7. Don't forget PLUS Loans
Parents of undergraduate students should strongly consider PLUS (parent loans) as an alternative to private loans. PLUS Loans are available through the Ford Direct Loans. Parents may be reluctant to add to their debt, but even a small amount of additional borrowing can save the future graduate substantially.
Aim to balance the borrowing between the parent and student. Graduate and professional students can (and should) also borrow PLUS instead of private student loans.