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News and tips about student loans, 529 plans and career advice

529 prepaid tuition plans at risk

These plans let you buy tuition credits in advance. But they're not as risk-free as widely believed.

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State-sponsored savings plans aren't all alike, and you're not stuck with your state's plans.
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How do I open a 529?
A step-by-step guide to opening a 529 college savings account.
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Federal loans and grants
Uncle Sam offers a number of programs to help pay for higher education, from Pell Grants to Perkins Loans.
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Grads snare alumni perks
Earning your college degree costs you thousands. Doesn't your alma mater owe you a little in return?
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Brave new ways to stretch a dollar
College Finance News This Week»
Child-smart savings plans
Three key savings vehicles allow parents to safely put away money for their children's future.
3 ways to get 529 money
Here's how you can receive your 529 plan money, and which approach is best for you.
Volunteer for college cash
National service organizations are expanding to help students pay for college. Are they worth it?
4 tips for student debt
College graduates who fall behind on student loans can turn to these tips to get back on track.
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Interest Rate Roundup
See rates from our survey of CDs, mortgages, home equity products, auto loans and credit cards.

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Rates flat as buyers wait
Mortgage rates were unchanged as many wait to see if the tax credit will be extended.

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Student loans
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About this index
Student Loan Averages
Product Rate +/- Last week
Stafford Loan Rate-in school 6.80%
6.80%
Stafford Loan Rate-after school 6.80%
6.80%
Plus Loan Rate 8.50%
8.50%
30K FICO-based Home Equity Loan 8.66%
8.85%
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ByJoseph Hurley
College Money Guru»
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The IRS says certain fees may be counted under a 529 plan, but health premiums aren't among them.
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