The admissions and financial aid process is daunting for many families, but especially for those with no previous college experience. Families can get help from a number of sources. This web site is a great place to start. Libraries and high school guidance offices offer resources and assistance. In addition, many communities have a federally funded Educational Opportunity Center with trained counselors to help students and parents through the admissions and financial aid process.
Community colleges offer only vocational education.
Community colleges provide a wide range of educational options, all at a low cost to students. In addition to career and technical education, community colleges offer the first two years of academic course work to transfer to a four-year institution. They also help workers upgrade their skills and provide courses for lifelong learning and personal enrichment. Open admissions, nearby locations, a wide array of courses, flexible class schedules, and low tuition prices make community colleges readily accessible to everyone. Colleges charge whatever they want - they've got a monopoly.