Budgeting: Understand your college expenses, including tuition, books, and living costs, to determine the necessary loan amount.
Borrow Wisely: Only borrow what you need, as you'll pay interest on any borrowed amount.
Seek Free Money: Prioritize scholarships and grants, which don't require repayment.
Know Your Loan Terms: Understand the interest rates, repayment terms, and any fees of your chosen loans.
Consider Future Earnings: Use tools like the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook to estimate potential post-graduation income.
Plan for Repayment: Start planning early, even making small interest payments during college.
Build Credit: Use private loans as an opportunity to build a good credit score.
Stay Informed: Keep track of your loans and understand your repayment options, seeking help from your lender if needed.