Presented by Hugo Carvajal & Chris Hernandez | The College Funding Coach®
Based on College Funding Friday – August 8, 2025
For many parents, talking to their kids about money can feel uncomfortable. Add the cost of college to the mix, and it can become overwhelming. But the reality is this: avoiding the money conversation is far more dangerous than having it.
In this College Funding Fridays webinar, advisors Hugo Carvajal and Chris Hernandez tackle one of the most important (and often neglected) parts of the college planning process—how to talk to your kids about what you can realistically afford and how that impacts their choices.
If you’re unsure when or how to have this conversation, you’re not alone—and this guide will help.
Why You Can’t Skip the Conversation
As Hugo emphasized right at the start, “There’s no shortage of amazing colleges, but there is a shortage of amazing financial outcomes when families go in blind.”
Here’s what happens when parents don’t talk to their children about college costs:
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Kids apply to schools that are financially unrealistic
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Parents take on unmanageable debt out of guilt or pressure
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Students are left confused and resentful when options are limited late in the game
The solution? Start early and be honest.
How to Frame the Conversation (Without Causing Panic)
1. Start With Shared Goals
Begin with the common ground: We want you to go to a great school and graduate with opportunity—not debt.
This frames the discussion around opportunity and preparation, not sacrifice or limitation.
2. Introduce the Concept of “Financial Fit”
Talk about college as a financial decision, not just an emotional one.
Colleges can be grouped into three categories:
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Financial Reach: May require high aid or loans
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Target: Realistic with some planning
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Safety: Affordable even with limited aid
Help your student understand that a smart list includes all three—not just dream schools.
3. Discuss Your Resources Honestly
You don’t have to share every financial detail, but you should clearly communicate:
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Whether you’ve saved for college (and how much)
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Whether you’re willing or able to take out loans
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That scholarships and aid will play a big role
Hugo reminds parents: “Your child’s future shouldn’t be built on assumptions. It should be built on a plan.”
Timing Matters: When Should You Talk to Your Kids?
According to Chris, there’s no “perfect age,” but the earlier the better—especially before they start forming emotional attachments to specific schools.
Recommended milestones:
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Middle school: Introduce the idea of saving and cost
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Freshman/sophomore year: Begin discussing the financial side of college in parallel with academic prep
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Junior year: Have an open discussion about budget, target schools, and aid expectations before applications begin
Tools to Support the Conversation
The College Funding Coach® provides several tools and strategies to help families make informed decisions:
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College Money Report™
A personalized snapshot of what your family may be expected to pay and what aid options are available. - On-Demand Webinar
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Want to hear Hugo and Chris walk through the strategies in more depth?
Watch the recording now →
Final Thought: It’s Not Just a Talk—It’s a Game Plan
This isn’t just about being transparent—it’s about equipping your child with the right mindset to make smart decisions. College is a huge financial investment. Empowering your student with context, support, and a clear plan sets them up for a lifetime of responsible decision-making.
And as Chris put it, “Your kids don’t need you to have it all figured out. They just need you to show up, be honest, and build the path forward together.”
Ready to Talk Strategy?
Whether you’re saving early or applying now, we’re here to help you plan with confidence.
Get your personalized College Money Report™ and talk with a coach—at no cost.