Shows how schools and the U.S. Department of Education help students and their families gather information and make sound choices about their investment in postsecondary education.

Prepares an FAA to counsel students and families about researching education quality, academic requirements, available financial aid, and application procedures at postsecondary schools.

Describes the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA);  explains what the FAFSA is used for, filing methods and deadlines, source documents needed, and how to complete the FAFSA;  and includes advice for students on keeping a file of financial aid records.