By setting up a few simple Excel formulas (nothing more complicated than addition and division, you can see what they look like in this sample spreadsheet), you can not only track your maintenance data (what the mechanics did, when they did it, how much it cost, and what the mileage was at the time) but also see your average daily mileage during each period between servicings.

CNN: Use your Mac to track your money

In addition, even those earning too much to demonstrate need under aid formulas "expect to see some sort of merit aid, " unless the school is highly selective, said Trey Chappell, a college adviser in Scottsdale, Ariz.

WSJ: Colleges Cut Prices by Providing More Financial Aid