Ever wondered which colleges and universities have the best cost-to-payout ratio? Washburn University was among Kansas's top ...

Financial aid falls under two categories: merit-based and need-based. Universities and colleges distribute merit aid based on academic and talent achievements rather than a family's household income.

According to Affordable Colleges, only nine states offer prepaid tuition plans. Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more.