A guide for students seeking financial aid is presented. Students are advised to begin by assessing their position: what they like to do, what sort of lifestyle they want, whether their parents agree with the career goals, and whether their goals are realistic. Factors to consider in choosing a college are noted and a list of useful publications are included. Information on forms and formulas used by colleges and agencies in their selection processes and the following sources of aid are presented: federal and state government programs, private sources of aid, college aid programs, and family contributions. To help applicants to determine the cost of attending college, information is provided on specific fixed costs, controllable costs, and other related costs. Additionally, consumer strategies for reducing costs, including the following are noted: deferred tuition payment plan, course credit through examinations, initial tuition contract, accelerated academic programs, and summer school. The importance of comparing the financial aid offers received from different schools and of being prepared to assess finances and deal with money problems after enrollment in college is noted. Appended materials include the following: helpful tips, a glossary, forms information guide, addresses of state agencies administering financial aid programs, and a game plan chart for outlining the individual's efforts for each step. (SW)