A cynic is a man who knows the price of everything but the value of nothing.-O.Wilde

Just a quick and unexciting word about financial aid, as I get these questions now and then. In general, if you've been accepted at an institution, you will be allowed to accumulate the debt to attend. If possible and practical, think ahead a year and file your taxes as an independent rather than a dependent on your parents' taxes, as this may mean that your financial situation, rather than that of your parents, will be considered in the financial aid formula. However, be careful to consider the overall (for both you and your parents) tax, healthcare, insurance, etc., consequences. Similarly, if feasible, you might consider establishing residence in the state of a public institution.

Whatever your financial obligation, you should order your thinking to consider scholarships/grants, then government loans, then private loans. For all of these sources your search should begin at the financial aid office. Ideally, you should make an appointment to speak with a financial aid officer about your options (often summer is a good time to do so when they're less busy). Before doing so, go online and/or buy one of the several publications about paying for college and learn about the scholarships available, what "Pell" and "Stafford" mean, etc. Don't do anything until you meet with the financial aid folks, though. They're the experts and can counsel you appropriately. Also, your financial aid office is likely to have links to or at least knowledge of various student loan programs. And don't forget options like work/study (or, if a graduate student, think "assistantship," which may waive tuition, provide additional money, and perhaps gain significant experience or connections with faculty). Remember, free money first, then government loans, then private loans, but of course you will likely have a part-time job in there somewhere as well. Once you get the options from the financial aid office, take some time to consider/discuss the information, then jump into debt if need be. Go to the best college you can. You'll pay the loans off in a few years; the benefits of the best school will be with you forever.