research high schools across the U.S. Learn how students are performing in math, science, reading, graduation rates, drop-out rates, test scores and demographic information.

Tools you can use to help your student prepare for college

Free guide to federal financial aid (PDF) – Download this free guide to better understand the loans, grants, and work-study programs available through the federal government, and how to apply for each.

Everybody Else’s Guide to Getting Into College – A must-have guide for those students who may not be as prepared as you had hoped. This is the only college preparation guide written expressly for students who need more than a little polish on their college application. Everybody Else’s Guide features easy-to-follow action plans and advice to help your student improve his/her GPA and test scores, add depth to his/her application, write a solid essays, and improve his/her chances of admission by 100%!

Directory of State Education Organizations – information on the state’s education programs, colleges and universities, financial aid assistance programs, grants, scholarships, continuing education programs, and career opportunities.

Parent Loans - Learn more about the Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students, or PLUS Loans. These loans allow you to borrow money directly from the government or from a private lender to cover any remaining balances not covered by your child’s financial aid award (You may borrow enough to cover your child’s entire tuition).

Section 529 College Savings Plan – Fact sheet on tax-deferred college savings plans that can be used to pay for tuition, books and other fees for college. Explains how the plan allows you, your child’s grandparents or family and friends to put away money for college years before your child will need it.

College Savings Plan Locator – Get information on the college savings plans (529 Plans) available in your state.

Calculators – Calculate your expected family contribution, the amount of money you’ll need to save in order to have enough for college or how much your loan payment will cost and how long you’ll have to repay it

Tools to help your student plan his/her career

Careersthatdontsuck.com – A fresh new career and job search website that profiles new and exciting career options that offer not only a good paycheck, but also a rewarding experience–whether it’s because you are pursuing a passion or because you are privileged to work in a low-stress environment. Careersthatdontsuck.com also features a comprehensive directory of job search sites and the latest job search tools and advice.