Some schools are more affordable than others. Education is costly, but there are good schools in each state that are actually competing for students. Attend a more affordable school for the first two years Students can reduce costs significantly by attending a community college or junior college for two years and then transferring to a four-year institution. Since many, and in some cases all, of the course credits may transfer, with proper planning, students can complete their degrees in virtually the same amount of time while saving significantly on tuition. Consider letting Uncle Sam pay the bills Military service makes education affordable.
Some schools also provide free or reduced tuition in exchange for working part time on campus.
Although colleges themselves are the primary sources of scholarships and aid, there are also many national and local grants available through civic and service clubs, businesses, organizations and foundations. College Parents of America recommends starting college grant and scholarship research in the sophomore year of high school or earlier. An advance knowledge of the various eligibility criteria allows the student to conduct civic work, explore areas of study or interests, establish academic goals or take other steps required to qualify for specialized grants and scholarships. Borrowing for college Low interest federal loans can offer further leverage in financing college. But families should avoid overextending.