NATIONWIDE -- Paying for college has always been expensive but with our economy in a downturn, it's much harder to afford a college tuition these days.

College Admissions experts say parents and students are nervous about forking out so much money for school. We spoke with Lynell Engelmyer who helps coach kids and parents on the admissions process. She says parents and students should keep in mind there are people out there to help.

"I think what families really need to do is keep the lines of communication opened with the financial aid office. There are mechanisms in place to help them deal with changes in the family's financial status; it’s on the parents to communicate that if there's a certain situation,” said Engelmyer.

Engelmyer says using federal financing programs tend to be the best options out there, but there are also private loans available as well.

For more information on financing your student's education, check out
www.movingforwardnewsletter.com.