The summer is a great time for students to start gathering information for their college search, and New York State Senator Kemp Hannon is here to help. His office is offering Your College Search, a free 32-page booklet published annually by the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities (CICU).

"New York is a world leader in providing quality higher education," Hannon said. "Because of initiatives by the New York State legislature, anyone who has the motivation can make a college education a reality."

Focusing on New York's 100+ private colleges and universities, the guide provides valuable information to enable students and their parents to begin finding the right college.

The just-released 2004 edition lists more than 500 associate and bachelor's degree programs cross-referenced with the colleges and universities that offer them. For each campus it notes tuition fees, room and board figures, application requirements and deadlines.

Financial aid resources, helpful worksheets and a campus locator are included as well. Hannon supported the College Bound initiative, which raised the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) maximum to $5,000 and made tuition payments state tax deductible.

"I encourage families to learn more about these options as you prepare for college," he said.

The senator helped New York to enact the College Savings Program to encourage families to set aside funds for higher education. To request a copy free of charge, call Hannon's district office at 739-1700.