Here is some financing advice for those hoping to obtain a graduate degree, but are unsure how to foot those big bills:
 

• Be sure to take advantage of the government's generosity in the form of tax breaks. All students with more than two years of college behind them qualify for the lifetime learning credit of up to 20 percent of the first $5,000 in qualified education expenses - room and board don't count - for a maximum tax credit of $1,000. In 2003, the credit will double to 20 percent of the first $10,000 in qualified expenses, for credit up to $2,000.

• All graduate students looking to save some cash should inquire about teaching assistant or residential adviser positions. Teaching assistants usually can save a good deal on tuition costs, while residential advisors may be able to save on room and board.

• And then there are scholarships- there are scholarships possibilities for just about everyone and everything so don't worry if you are not the brightest and best in the class. Search for options online at the Princeton Review website www.princetonreview.com.