 TITLE: 6 Ways to Build Credit Before College CONTENT: 2\\. Have a Plan Before Going to College\n---------------------------------------\nUnderstand credit before setting foot on campus so you can avoid taking on more debt than you need. First, use the results of your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to discuss with your family how much you can afford to pay for college.\nIf your target college doesn't offer enough financial aid to cover the cost, consider taking out federal student loans before turning to private loans. Federal loans come with more benefits and ways to lower your payment in the future if you need to.\nMost important, calculate how much your total monthly student loan bill will be after you graduate. Consider how borrowing for four or more years will affect it, and make a budget before you graduate so you can prepare to pay the bill on your new graduate's salary.\nConsciously weigh the pros and cons of getting a credit card in college too. Your goal when using a card at 18 should be to build credit, not to pay for items you're unable to afford otherwise. Use the strategies below to avoid the potential pitfalls of building up debt in college. END