College is a big deal, and it's never too soon to start planning for it. By the time students reach sophomore year of high school, they should be thinking about tests, applications, and how to pay for their future education.

High schools usually have guidance counselors to help, but they can be busy and might not have all the resources kids need. That's where private college counselors can step in, but they come at a cost.

Tests like the PSAT and SAT are important for scholarships and can be taken in 10th and 11th grades. Practicing for these tests can boost scores and make students more competitive.

Saving for college is tough, and many families struggle. But there are options like 529 College Savings Plans and scholarships to help. Websites like FinAid.org and Scholarships.com can guide students and parents through the process.

When it comes to choosing a college, focus on value, not just prestige. Washington Monthly's "Best Bang for the Buck" ranking can help families find schools that offer a great education without breaking the bank.

Starting college planning early is key. It's a big investment, but with the right planning, it can pay off in the long run.

Planning for College: Start Early, Think Smart

Casio fx-55 Plus Fraction Calculator (⭐ 4.7): This calculator is the perfect sidekick for grades 5-7 students, assisting them in tackling common calculations with fractions and integers. As one reviewer—a teacher—raves, 'I adore the display style and the fraction features! It's simple yet brimming with features and covers everything we need and then some!' 

Scientific Calculators
Texas Instruments TI-30XS MultiView Scientific Calculator (⭐ 4.8): This calculator shines in executing basic calculations and advanced functions such as stacked fractions, exponents, and exact square roots. It's approved for major exams like the SAT, ACT, GED, and AP exams.

Graphing Calculators
Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE Graphing Calculator: The TI-84 graphing calculator receives a vibrant makeover with the Plus model, offering multiple plotting options, color-coding, and grid lines for a breeze reading experience. It's approved for the PSAT, SAT, ACT, and IB exams.

- Casio FX-9750Glll Graphing Calculator: This cost-effective Casio model masters graphing rectangular, polar, and parametric functions and inequalities. It's suitable for math, science, and finance classes and offers Python Programming language and spreadsheet capabilities.