"Many parents are reeling from big financial losses at the same time they are shocked by college price tags, confused by all the nitpicky rules, and scared that they'll ruin their children's future if they can't figure out some way to get them through college," U.S. News & World Report, reports. "While every student and family is unique, there are four principles that apply to everybody: Grades matter more than ever ... Early birds will get more scholarship worms ... Students should apply to at least a couple of affordable schools ... Students should apply to at least a couple of generous schools."