Many seniors in high school are just starting to hear about their admissions to college and universities around the country. It’s an exciting time for many families but also a time of significant worry when it comes to financing that higher education.

For those who have not been guaranteed a full scholarship to their choice of school or who have not been able to put away enough cash in a college savings plan, this is the time to get prepared to find financing.

Experts advise families start now to take the necessary steps for financing the costs of higher education. Here are some guidelines to make the most of the time left:

Start Applying
Too many people are under the false notion they do not qualify for different types of financial aid. There are many scholarships and grants available from local resources like the government on both state and federal levels. They are also available from the colleges being attended.

Get Ready
The FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is available online at fafsa.ed.gov. Representative say students and families should begin applying by mid-February if this is their first year in college. For returning students, the form should be received in the office by early March. It is advisable to wait until after tax returns for the previous year have been completed and filed so that filling out the FAFSA form is more accurate. Experts also encourage families to complete the form on their own and not seek out special consultant services for help. The fees for help can be exorbitant and unnecessary. The people at FAFSA can assist with the application process for free. Acceptance for FAFSA will likely be available by the end of March so families will know relatively early where they stand and how much they are eligible to receive.

Loans Should Be An Option
Many families are only looking at free scholarships and grants but experts say loans are still a good way to finance higher education. Apply for loan amounts that are not outrageous so they can feasibly be repaid after graduation.

Student Involvement
There are many colleges and universities that offer on-campus working opportunities. Students can find an on-campus job to earn money towards their education and expenses. It is also a good way to socialize in a new environment. Caution should be directed towards off-campus employment because it has been shown to cause distractions and other problems. During busy times like exams and holidays, on-campus employers are sympathetic to a student’s studies and are more apt to being flexible. The same is not always true of off-campus employers.