And now comes the big question -- where will the money come from? Chances are, the solution won't be just one scholarship or loan. You could end up needing a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study programs and loans to pay for college.

So where do you start?

• Don't assume borrowing is the only solution. Before you begin searching for loan information, search for scholarships. And you can start right here at SunTrust.
  
  
• You also have to figure out exactly how much money you'll need. Don't worry our financial aid tools can help.
  
  
• Now, find out what's available in federal loans. Through the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP), you may qualify for loans that provide attractive repayment terms and rates, regardless of your financial need.
  
  
• However, if you can't cover all your tuition needs through federal loans, look into private loan options from SunTrust. Private loans typically carry higher interest rates, but they also offer higher loan limits.
  
  
• Another option is to consider using your property to help out, with SunTrust Equity Loans.