Work with your school counselor, but don't stop there. Do your own research, and make sure you and your student take the steps necessary for a successful college search. Every parent and their student has been saving and planning for college for years. Very few families save in advance. Remember, if you have not started saving, it is never too late.
Saving is the least expensive way to pay for college.
However, financial aid programs at colleges and other possible sources can be effective in assisting you in meeting the cost of college. You have to be really smart to go to college. There is a college for everyone who is willing to study and put forth the effort to graduate. Check that the college your student attends offers a good possibility of changing majors without the need to change schools. Most students get rejected by the college of their choice.