The article outlines five strategies to assist students in planning for college expenses, emphasizing proactive financial management amid challenges such as delays in financial aid processing and rising costs. Justin Draeger, president and CEO of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA), provides guidance focused on budgeting, emergency preparedness, part-time employment, responsible borrowing, and financial literacy. The first tip emphasizes creating a detailed budget by calculating monthly income, financial aid awards, and expenses, including education-related costs and living essentials like rent and transportation. Tracking spending helps identify areas to reduce costs and maintain financial discipline. The second recommendation highlights the importance of saving for unexpected expenses—such as medical bills or car repairs—that could disrupt academic plans. Students are advised to set aside funds regularly and explore institutional emergency aid programs or grants offered by financial aid offices. Third, the article advocates for part-time employment through federal or institutional work-study programs, which provide flexible on- or off-campus jobs for eligible students. These positions can supplement financial aid and enhance campus engagement while offsetting some educational costs. The fourth tip urges minimizing student loan debt by borrowing only what is necessary, understanding interest rates, and selecting repayment plans aligned with future financial capacity. Income-driven repayment options are noted as alternatives to the standard 10-year plan for those facing budget constraints post-graduation. Finally, the article stresses the value of financial literacy resources, including campus workshops, counseling services, and online tools, to inform decisions about budgeting, investing, and debt management. Students are encouraged to consult financial aid offices for personalized guidance on navigating aid options and unexpected financial challenges. The article frames these strategies within the context of a turbulent year for financial aid access, marked by delays in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) rollout and uncertainty about award notifications. Despite these hurdles, the outlined steps aim to empower students to manage costs effectively, reduce reliance on loans, and build long-term financial stability. The conclusion underscores the significance of early planning, thorough exploration of aid opportunities, and continuous engagement with institutional resources to support academic and financial success.