8 websites to help consumers navigate college options

These websites provide information that helps consumers learn more about their higher education choices:

nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator -- Federal government's College Navigator website has cost, completion and other statistics for every postsecondary school that participates in federal programs.

collegecost.ed.gov -- Site provides information on state spending and college costs.

studentaid.ed.gov -- Federal government site explaining federal loan and grant programs.

fafsa.ed.gov -- Online form for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which is the formal application for federal grants and loans. Typically required by colleges for any need-based aid given by the institution as well.

finaid.org -- An online guide to financial aid published by Mark Kantrowiz.

edtrust.org/issues/higher-education/college-results-online -- Tool compares graduation rates of similar postsecondary schools.

projectonstudentdebt.org -- Lists average student debt levels for more than 1,000 postsecondary schools.

securityoncampus.org -- Nonprofit organization keeps a campus crime log, posts campus crime statistics.