Although they require some research, investing in mutual funds puts a professional in charge of your savings so that you don't have to watch the markets daily. A little homework can go a long way. There are new programs to serve parents struggling to save college money, but consider them carefully, because saving successfully in these programs can hurt your chances of getting financial aid. The approval process is forgiving for college loans. Late payments on your credit record aren't the automatic grounds for refusal of a college loan that they might be for a mortgage.
Tax breaks are as good as grants.
Lenders can be flexible when it's time to repay. There are still ways to cut your costs after you graduate and it's time to repay your loans. Many lenders reward responsible borrowers with lower rates that save you money. The federal government offers relief for taxpayers with student loans. During the first five years that you are repaying, you can deduct some of the interest that you pay, just as you can with mortgage interest.