top of page
  • Writer's pictureJim Carlson

Empowering Your College Journey: A 3-Step Process to Graduate with Financial Confidence


College Planning

The dream of a college education can quickly turn into a financial nightmare. Recent graduates, burdened with enormous student loans, find themselves postponing life's milestones such as buying a home or starting a family.


At Carlson Planning, we believe in transforming this narrative. We offer a proactive approach to college financing that aligns with your life goals and financial well-being, ensuring that the pursuit of higher education doesn't become a lifelong financial burden.


Understanding the College Financing Dilemma

Emotional decisions about college often overshadow the long-term financial implications. The excitement of acceptance letters and campus visits can lead to overlooking the true costs and potential debt. The result? A generation overburdened with easily attainable but crippling education loans.


At Carlson Planning, we strive to enlighten and guide families, turning uninformed decisions into strategic investments in education. We help you see beyond the immediate allure and make choices that align with your financial future.


College Financing: A Home-Buying Approach


Imagine if financing a college education was as transparent and structured as buying a home. With college costs often rivaling home prices, shouldn't there be a similar pre-approval process?


The escalating cost of education calls for a proactive, informed approach.


It's time to remove the emotion and become a savvy buyer of a college education. Just as you would consult with a real estate agent and mortgage lender, we provide expert guidance to navigate the complexities of college financing.


Your 3-Step Guide to Financially Sound College Choices

We at Carlson Planning are committed to empowering you with the knowledge and tools needed for financial success. Here's our tailored 3-step process:


  • Determine the Real Cost: Assess the true out-of-pocket cost after scholarships and grants. Use the school's "Net Cost Calculator" to gauge your eligibility. Consider additional expenses like books, housing, and transportation.

  • Evaluate Your Financial Capability: Identify what you can afford from savings and cash flow. Plan wisely, especially if you have multiple children. Understand the long-term impact on retirement and other financial goals.

  • Strategize Loan Requirements: Estimate loans and create a repayment schedule. Align loans with expected first-year earnings to avoid overburdening debt. Explore federal and private loan options, understanding interest rates and terms.


Carlson Planning: Your Partner in Financial Empowerment

Education planning is a significant life transition, and we're here to guide you every step of the way. Our life events-based approach, detailed financial health assessment, and tailored investment management ensure that your financial plan evolves with you. We're more than just numbers; we're about empowering you to live a fulfilling life. As a Fiduciary, we prioritize your needs, understanding your goals, and crafting strategies that resonate with you.




 

Informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult with a qualified professional for advice concerning your individual situation.

Investment Risks: Investing involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Always consider your risk tolerance and investment objectives before making investment decisions.

Educational Planning: The information provided in this post regarding educational planning and financing is a general guideline. Individual circumstances may vary, and it is advisable to consult with a financial planner or educational consultant to understand your specific needs.

Third-Party Links: Any links to third-party websites are provided for convenience and informational purposes only. Carlson Planning Company does not endorse or control the content of linked third-party sites.

Fiduciary Responsibility: As a Fiduciary, Carlson Planning Company acts in the best interests of its clients. However, this blog post does not create a fiduciary relationship, and readers should seek personalized advice from a financial professional.

bottom of page