(MONEY Magazine) – 6 Avoid These Hidden Money Traps Our exclusive nationwide student poll uncovers some surprising findings -- and sensible advice as you begin your search. by Lesley Alderman

14 MONEY's College Value Rankings We list the 100 colleges that offer the best education for your money, according to our analysis of 959 schools' prices and academic quality. by Jillian Kasky

16 More Top Values Here are the bargains among specialized schools, from women's colleges to those focusing on science and technology, plus an evaluation of which of America's most costly schools are worth the price, and data on eight places where tuition is free.

18 The Best Buys in Your Area We divided the country into six regions in order to spotlight the top-rated schools located closest to you. 21 Box: How MONEY Ranks Colleges' Values

22 Inside the Top 10 A close look at schools offering the nation's best deals reveals an array of academic and social styles. by Lani Luciano

34 Acing the New SATs This key test has been revised. Our tips can help kids excel. by Lani Luciano 35 Box: Why Nearly Everyone's Score Will Rise

36 How to Cut Your Education Costs Here are strategies that can reduce your expenses by as much as 60%. What's more, they suit students of all abilities and aspirations, even those with families who are well-to-do. by Denise M. Topolnicki 38 Box: Ivy-League Quality at State-College Prices 41 Box: Commuter Schools That Are Well Worth a Look

42 College Admissions Calendar Your child can find a school that's a terrific fit by following these important steps. by Elaine Richardson

44 Smart Investing Moves for College The tactics you must use depend largely on the age of your children. But whether your kids are wearing Dr. Denton's or Doc Martens, one of these strategies will work for you. by Carla A. Fried 52 Worksheet: What to Save for Your Real College Costs 53 Box: Why to Avoid State Prepaid Tuition Plans

56 The Best Ways to Borrow What You Need For help in meeting tuition bills, you and your child can choose from a variety of excellent low-cost loans reported on here. by Vanessa O'Connell 56 Table: Loans That Will Speed You to Your Goal

58 How to Negotiate for More Financial Aid With a little wheeling and dealing, smart college shoppers can command higher dollar awards. Your chances of getting more than you're initially offered have never been better. by Penelope Wang 62 Box: The Scoop on Scholarships 63 Worksheet: Calculate Your Share of the College Bills

64 The Most Lucrative Degrees These fields of study can set kids up for top jobs; plus tips on how even liberal arts majors can boost their odds of finding well-paying work. by Shelly Branch 66 Table: Ten Top Careers for the 21st Century 68 Box: Great Internships That Can Help Land a Job

70 MONEY's Guide to 1,010 Colleges By comparing the vital data that we provide in these listings, you can home in on the right school for your child. by Jillian Kasky

96 When Parents Should Butt In -- and Butt Out Ask questions, but don't be bossy, says a recent grad, recalling her experiences during her own college search. by Sarah D. Bunting

Photographs by Philip-Lorca diCorcia (opposite page, top), Craig Cutler (opposite page, bottom), John Harding (left), Dan Borris (above); illustration by Elwood H. Smith

Cover photographs by Dan Boris

MONEY Guide: Best College Buys is a publication of Time Inc. GST R122781974. Principal office: Rockefeller Center, New York, N.Y. 10020-1393. Reginald K. Brack Jr., Chairman; Don Logan, President, CEO; Joseph A. Ripp, Treasurer; Harry M. Johnston, Secretary. Second-class postage paid at New York, N.Y. and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MONEY, P.O. Box 30607, Tampa, Fla. 33630-0607. ) 1994 Time Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. MONEY is a registered trademark of Time Inc. Additional copies of MONEY Guide: Best College Buys are $4.95 each (or at quantity rates for more than 10 copies) from MONEY Guide 1995: Best College Buys, P.O. Box 30626, Tampa, Fla. 33630-0626.