10 Tips to Make College More Affordable
Published on: April 4, 2023
A college education is essential to professional success in many fields. Yet with the rising costs of everything from grocery staples to housing, many students and families are plagued with worry over how to make college more affordable. In an effort to alleviate some of those concerns, we will discuss ten tips to make college more affordable and attainable for students of all socioeconomic backgrounds.
Explore Our Online DegreesThe Importance of Higher Education
The importance of higher education cannot be understated. A college degree is often a requirement for many high-paying jobs and a significant factor in upward social mobility. It also provides students with valuable skills, knowledge and experiences that can be applied to many aspects of life. College education enhances critical thinking, communication, problem-solving and leadership abilities, making it a valuable investment in oneself.
The Rising Cost of College
Unfortunately, the cost of college continues to rise every year. According to the College Board, the average cost of tuition and fees at private four-year institutions in the United States was $39,400 in the 2021-2022 academic year, while public four-year institutions charged an average of $10,950 for in-state students and $28,240 for out-of-state students. And that’s not accounting for the room and board, textbooks and other expenses that can add thousands of dollars to the overall cost of attending college.
How to Make College More Affordable
If you’re wondering how to afford college despite the rising costs, there are many ways to reduce the cost of attending university. By implementing some or all of the following tips, students can reduce their financial burden and make college more attainable.
Apply for Scholarships
Scholarships are one of the best ways to reduce the cost of college. A scholarship is a type of financial aid that is awarded to students based on various criteria, such as academic merit, financial need, athletic ability or community service. Unlike student loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid, making them an excellent way to fund a college education without accumulating debt. Many scholarships are available through colleges and universities, private organizations and government programs and can cover all or part of the costs associated with attending college, including tuition fees, room and board, textbooks and other related expenses. To determine eligibility, students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Scholarships can be highly competitive, so it's essential to research and apply for as many scholarships as possible to increase the chances of receiving financial aid. Students must typically meet specific eligibility requirements and submit an application that includes personal information, academic records, essays and letters of recommendation to be considered for a scholarship.
Check Eligibility for Grants
Grants are another type of financial aid awarded based on financial need or academic merit that does not need to be repaid. There are various types of grants available for college students, including federal, state and institutional grants. To determine eligibility for grants, students will also need to complete the FAFSA.
The most common type of grant for college students is the Federal Pell Grant, which is awarded to undergraduate students based on their financial needs. The amount of the Pell Grant is determined based on the student's Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is calculated based on the family's income and assets. In addition to federal grants, many states offer their own grant programs for college students. These grants may be based on financial need, academic merit or other specific qualifications, and they can provide significant financial assistance to students attending college in that state. Colleges and universities also offer their own institutional grants and scholarships to students based on a variety of criteria.
Earn College Credits Prior to Enrolling
Earning college credits before enrolling in college can drastically reduce the cost of tuition and allow students to graduate early. Many high schools offer dual enrollment programs that allow students to earn college credits while still in high school, as well as Advanced Placement (AP) classes that can earn students college credit if they pass the AP exam. For nontraditional students, many colleges and universities offer credit for work experience or military service. These credits are typically awarded on a case-by-case basis and may require documentation or evidence of the student's experience or service. Students should research their options and speak with their high school guidance counselors or college advisors to determine which methods are best suited for their individual needs and goals.
Participate in Work-Study Programs
Work-study programs can be an excellent way for students to gain work experience, earn money to help pay for their education and develop valuable skills that can help them in their future careers. A work-study program is a type of financial aid offered by colleges and universities that allows students to work part-time while attending school to help pay for their education. Work-study programs are typically need-based, and the work-study job may be on-campus or off-campus with a non-profit or government agency.
Work-study jobs may be related to the student's field of study or may be general positions such as administrative assistants, research assistants or tutors. The availability of work-study jobs can vary depending on the college or university, and students should check with their financial aid office to determine if they are eligible and what opportunities are available to them.
Get a Part-time Job
Working part-time while in college can be an effective strategy for minimizing the amount of debt a student accumulates during their college years. Many businesses in college towns offer part-time jobs to college students, such as working at a restaurant or retail store. While working part-time can be challenging while also attending classes, it can provide a steady source of income to pay for some of their living expenses, textbooks and other school supplies, reducing their reliance on student loans. Furthermore, students who work part-time may be able to take fewer loans or smaller loan amounts, further decreasing their overall debt. Working part-time can also help students develop valuable skills, such as time management, that can be useful in their future careers.
Start Off at a Community College
Attending community college during your first year can be an effective way to reduce the overall cost of your college education. Community colleges generally have lower tuition fees than four-year colleges and universities and often offer flexible scheduling options, including online courses, that can allow students to work part-time while attending school. Students can often complete their general education requirements at a fraction of the cost, then transfer to a four-year college or university to complete their degree, saving both time and money. This can save students thousands of dollars in tuition costs and provide them with a solid foundation for their future education.
Take Online Courses
Online courses are becoming more prevalent and offer a flexible and affordable way to earn college credits. Many colleges and universities offer online courses that are equivalent to traditional in-person classes, but online courses are often less expensive than traditional classroom-based courses, as they do not require the same level of infrastructure, resources or faculty compensation. Students can take online courses at their own pace, making it easier to balance coursework with that part-time job and other obligations. That increased flexibility also allows students to complete their coursework on their own schedule and avoid the costs associated with commuting or relocating.
Live Off-Campus
Living off-campus is often cheaper than living on campus. On-campus housing can be expensive, and students may be required to purchase a meal plan, further adding to the overall cost. In contrast, living off-campus allows students to have more control over their living expenses, including food, rent, utilities and other costs. Students can often find more affordable housing options, such as apartments or shared housing, that are not available on campus. Some schools require students to live on-campus for their freshman and even sophomore years, so thoroughly research your options before enrolling and try to find a school that allows you to live off-campus.
Create a Budget and Stick to It
Creating a budget is an essential part of making college more affordable. Students should calculate their monthly expenses, including tuition, rent, food and transportation, and compare them to their income. This will help them determine how much money they need to make or save to cover their expenses. Sticking to a budget can be challenging, but it is essential to avoid overspending and accumulating unnecessary debt.
Buy Discounted Textbooks
Textbooks can be a significant expense for college students. However, students can save money by buying used or rented textbooks or purchasing digital versions. Make sure to sell your textbooks at the end of the semester to recoup some of the cost.
Earn an Affordable Degree at Husson Online
Husson University offers affordable online degree programs that can help students achieve their educational goals without breaking the bank. Husson Online offers a wide range of degree programs in fields such as business, healthcare, criminal justice and more. These programs are designed to provide students with a high-quality education that is flexible and affordable.
Husson Online also offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to help students afford their education. Additionally, Husson Online's credit transfer policy allows students to transfer up to 12 credits towards their bachelor’s degree, helping reduce the overall cost of tuition.
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