The views expressed in Economy Matters are not necessarily those of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta or the Federal Reserve System.
Editor's note: Throughout Economy Matters, "Southeast" refers to the six states that, in whole or in part, make up the Sixth Federal Reserve District: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
Financial Tips from the Atlanta Fed: Postsecondary Education and Financial Aid
Fall signals the start of the school year, and for some people, the time to begin pursuing postsecondary education. Use these resources to consider college and career options as well as ways to finance your postsecondary education.
- Are you trying to determine which career may be best for you? Start by exploring the opportunity occupations available in your area, career opportunities in various industries, and potential jobs based on your interests.
- If you plan to pursue postsecondary education, review what you'll need to know about applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It can make you eligible for state or federal student loans and grants or financial aid from the postsecondary institution you wish to attend. Learn about other financial aid that may be available to you.
- If you are taking out student loans, one rule of thumb is you should take no more in total loans than you would make in the first year of the job for which you are pursuing training. There is generally a connection between education level and earnings; understand the number of years to break even on your college investment.
- Whether you're a recent college graduate or you're still in school, if you have student loans, take time to understand how to manage student loan repayment.