List of colleges known for graduating students with little to no debt?

I'm worried about student loans and I’ve read about colleges that help students graduate with less debt. Does anyone have a list or know of any colleges famed for their financial aid packages or low tuition costs that lead to minimal debt for their grads?

Absolutely, it's wise to be mindful of student loan debt. A number of colleges are well-known for offering generous financial aid packages.

Schools like Princeton, Harvard, and Yale are notorious for having strong endowments, which allows them to offer substantial need-based aid, often with no-loan policies for families with certain incomes. Additionally, public institutions such as The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and University of California schools have been praised for affordable tuition and good financial aid for in-state students. On the other side of the spectrum, schools such as Berea College not only offer significant aid but also work programs to offset costs.

When searching, look at each school's financial aid webpage to see their policies on loans versus grants. Also, be cautious of schools that have high sticker prices but also high average financial aid packages – they can sometimes still result in lower overall debt. Don't forget to use each college's Net Price Calculator to get a personalized estimate of what you might pay after financial aid. This estimate is invaluable in your planning and can help you avoid unwanted surprises after you have enrolled.

Lastly, consider applying to colleges where your academic profile is strong compared to their average admitted student, as that could potentially increase your merit aid opportunities, thus reducing the need for loans.