While in the military - I had US Savings Bonds (EE Series) taken out every pay period. My parents also owned a farm and every year, they would sell one of the calves for each of the grand-kids and buy a US Savings bond (if that was their wish - or give the cash to the parents to do with what they wanted). We used those till they were exhausted and then used our HELOC for tuition and payed it off every semester. There were some very difficult financial times for my wife and I, but he graduated with no debt and we didn't accrue any long-term debt.

Our son didn't do it, but I would HIGHLY recommend the community college system for the 1st two years or perhaps a trade school. Our son chose a degree that has paid great dividends for himself and his family and will for the remainder of his career.

"The struggle you're in today, is developing the strength you need for tomorrow."