College and career school costs can vary significantly from school to school. 
Learn about college costs and get tips on how to lower costs when you go to school. The cost of college can include a variety of items including some you might not expect. By understanding college costs , you can compare schools and explore options for how to lower your costs. 

What is included in the cost of college? 
College costs include more than tuition and room and board. Here are common costs : Make sure colleges and career schools give you a clear statement of their tuition and fees. 

How can I lower the cost of college? 
Here are some suggestions on how you might be able to lower the cost of college. For many of these suggestions , you ll want to follow up with the colleges or career schools you are interested in to get additional details. Set a budget and stick to it! Having a budget will help you compare anticipated college or career school expenses against your potential available income and financial aid. You also can use a budget to compare costs between different schools. Learn about budgeting. College or career school costs can vary significantly and there are many schools with affordable tuition and generous financial assistance. Make sure to research all schools that may meet your academic and financial needs. To find colleges or career schools , use our college search tool, College Navigator. You may be able to get school credit based on your knowledge or life experiences , and you can manage your course work to reduce costs. Ask your school whether it s possible to test out of any classes. If you don t take a class , you may not have to pay for the credits. Some colleges give credit for life experiences, thereby reducing the number of credits needed for graduation. Most schools charge a set price for a specific number of credits taken in a semester. If academically possible , take the maximum number of credits allowed. This strategy reduces the amount of time neede

user: Hello, can you tell me how much it would cost my college career?

assistant: It varies depending on your school but you can get tips on how to lower the cost.

user: Ok, can you give me some tips about housing cost off-campus?

assistant:  Sure. One good tip would be to share a house or apartment with multiple housemates so you can divide the cost of the rent. You can also share a car to save on gas and parking.

user:  And, regarding the cost, what should I take into consideration when deciding for a school?

assistant:  You should make sure your chosen career school gives you a clear statement of their tuition and fees.

user:  And what about discounts, is it possible to get one from my career school?

assistant:  You can get one depending on some factors, like, are you a child of an alumnus or alumna? that is, did any of your parents went to that school?

user:  that would be a no.

assistant:  Do you have any other family members currently enrolled in that school?

user:  Yes, I do.

assistant:  Then that would be enough to get a discount at your school.

user:  Awesome. Now, regarding health care benefits. What if I'm eligible but I'm on a new insurance plan

assistant:  In that case, you can save some money because insurance companies can't charge you a deductible or copays for recommended or preventive services like flu shots or other immunizations.