College Prices in 2009-10

There's no escaping the fact that college prices are rising. According to recently released reports from the College Board, most of the students and their families can expect to pay, on average, from $172 to $1,096 more than last year for this year's tuition and fees, depending on the type of college.

There is good news for students. There is more than $168 billion in financial aid available. Despite all of these college price increases, a college education remains an affordable choice for most families.

Sticker Price vs. Affordability

Some of the college price tags you hear about can be quite daunting $35,000 or more for yearly tuition and fees most colleges are more affordable than you might think. For example, did you know that about 53 percent of students attend four year schools with annual tuition and fees below $9,000! After grants are taken into consideration, the net price the average undergraduate pays for a college education is significantly lower than the published tuition and fees. And remember, other forms of financial aid will further reduce the amount your family will actually pay.