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 tuition costs.
Some colleges do not charge for more than the 12-credit load, even if you take 15 credits a semester. Check with your college regarding their policy.
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.
Your college may offer 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.
Understanding student loan rates are important when evaluating student loans. Learn about differences between fixed interest rates and variable interest rates.
Take advantage of the different types of financial aid available, like scholarships and grants to help you pay for school, before a loan from Discover Student Loans.
The College scholarship Service (CSS) Profile is additional to the FAFSA. Some colleges and universities use it to determine eligibility for private student aid.
A Student Aid Report comes after you send your FAFSA and is used to estimate your financial aid. Learn what's in it and why it matters with Discover Student Loans.
Find out your options when considering how to afford college housing. Get advice on how to limit college expenses when choosing where to live.
Learn about the average cost of college tuition & living expenses and how your choices might affect the annual costs.
Dependency status determines whose financial information will be reported on the FAFSA. Find out what parents and students need to know about FAFSA dependency status.
Don't let these top four FAFSA myths prevent you from filling out the FAFSA and receiving the money you need for college.
