<p>I think it’s important to tell your kids what you will be providing right off the bat. My mom told me from freshman year (of high school) that she would provide me with a safe, reliable car with insurance; a roof over my head if I chose to commute; and food if I chose to commute. She made it very clear that she would not be paying a cent of my tuition.</p>
<p>Because I was on reduced lunch my Junior year, I was able to apply to all of my colleges for free, which was extremely helpful (I saved about $400 there, between sending scores - AP and SAT - and application fees). I turned college visits into road trips with my friends (who were serious about it and helped me, since they’re already in college. We would then visit friends in the area and go out for a cheap dinner or something to make it more fun. :))</p>
<p>I am attending Bentley University this Fall, full ride, including room & board. I received about $40,000 outside scholarships, all merit, and $34,300 annual merit from my school. I’m a tad short each year (maybe up to $5,000) but I cover that with need-based aid. Living at Bentley costs about $50,000 a year.</p>
<p>It is possible to go without mass debt. The main thing is for your kid to understand what will be expected so that he or she can save, apply to scholarships, find co-ops, etc.</p>