schools look at the fafsa. it's a federal form but schools have a look at it and they have a limited amount of student aid to disburse. the earlier you get it in the better shot you get at financial aid. >> i want to get this in. you guys have a top values in public colleges, a great list, great education, low price. what's at the top? >> at the very top is unc chapel hill. >> yeah! >> are you an alum? >> my brother is. it's a great school. >> this is kiplingers 100 best values in public colleges and universities. all the information is on our website, kiplinger.com. not only do you get to read about the schools but you get to parse that information, find out how much financial aid the schools actually give, what you or your student's indebtedness might be at graduation. these are all top flight academic institutions as well. >> janet, thank you for your help today. >> my pleasure, gerri. >>> up next,we'll help you keep your new year's resolution, dig out of debt and protect your bottom line. plus, everything y