If you paid down credit-card debt that would reduce the net value of your savings.

[Keep in mind, too, that the aid process is] a business transaction, ... They're rationing the money out to meet the college's needs and get the kids they want to get.

By selling now, you can lock in losses and reduce your child's 2001 tax bill, ... And your college savings will grow faster with the tax treatment in a 529.

[Plus,] the better students tend to get better packages, ... If they feel you can contribute more to the university as a student academically, musically or whatever, then you don't have to contribute as much financially.

In the end they have the same amount of money but not to the financial-aid people.

You'll get more money doing a good job on the form than rushing haphazardly and throwing it together,