The federal loans are readily available for students AND their parents.

Students should talk with their college financial aid offices before they do lots of research online. Keep communication open with your aid office! They are engaged in this issue and will be able to best assist you in researching (and understanding!) the options.

Simpletuition.com offers a searchable database that matches students with private and federal lenders.

Consider checking out sites like this when you’re ready to apply.

The economy is shriking and the financial bond market has essentially collapsed putting all nonprofit lenders in a similar position as MEFA. I understand their issues, but didn’t want families to feel helpless.

Talk with your financial aid counselor.