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A College Degree Pays ~ Paying for it is challenging

Sponsored Content by Diana Jansen, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company

By Diana Jansen, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company April 23, 2015
As parents, we understand the value of obtaining a college education in today’s competitive workforce. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a typical college graduate earned $11,749 in the last three months of 2011, nearly three times more than a high school dropout’s salary of $4,026. And for most with graduate degrees, the median earnings were $15,733 for the same period.1

But, even though a college diploma can pave the way to greater advancement and earnings potential, paying for it still remains a challenge for most American families. A recent Christian Science Monitor article reports the average tuition for a public, four-year state school rose 5% in 2012 to $8,655 per year.2 And, at private institutions, students need to shell out a staggering $39,518 per year for tuition, fees, and room and board. All told, in the past five years, tuition costs for private schools have increased 13% beyond overall inflation.2

Even as college tuition and other costs reach unprecedented levels, there are still plenty of options available to help ease the financial burden. Look into available state and university scholarships, financial aid packages, special college savings plans, and low-cost loans.

Here are some steps you can take to make the whole process as easy and as painless as possible.

•    Improve your credit score. Establishing good credit can help you secure the low-cost loans you may need—and save thousands of dollars.

•    Plan for the unexpected. Estate planning and the right kinds of insurance will help protect against the derailment of your child's college plans.

•    Save smart and early. Gain a significant advantage and maximize your resources by choosing the college-savings plan that’s right for you.

•    Ask relatives to share the responsibility. Talk to grandparents and other relatives about contributing money to your college fund.

•    Encourage your children to save. Teach your kids to start saving for college early by putting aside a portion of their monetary gifts.

College is a major investment in your child’s future. And, like any investment, it is wise to do as much early preparation and research as possible. It may also be beneficial to consult an experienced financial professional who can advise you based on the specifics of your situation.


This educational third-party article is being provided as a courtesy by Diana Jansen, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company. To learn more about the information or topics discussed, please contact Diana at 303-478-3189.

Other Advertorial from Diana Jansen, Agent, New York Life:
Being Prepared is Smart. Protect the Ones You Love
Live Life with Theirs in Mind: You can't control the future

This article was paid for and sponsored by Diana Plasha, Financial Services Professional, Licenced Agent, New York Life Insurance Company.

1The Wall Street Journal, “College Grads Earn Nearly Three Times More Than High School Dropouts,” Neil Shah, April 2, 2013.
2The Christian Science Monitor, “College Costs Keep Rising Faster than Inflation, Survey Says,” Philip Elliott, Associated Press, August 13, 2013.