Funding a college education can feel overwhelming, but there are essentially three key sources: savings, current income, and loans. Here’s a plan on how to utilize each effectively.

College expenses are significant. According to the College Board, for the 2020-2021 academic year, average tuition and fees were $10,560 for in-state students at public four-year universities, $27,020 for out-of-state students, $37,650 at private non-profit schools, and $3,770 at two-year public colleges. Keep in mind, these figures don't factor in room and board, which can add significantly to the overall cost.

It's crucial to understand that the sticker price isn't always what you will pay. The actual