I'm heading to college

Create StudentAid.gov accounts for you and a parent, file as early as you can, and list every school you're considering.

Subtract only grants and scholarships from the full cost to find what you'll really pay. Loans are not discounts.

Finding scholarships is free. Anyone charging a fee or guaranteeing an award is a red flag.

Borrow federal before private, subsidized before unsubsidized, and only what your aid offer leaves uncovered.

Bring ID and your Social Security number, choose an account with no monthly fee, and opt out of overdraft coverage.

Start with a secured or student card, use under 30% of the limit, and set autopay so you never miss a payment.

Start from monthly take-home pay. Subtract fixed bills, a share of yearly costs, savings, then everyday spending. Below zero? Cut flexible spending first.

In week one, agree on sleep, noise, guests, cleaning, food and money and write it down. Raise problems within 48 to 72 hours.

Read the care label, sort by color and fabric, treat stains first, and check for stains before the dryer sets them.

Compare unit prices on the shelf tag, shop from a list, and cook five cheap dinners from shared staples at $1.67 to $3.09 a serving.

Most colleges have a counseling center, often free or covered by fees and confidential. You don't need a crisis to book a first appointment.

Consent is a clear, freely given, ongoing yes from someone of legal age who is sober, alert and not pressured.

Alcohol is the most common drug used under 21. If someone can't wake up or is breathing slowly, call 911.

Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org, any time, for yourself or someone you're worried about.