In each guide, in addition to listing what aid is available, Howell analyses the type of person institutions give awards to (marks are seldom the only measure), and offers advice on the kind of extracurricular activities and community service that develop the right personal profile. He explains how to create a personal network to improve your chance for success. Howell also evaluates registered education saving plans as a method of financing post-secondary education.

For high-school students and their parents, these guides offer proven, practical advice on one of the greatest challenges of student life: affording it.