Ad break

The cost of college is skyrocketing! To make sure you're not paying those sticker prices, we brought in New York Times 'Your Money' columnist, Ron Lieber. He is also author of 'The Price You Pay for College' and joins the show for a brutally honest walkthrough of what is actually going on behind the scenes. In this episode he breaks down:

• List price vs. cost of attendance
• Why most families don't pay rack rate
• How to read a school's 'Common Data Set'
• Merit vs. need-based aid
• How net price calculators and pre-reads can keep you from falling in love with a school you can't afford

DEALS & DISCOUNTS FROM OUR TRUSTED PARTNERS:

MONARCH MONEY

The modern way to manage money! Monarch will change the way you organize your financial life. Track, budget, plan, and do more with your money – together. Get 50% off the first year using this link and entering code: CATCHINGUP50

ALLOY

The Alloy Market offers a seamless and efficient way to sell your gold, silver, and platinum jewelry, regardless of its condition. They are committed to transparency and fairness, ensuring you get the best possible value for your items. Use this special Link and enter code CUTOFI15 to get a $15 bonus when you sell items over $199 (limited time offer).

For a full list of current deals and discounts from our partners, sponsors and affiliates, click here: catchinguptofi.com/our-partners

SUPPORT THE SHOW

📩 Sign up for our newsletter

🌐 Visit Catching Up to FI website

🔗Connect with us

☕ Like what you hear on Catching Up to FI? Support the show at "Buy Me a Coffee"

🎙️We love hearing from you! Record a Voice Message with your feedback or question Record a Voice Message with your feedback or question

RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

📕 Books by Ron Lieber

🌐 Merit Aid Course (with link to free merit aid checklist)

Ron's New York Times Profile

Niche (for comparing colleges)

Saving For College (Compare 529 Plans)

⏰ Related Episodes

Stop Paying for College and Use These High-Return Scholarship Hacks Instead | Chris Corinthian | 189

Banishing The Burden of Student Loan Debt | Travis Hornsby | 122

The New World of 529 College Savings | Patricia Roberts (Coming Soon)

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show on your podcast player and leave us a rating and review. If you want to watch, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel. This helps others find the show and keeps us creating great content for you!

📌Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.