Graduating With A Debt Burden

Debt at graduation for bachelor's degree recipients. Data for 2008-11 are projections

Advice from financial aid expert Mark Kantrowitz.

Save before going to college.

Apply for scholarships.

Apply for federal loans before applying for private loans — they're cheaper.

Think hard about your major. If you don't expect your starting salary after graduation to match what you borrowed, consider a less expensive college.

Double major in a more lucrative field.

Pay interest while you're in school.