The cost of college tuition is typically not a fixed price and can increase an average of 2-4% a year. In addition to maximizing grants, scholarships and free financial aid, here are other tips to help keep tuition costs in check.
Many states have programs that enable residents to attend a college out-of-state without paying out-of-state tuition. Check with your state or the college(s) you are interested in to determine if they participate in a tuition exchange or reciprocity program.
Tuition at a community college is typically lower than a 4-year institution. Enrolling in classes during the summer or starting off at a community college and then transferring to a 4-year institution can help reduce overall tuition costs
Some colleges do not charge for more than the 12-credit load, even if you take 15 credits a semester.
When you switch majors, you could end up paying for classes that don't contribute to your degree.
Begin searching for scholarships the summer before your senior year in high school. Search 3 million scholarships worth more than $18 billion using our Free Scholarship Search.
You may be eligible for a tuition discount if multiple siblings attend the same college.
Commuting from home can save on room and board expenses.
Some schools offer 3-year programs, allowing students to take all the necessary courses for graduation in 3-years versus 4-years.
Some schools have introduced programs that lock in the tuition costs for an undergraduate program. Be sure to check with your school's financial aid office about program availability and any eligibility requirements.
These programs allow you to work as part of your education and any earnings you make do not affect your financial aid eligibility.
Navigating the financial aid process can seem daunting whether it's your first time in college or you are a returning student. Use these step-by-step instructions to help guide you through the process.
You will receive your Student Aid Report after you submit your FAFSA. Learn about the SAR and how it is used to determine financial aid.
It is a common belief that out-of-state tuition can be more expensive than in-state tuition. Check out which states offer affordable costs to attend state schools.
Learn about the average cost of a college education and how choice might affect the average annual costs.
It's important to understand the ins and outs of student loans before applying. Discover Student Loans provides advice for avoiding common student loan regrets.
It may be tempting to borrow for college, but there are ways to avoid it. Discover Student Loans offers first-person accounts on graduating college without debt - or very little.
Wondering how rising interest rates may affect your student loan rate? Find out how the Federal Reserve movements could affect the interest rate of your student loan.
Did you get a student loan refund? Before rushing out to spend it all, find out the best way to use your student loan refund to avoid costly mistakes.
