There's so much to consider in getting ready for college — from the admissions tests that budding scholars must seek to ace to the sometimes-painful budgeting process that must be undergone once a college is chosen. But there is help out there. One source is GEAR UP Hawai'i, whose federal, state and educational sponsors particularly want to give low-income students a leg up on preparing for college. Here's one option: free college planning workshops at local high schools, sponsored by the Hawaii Association for College Admission Counseling, First Hawaiian Bank and GEAR UP. They cover high school preparation, college selection and financial aid. The schedule:

7 tonight — Waipahu High School

7 p.m. Jan. 24 — Mililani High School

7 p.m. Jan. 31 — Kalaheo High School

7 p.m. Feb. 7 — Kapolei High School

6 p.m. Feb. 15 — Maui High School

6 p.m. Feb. 21 — Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School (Kaua'i)

7 p.m. March 1 — Kalani High School

Families will receive a free copy of a workbook titled "College Planning — A Family Affair."