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The Hidden Cost of College –

What Families Aren’t Being Told

85% of Students Borrow Money for College – But Are They Borrowing Smart?

Most families don’t realize that where a student goes to college can cost them thousands more than necessary. With tuition prices soaring and financial aid shrinking, students are taking on crippling debt—often without understanding their options.


As a counselor, you play a key role in guiding students toward affordable choices that won’t burden them with unnecessary loans. But are families getting the right information?

What’s Driving the Over-Borrowing Trend?

  • :mortar_board:The Prestige Trap 

    Families believe that name-brand schools automatically lead to better jobs, but data shows internships, networking, & skills matter more than the school’s ranking.

  • :moneybag: The Hidden Cost

    The true cost of attendance goes far beyond tuition. Many families don’t consider housing, fees, and lost income from unpaid internships.

  • :school: The Financial Aid Illusion

    Just because a student qualifies for aid doesn’t mean it covers enough. Too many families assume financial aid packages are generous when in reality, they include loans that must be repaid.
The Alarming Reality Why College Costs So Much (3)

The Reality Check: Cost vs. Return on Investment


Choosing a college should be treated like a financial investment, not just an emotional decision. A degree from a well-known school does not guarantee financial success—but graduating with less debt does give students more freedom.

:mag: What Happens When Students Borrow Less?

:white_check_mark: They have more career flexibility and don’t feel pressured to take the highest-paying job just to cover loan payments.
:white_check_mark: They can afford to buy homes, start businesses, and invest in their futures sooner.
:white_check_mark: They avoid the stress of long-term debt, which delays financial milestones like marriage, home ownership, and retirement savings.

:bulb: Free Resource to Share:

College Budget

Download to:

  • Stay on the Same Page: The worksheet shows exactly how much the family can contribute toward college and identifies any funding gaps, ensuring everyone understands what’s affordable and how much, if anything, might need to be borrowed.
  • Plan for All Four Years: It projects costs not just for the first year but for the entire college journey, helping families avoid surprises down the road.
  • Empower Decision-Making:  The worksheet provides clarity on what the family can realistically afford, empowering them to choose a college that fits both their academic goals and their budget

Join the Conversation!

We host Counselor Coffee Talk sessions where we break down: 

:white_check_mark: How to help students make financially smart college choicess

:white_check_mark: The myths around prestige and school rankings

:white_check_mark: Real strategies for reducing student loan debt

Sign up below to get access to upcoming sessions, our newsletter, and valuable resources!

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