College costs are climbing fast, and for many parents, the numbers can feel overwhelming. On Morning Air, John Morales spoke with Catholic financial coach Jonathan Teixeira about practical ways families can prepare for higher education without drowning in debt.

Jonathan explained that the real cost of college goes far beyond tuition. Families must also factor in room and board, books, travel, and countless hidden expenses. “There’s more than just the so-called sticker price,” he said, noting that some private universities now cost as much as $80,000 a year.

Still, Jonathan encouraged parents not to panic. Instead, he urged families to carefully weigh whether a particular school is truly the right fit for their child. Community colleges, in-state universities, and trade programs can often provide strong opportunities at a fraction of the cost.

One of the biggest mistakes families make, he said, is skipping the FAFSA financial aid application because they assume they earn too much money. Jonathan shared a staggering statistic: more than $4 billion in Pell Grants went unclaimed simply because students never applied. “You don’t get any money if you don’t ask for any,” he said.

Scholarships are another overlooked resource. Jonathan stressed that many scholarships are not tied to academics or athletics. Local organizations, churches, and community groups often offer smaller awards that can quickly add up. He encouraged students to treat scholarship applications like a part-time job, explaining that the payoff can far exceed an ordinary summer job.

Most importantly, Jonathan reminded parents not to sacrifice their own financial stability trying to fund every dollar of their child’s education. Supporting a child does not always mean writing a large check. Sometimes the greatest gift parents can offer is wisdom, guidance, and thoughtful decision-making rooted in faith and prudence.

His advice was both practical and hopeful: families do not need to fear the college process. With careful planning, honest conversations, and smart financial choices, parents can help their children pursue their vocation without creating lifelong financial burdens.

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