Things to consider before college

Here are a few things for parents to consider when planning their child’s education:

The ROI Higher learning will help kids succeed. On average college graduates earn 84% more than those with only a high school diploma (Georgetown’s Center on Education and the Workforce).

Move retirement assets to qualify for grants Reallocating your retirement assets, such as 401(k)s, can better position a child to qualify for grants and scholarships. This legal and ethical maneuvering may be the single most important factor when paying for college.

Recognize strengths and weaknesses Consider independent and objective analysis of your future college student. Assessment might include a personality profile, a detailed search for a future career, SAT and ACT prep courses, review of admissions essays and an in-depth analysis of chances for enrollment in a student’s top choices.

Create a checklist of financial aid forms To maximize a fair price of higher education create a checklist with a timeline and important deadlines.