College is a place you can go after high school to help you get your dream job. You could even call it 13th grade. You can start preparing for college now by getting good grades. When you tell your parents and teachers you want to go to college, they can help you pick out classes you will need.

There are different types of colleges you can attend. Some of the different colleges include:
1. Public or private four-year colleges and universities
2. Two-year community colleges
3. Business schools
4. Proprietary schools
5. Vocational-technical schools

The type of school you go to depends on what kind of job you want to have. Some schools are also more expensive than others. Adults can help you find the school that's right for you.

After grade school, you will go to middle school or junior high, and then on to high school. The government in the U.S. provides this education for free to everyone. But if you want to go to college you have to pay for it.

College can be expensive. The average public or state college costs about $11,000 per year. The average private college costs about $25,000 per year. You’ll need money to pay for books, tuition, housing and food. Many students worry that they won't be able to afford college. But there’s good news, high schools and colleges have people that can help you find FREE MONEY for college! Free money comes in the form of “financial aid.”

Financial aid can include:
1. Grants and Scholarships
2. Income-Tax Credits
3. Work Opportunities
4. Loans

Your parents may also be able to help you with money they have been saving in the bank. If you‘re a money savvy kid you might even be able to use some of the money you have been saving for your long-term goals.

Click here to learn more about money for college.

For brochures and publications about financial aid click here.