Paying for College: Pieces of the Funding Puzzle

July 18, 2022

The typical family uses a combination of income, savings, borrowing, and grants/scholarships to pay for college. Not surprisingly, the largest source of funding — 45% — comes from parents in the form of current income and savings.


Starting a college fund as early as possible and aggressively looking for grant aid at college time can help families reduce the amount they may need to borrow, giving students greater flexibility when making decisions. Colleges are usually the best source of grant aid. A net price calculator (available on every college website) can help students estimate how much grant aid they might receive at specific colleges.

college-funding-chart

All Securities Through Money Concepts Capital Corp., Member FINRA / SIPC

11440 North Jog Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 Phone: 561.472.2000

Copyright 2010 Money Concepts International Inc.

Investments are not FDIC or NCUA Insured

May Lose Value - No Bank or Credit Union Guarantee

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of MI. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2020.

Woman hugging an older person beside a laptop in a bright room
By TFC Team August 25, 2026
Learn how the Roth five-year rule works, how the timeline applies across IRAs and 401(k)s, and key rules for tax-free, penalty-free withdrawals.
People standing at a house entrance beside a white van parked on the street
By TFC Team August 25, 2026
Learn how relocating to a new state affects your taxes, including residency rules, remote work income, retirement tax differences, and part-year filing requirements.
Two office workers walk through a bright glass hallway, talking and carrying bags and papers.
By TFC Team August 25, 2026
Learn how index funds work, the concentration risks hidden in market-cap weighting, and how alternative strategies like Smart Beta and quantitative investing can fit into a diversified portfolio.
Two people and a child on a rope swing over a calm lake at sunset
By TFC Team August 25, 2026
Explore practical financial strategies, market insights, tax guidance, and retirement planning tips designed to help you navigate your financial future with confidence.
Show More