College is exciting. No doubt about it. Acceptance letters, campus tours, dreaming about the future. It is all fun. But then reality sets in. The cost.

Every school publishes tuition. But that number is only part of the story. Between financial aid, housing, meal plans, books, fees, and travel, the actual cost can look very different. This is why families need to be clear about what parents will cover and what will fall on the student.

And here is where perspective matters. If your son or daughter (or grandchild) is looking at a $30,000 loan, what does that really mean? Break it down into a monthly payment after graduation. Show them what will come out of their paycheck every month. Suddenly the number feels more real. And while it may be their “dream school,” it is worth asking the harder question. Does the school align with their major and career goals? Or is it just the name and the pedigree that is driving the decision?

One other thing. Once the acceptance letters arrive, do not be afraid to write to the financial aid office at the school that is truly the first choice. Tell them. Ask for a review. Sometimes that simple step leads to more aid. Colleges often have flexibility, but they rarely offer more unless you ask.

This is an emotional time. Big decisions. Big dreams. But the financial side has to stay front and center. That is what will make the long-term outcome much stronger.