By Lindsey Kundel, Editor in Chief, InGenius Prep
The class of 2025 faces the most unpredictable tuition landscape in decades. October is a pivotal month for families navigating the college admissions process. While some students are finalizing Early Decision or Early Action applications, many are turning their attention to upcoming Regular Decision deadlines. No matter where you are in the process, one question stands out: How do we pay for college in 2025?
This month’s book recommendations focus on books that bring clarity to the financial side of higher education — from understanding the true costs to creating a strategy that balances opportunity and affordability.
The Price You Pay for College — Ron Lieber
“No consumer decision inspires more confusion and emotion than the question of what to pay for college.” — Ron Lieber.
Ron Lieber, a personal finance columnist for The New York Times, tackles one of the toughest questions parents face: Is college worth the cost, and how do you decide? This book offers practical advice and real-life family stories, breaking down the often-overwhelming financial aid process into manageable steps. Key takeaway: It helps families understand the true costs of college and provides actionable steps for evaluating affordability.
For example, the average net price at private colleges in the United States now hovers around $33,000 per year, highlighting the importance of carefully assessing long-term financial commitments. On the other hand, public colleges offer a different financial picture, with average net prices around $20,000 per year. This diversity in costs underscores the importance of families exploring the full range of college options to make well-informed financial decisions.
Why it matters now: As families finalize Regular Decision lists, it’s essential to think about value as much as prestige. Lieber reminds us that “fit” includes financial sustainability — not just admissions odds.
I strongly encourage parents to dip into this book before filling out the FAFSA or CSS Profile. It reframes the conversation around what families are truly investing in, beyond just tuition numbers.
Paying for College Without Going Broke — Kalman Chany
“The most important thing is to figure out their chances of getting need-based financial aid.” — Kalman Chany.
Chany’s long-standing guide, often referred to as the “financial aid bible,” demystifies the formulas schools use to calculate aid, clarifies how assets and income are evaluated, and provides practical steps families can take to qualify for more assistance. The core message has remained consistent through updates: start early, plan ahead, and take charge of the financial aid process to maximize your eligibility.
To translate planning into action, consider these first steps: 1) Pull last year’s tax return, 2) Estimate your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) today. You can estimate your EFC using online calculators available on financial aid websites, which can provide a rough idea of what your family might be expected to contribute based on your financial situation. (Expected Family Contribution (EFC) Calculator, n.d.)
Why it matters now: October is FAFSA launch month. For students applying through Regular Decision, filing early and accurately can significantly impact aid outcomes. Chany’s advice — to start by realistically assessing your eligibility for need-based aid — remains a cornerstone for smart planning.
This is a book I recommend parents keep close at hand. Even a quick skim through the sections on family finances and aid formulas can demystify what colleges will really expect you to pay.
Debt-Free U — Zac Bissonnette
“Debt always adds risk to your life, and student-loan debt may be the riskiest form of debt that you can have because you can’t discharge it in bankruptcy.” — Zac Bissonnette.
Written with a sharp, sometimes contrarian tone, Bissonnette argues that students don’t need to take on massive debt to get a great education. He challenges assumptions about ‘dream schools’. He insists that thoughtful choices, like considering in-state public options or merit aid opportunities, can lead to equally successful outcomes without the financial strain.
For instance, consider one student who chose a local state school over a private one. Three years after graduating, she leads a successful marketing team and has no student debt holding her back. Key takeaway: It encourages prioritizing affordable choices over prestige to limit debt.
Why it matters now: As Regular Decision choices expand, it’s easy to get caught up in rankings and reputations. This book serves as a reminder to consider both long-term financial health and academic fit.
While I don’t agree with all of Bissonnette’s conclusions, I do appreciate the way he pushes families to rethink what success looks like. As someone with degrees from Ivy League institutions and major public universities, I find his reminders important, especially for some families who are stuck on Top 30 destinations without considering fit. It’s a refreshing counterpoint in a process that too often feels defined by brand names.
Closing Thoughts
Applying to college is both an academic and a financial decision. The choices made this fall, such as where to apply, what aid forms to file, and which schools are worth the cost, will shape not just admissions outcomes but family finances for years. These three books offer essential perspectives: one humanizes the college decision-making process, one clarifies financial aid, and one challenges assumptions about student debt. Reading them can help families make more informed, affordable choices for 2025.
After reading, I encourage families to develop a personalized action plan that reflects their unique priorities and financial situation. This could begin with a family discussion to evaluate what matters most—whether it’s minimizing debt, maximizing educational opportunities, or striking a balance between the two. Consider setting clear goals and criteria to guide your college decision-making process, and revisit them regularly to ensure they remain aligned with your circumstances.
And remember that InGenius Prep is always here to help guide your family in all things related to the college application process, including financial considerations that will impact you and your student for years to come. Book your free consultation with us today so that we can help you navigate the financial side of college.