With education expenses outpacing inflation for years, most Americans know that paying for college (or private K-12 schooling, or graduate school) isn’t always simple. Between 529s, FAFSAs, private student loans and more, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But just like pursuing any other financial goal, the keys to effective education saving are careful planning and fully understanding your options.

For parents, grandparents, or adults considering going back to school themselves, this episode breaks down the basics of how to save, how to reduce the “sticker price” for your school of choice and — if you need to — how to navigate taking out student loans. Thomas Walsh, CFP®, walks listeners through everything they need to know. He also suggests some strategies for maximizing your educational dollar. Thomas and host Amy Laburda cover how to choose when loans make sense, the benefits of work-study programs, FAFSA basics and more.