Now it's time to analyze each school on your list and ask that tough question—how much will it cost. Can you and your family afford it? Now is the time to research the financial aid programs offered by each school.

Evaluating a school's affordability can be discouraging. You need to be realistic about how much you can pay and tailor your list of schools accordingly. Remember you also have many financial aid sources from which to draw.

Start by finding out what it will cost. Next, learn how to ask your school's financial aid office which aid programs are offered.