An unbiased, accurate and up-to-date guide to making the big college decisions

Should I go to college? Which school? What major? How can I graduate debt-free? Should I work while in school?

In The Truth About College: The Essential Guide for Parents and Teens--So You Can Make the Right Choice--Together, #1 New York Times bestselling author Ric Edelman delivers this amazing, eye-opening guide for both parents and teens who want to understand what going to college really means today. Most importantly, the book helps teens make the right choice about whether to go and, if they go, how to make the most of the experience.

From the nation's most acclaimed financial advisor known for his objectivity, this book is neither an anti-college screed nor a full-throated assertion that college is right for everyone. Ric's clear writing style and extensive research bring you this valuable decision-making guide that helps both adults and teens make the choice that can help teens enjoy a life of success and happiness.

Ric helps you consider the true characteristics and circumstances that prevail in today's college experience. Rather than relying on what college was like decades ago when parents got their degrees, Ric reveals what going to college means for today's teenagers - and how they can master the experience so they emerge ready for a life of success instead of suffering a ruinous future. The book has no ideological lens or a one-size-fits all conclusion; instead, you'll learn about all the real-world benefits (and costs, in time, money and effort) of getting a college degree today. Most importantly, you'll discover how to graduate from college in four years, debt-free, on the dean's list, with a degree that allows teens to have a career in the field they want to work in. That makes this book the one college guide that adults and teens simply must read.

Inside the book:

• A clear and comprehensive exploration of everything you and your teen need to know about one of the most important decisions high school students will ever make
• Quick Takeaways at the end of every chapter, plus 20 conversation starters that will get adults and teens talking openly and honestly about college
• Clear, unbiased advice from the nation's top financial advisor on everything from choosing the right major to adopting the study habits that lead to getting the job they want upon graduation

Perfect for all teenagers and parents facing the college question, The Truth About College is packed with the information you need to make one of the most important decisions in a teen's life.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Wiley
Published: 12/10/2025
ISBN: 9781394406852
Pages: 144