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These challenges can be even greater for private-school teachers, according to Cindy Chanin, the founder of a college-consulting and tutoring business, who has worked with hundreds of teachers and administrators in elite schools in Los Angeles and New York City. Some private-school parents are paying $50,000 a year (or more) for their child’s education. Because they’re spending so much, many tend to focus on the outcomes and want a greater say in elements as varied as whether their child gets extra time on a project and how a field trip is run, Chanin told me. She said the teachers she speaks with are completely overwhelmed.

Just make sure you choose a co-signer with a high credit score. As Cindy Chanin, founder and director of Rainbow EDU Consulting & Tutoring explains, "If the co-signer has a very strong credit rating, the loan terms may be even more favorable than if the student had gotten the loan from the government."

Cindy Chanin of Rainbow EDU Consulting & Tutoring says applying for scholarships at what might seem like the eleventh-hour can be a daunting experience, but it’s certainly not impossible.

“Starting now enables us to have a broader perspective as taking smaller steps today, rather than panicking and trying to take ginormous leaps later, leads to less anxiety, less burnout and more fulfillment.”

“When Ivies make up their incoming freshmen classes, they’re aiming for a diverse ensemble — a dynamic cast of characters. They’re not only looking for well-rounded students but also for angular students — students who can fill a specific niche or role as part of this season’s curated student body,” said Cindy Chanin.

“Some schools offer aid based on a first come, first served basis, so it’s important to check each school’s website and to submit the FAFSA as early as possible."

Higher education expert Cindy Chanin of Rainbow EDU Consulting & Tutoring says that many colleges and universities set their cut-off dates for filling out the FAFSA long before June 30th in the year of attendance, but that they may be willing to work with you if you contact your school's financial aid office ASAP.

It's best to exhaust your federal student loan options before turning to private student loans. As noted by Cindy Chanin, founder and director at Rainbow EDU Consulting & Tutoring.

"Schools can suspend financial aid under certain circumstances, though specific reasons for suspension vary depending on the institution and its policies," says Cindy Chanin, founder of Rainbow EDU Consulting & Tutoring, which offers college admissions guidance.

Don’t wait to begin applying for scholarships. Cindy Chanin, education expert and founder of Rainbow EDU Consulting & Tutoring, recommends combing through databases like scholarships.com to find potential scholarships.