There’s no perfect way to pay for college. What matters is your awareness—that is, knowing your options, understanding the tradeoffs, and making choices that match your situation. Education is an investment in yourself, and careful planning can help you protect both your goals and your peace of mind.

Knowing your risk tolerance doesn’t specify what to invest in, but it provides a helpful starting point. Once you understand what level of risk feels right, you can work with a financial professional to create an investment plan that aligns with your goals and gives you peace of mind.