With college costs continuing to rise at an alarming rate, more and more parents and students are finding that the funds they've earmarked for college are coming up short. New from the education experts at U.S. News & World Report comes the complete guide to understanding the college financing maze and solving the problem of how to pay for it all.

What College Really Costs explains the ins and outs of the myriad higher education financing vehicles and reveals the creative ways people are reducing their tuition bills. In clear language and with a focus on practical information parents can use, the education experts at America's most reputed college evaluator explain:

-The basics of the college financial aid process

-The truth about where the free money is and how to nab that sought-after scholarship

-Long-term financing strategies, including tax-advantaged savings accounts (529s), prepaid tuition plans and more

-Last-minute strategies for parents and students

-Plus full appendices listing the key details of every state's 529 savings plan and indices showing you which schools offer the best value and the most free money—and where students graduate with the least debt burden