5 answers
5
Questions
Asked
1475 views
How to pay for college?
college is so expensive pls help me
Login to comment
5 answers
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey ZhiYou! 😅 College expenses can definitely feel overwhelming, but don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to make it more affordable. Here’s a game plan to help you tackle those costs and keep the stress levels low:
1. Scholarships 💰🎓
This is golden! Scholarships are a great way to get free money for college, and they don’t have to be paid back. Some are based on merit (grades, test scores, talents) while others are for specific groups (like first-generation college students, underrepresented groups, or based on your interests). Here's where to start:
School-specific scholarships: Check your college’s website for scholarships they offer to incoming students.
External scholarships: Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, or even local community foundations often have tons of opportunities. Apply to as many as possible!
2. Financial Aid 💵💳
You may qualify for need-based financial aid, which can cover a big chunk of your college costs. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your key here. It helps determine your eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and loans. Here’s what you need to do:
Fill out the FAFSA: The earlier you submit it, the better. Don’t miss out on opportunities because you waited too long!
State aid: Some states also have their own aid programs, so check out the website for your state’s higher education department to apply.
3. Work-Study Programs 🧑🏫💼
If you’re eligible for financial aid, you may also qualify for a work-study job. These jobs are often on-campus, so they’re super convenient. Plus, they’re usually flexible with your class schedule. You’ll earn money while gaining valuable work experience—pretty much a win-win!
4. Part-time Jobs 🕒💼
A part-time job while in school can help cover some of your expenses. Whether it’s waiting tables, working in retail, or finding something in your field of interest (internships, anyone?), every little bit helps. Pro tip: On-campus jobs often pay more and are easier to balance with schoolwork.
5. Student Loans 📑💳
While loans aren’t the most fun option, they can be necessary for covering your college costs. Federal student loans generally offer the best rates and benefits. If you need to go this route:
Stick with federal loans as much as possible—Subsidized loans and Unsubsidized loans usually have better interest rates.
Private loans should be your last resort, as they often have higher rates and fewer protections.
6. Community College First 🎓➡️🏫
If you’re really feeling the cost pinch, starting at a community college for 2 years can save a lot of money before transferring to a 4-year university. Many schools have articulation agreements, meaning you can transfer to a university with credits that count toward your degree. It’s like a little financial hack to get the same education for less!
7. Budgeting 📊💡
Once you’re in school, it’s important to budget your money wisely. Start tracking your spending and look for areas to cut back (like takeout coffee or buying too many textbooks). Using apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need a Budget) can help you manage your money and avoid overspending.
8. Crowdfunding or Crowdsourcing 🤝💸
We live in a digital age, and sometimes it’s worth putting out the call for help. GoFundMe or Kickstarter could help you raise funds for your education if you’re in a tough spot. You’d be amazed at how many people are willing to pitch in for a good cause (like your future!).
Bonus Pro Tip: Start Small, Dream Big ✨
It might seem impossible to cover all your costs, but breaking it down into smaller steps can make it more manageable. Start with the easy wins (like applying for scholarships), then move on to other strategies. And remember, you’re not alone in this! Many students face the same challenge.
Stay focused, keep applying, and keep that dream alive—you got this! 👏
1. Scholarships 💰🎓
This is golden! Scholarships are a great way to get free money for college, and they don’t have to be paid back. Some are based on merit (grades, test scores, talents) while others are for specific groups (like first-generation college students, underrepresented groups, or based on your interests). Here's where to start:
School-specific scholarships: Check your college’s website for scholarships they offer to incoming students.
External scholarships: Websites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, or even local community foundations often have tons of opportunities. Apply to as many as possible!
2. Financial Aid 💵💳
You may qualify for need-based financial aid, which can cover a big chunk of your college costs. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your key here. It helps determine your eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and loans. Here’s what you need to do:
Fill out the FAFSA: The earlier you submit it, the better. Don’t miss out on opportunities because you waited too long!
State aid: Some states also have their own aid programs, so check out the website for your state’s higher education department to apply.
3. Work-Study Programs 🧑🏫💼
If you’re eligible for financial aid, you may also qualify for a work-study job. These jobs are often on-campus, so they’re super convenient. Plus, they’re usually flexible with your class schedule. You’ll earn money while gaining valuable work experience—pretty much a win-win!
4. Part-time Jobs 🕒💼
A part-time job while in school can help cover some of your expenses. Whether it’s waiting tables, working in retail, or finding something in your field of interest (internships, anyone?), every little bit helps. Pro tip: On-campus jobs often pay more and are easier to balance with schoolwork.
5. Student Loans 📑💳
While loans aren’t the most fun option, they can be necessary for covering your college costs. Federal student loans generally offer the best rates and benefits. If you need to go this route:
Stick with federal loans as much as possible—Subsidized loans and Unsubsidized loans usually have better interest rates.
Private loans should be your last resort, as they often have higher rates and fewer protections.
6. Community College First 🎓➡️🏫
If you’re really feeling the cost pinch, starting at a community college for 2 years can save a lot of money before transferring to a 4-year university. Many schools have articulation agreements, meaning you can transfer to a university with credits that count toward your degree. It’s like a little financial hack to get the same education for less!
7. Budgeting 📊💡
Once you’re in school, it’s important to budget your money wisely. Start tracking your spending and look for areas to cut back (like takeout coffee or buying too many textbooks). Using apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need a Budget) can help you manage your money and avoid overspending.
8. Crowdfunding or Crowdsourcing 🤝💸
We live in a digital age, and sometimes it’s worth putting out the call for help. GoFundMe or Kickstarter could help you raise funds for your education if you’re in a tough spot. You’d be amazed at how many people are willing to pitch in for a good cause (like your future!).
Bonus Pro Tip: Start Small, Dream Big ✨
It might seem impossible to cover all your costs, but breaking it down into smaller steps can make it more manageable. Start with the easy wins (like applying for scholarships), then move on to other strategies. And remember, you’re not alone in this! Many students face the same challenge.
Stay focused, keep applying, and keep that dream alive—you got this! 👏
Updated
Grecia’s Answer
There are multiple ways to pay for college: Grants, financial aid, Student loans, scholarships, remote jobs, or working outside school hours. It is essential to research all the options because you can combine them to pay for college.
Good luck.
Good luck.
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi ZhiYou:
Iryna has great recommendations. I'll answer your question in taking the perspective of scholarships. Please see the information below.
There is no set limit on the amount of scholarship applications that can be submitted. It will take time on your behalf to thoroughly fill out the scholarship applications. There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you on what was stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
There will be a application fee to pay for when submitting college applications. The amount of application fee will depend on the college that you are applying to. If there are questions about the college application process, please reach out to the college's Registrar Office.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and acceptance to the applied college of choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
There should be no limit on the amount of scholarships that one can apply to. It will take time to fill out the scholarship applications and provide all of the necessary required information. Also, there should no fee and no cost to fill out and submit scholarship applications. If there is a fee or cost that is associated with a scholarship application, then please do not send this particular scholarship application in. It will be a scam and money will be lost.
Best wishes for your future education and good luck with your scholarship applications!
Iryna has great recommendations. I'll answer your question in taking the perspective of scholarships. Please see the information below.
There is no set limit on the amount of scholarship applications that can be submitted. It will take time on your behalf to thoroughly fill out the scholarship applications. There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you on what was stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
There will be a application fee to pay for when submitting college applications. The amount of application fee will depend on the college that you are applying to. If there are questions about the college application process, please reach out to the college's Registrar Office.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and acceptance to the applied college of choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
There should be no limit on the amount of scholarships that one can apply to. It will take time to fill out the scholarship applications and provide all of the necessary required information. Also, there should no fee and no cost to fill out and submit scholarship applications. If there is a fee or cost that is associated with a scholarship application, then please do not send this particular scholarship application in. It will be a scam and money will be lost.
Best wishes for your future education and good luck with your scholarship applications!
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey ZHIyou,
1. Scholarships
These usually break down into institutional (the ones you get from the school upon admittance) and private (the ones that come from community or other organizations) For me I didn't get really anything institutional so I got good at writing in high school taking AP courses. I used that skill to write good scholarship essays and got several while in school. Note that there are private scholarship at your school, and potentially even specific to your major so seek help from your financial aid office at your school about those and how to apply.
2. Getting involved
There are certain positions like student government, and others that actually offer a stipend to some of the executive board that are voted in so being in those positions can be helpful but they do require some additional work.
3. Resident assistant
This one helped me the most. Being an RA is a lot of working looking after the residence hall and being a big part of building the community in it. But it paid for room and board and some schools it even pays for some tuition. This is a big one if you can get it.
4. Become an employee
It's not the most glorious road but many schools offer discounts to employees. I know a few people who picked up jobs as groundskeepers and maintenance workers for the school and got a HEFTY discount on their schooling.
1. Scholarships
These usually break down into institutional (the ones you get from the school upon admittance) and private (the ones that come from community or other organizations) For me I didn't get really anything institutional so I got good at writing in high school taking AP courses. I used that skill to write good scholarship essays and got several while in school. Note that there are private scholarship at your school, and potentially even specific to your major so seek help from your financial aid office at your school about those and how to apply.
2. Getting involved
There are certain positions like student government, and others that actually offer a stipend to some of the executive board that are voted in so being in those positions can be helpful but they do require some additional work.
3. Resident assistant
This one helped me the most. Being an RA is a lot of working looking after the residence hall and being a big part of building the community in it. But it paid for room and board and some schools it even pays for some tuition. This is a big one if you can get it.
4. Become an employee
It's not the most glorious road but many schools offer discounts to employees. I know a few people who picked up jobs as groundskeepers and maintenance workers for the school and got a HEFTY discount on their schooling.
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hello!
Paying for college can be challenging, but there are several strategies and resources you can use to help manage the costs. Here are some options:
1. Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships: Look for merit-based or need-based scholarships offered by colleges, private organizations, or community groups. Websites like Fastweb, College Board, and Cappex can help you find scholarships.
Grants: Federal and state grants, such as the Pell Grant, do not need to be repaid. Apply for these by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
2. Federal Student Aid
FAFSA: Complete the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid, including loans, grants, and work-study programs.
Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans: These federal loans typically offer lower interest rates than private loans and may have flexible repayment options.
3. State Financial Aid
State Grants and Scholarships: Many states offer their own financial aid programs. Check your state’s higher education website for information on available resources.
4. Work-Study Programs
Part-Time Employment: Federal Work-Study programs allow you to work part-time while attending college, providing a way to earn money to help pay for your education.
5. Tuition Payment Plans
Installment Plans: Some colleges offer tuition payment plans that allow you to pay your tuition in monthly installments instead of a lump sum, making payments more manageable.
6. Student Loans
Federal Student Loans: Consider federal loans first, as they usually offer lower interest rates and better repayment options compared to private loans.
Private Student Loans: If you need additional funds, explore private loan options through banks or credit unions, but be cautious of interest rates and repayment terms.
7. College Savings Plans
529 Plans: If you have a college savings plan like a 529, this can help cover tuition and expenses. Withdrawals for qualified education expenses are tax-free.
8. Crowdfunding and Fundraising
Crowdfunding Platforms: Platforms like GoFundMe allow you to create a campaign to raise money for your education.
Fundraising Events: Consider organizing events, like bake sales or car washes, to raise money for your college fund.
9. Employer Tuition Assistance
Employer Programs: If you are working, check if your employer offers tuition assistance or reimbursement programs that can help cover your education costs.
10. Community Colleges and Online Courses
Start at a Community College: Consider starting your education at a community college, which typically has lower tuition costs. After completing your general education, you can transfer to a four-year university.
Online Courses: Explore online courses or programs that may offer lower tuition rates while allowing you to continue working.
11. Budgeting and Financial Planning
Create a Budget: Plan and track your expenses to manage your finances while in college. Use budgeting tools and apps to help you stay on top of your spending.
Reduce Expenses: Look for ways to cut costs, such as sharing housing, using public transportation, or being mindful of daily expenses.
Combining multiple funding sources can help cover the cost of college. Start by researching scholarships and financial aid options and complete the FAFSA as early as possible. Planning and budgeting effectively can also significantly alleviate the financial burden. If you need additional advice or support, consider reaching out to a financial aid advisor at your prospective college for guidance tailored to your situation. Good luck!
Paying for college can be challenging, but there are several strategies and resources you can use to help manage the costs. Here are some options:
1. Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships: Look for merit-based or need-based scholarships offered by colleges, private organizations, or community groups. Websites like Fastweb, College Board, and Cappex can help you find scholarships.
Grants: Federal and state grants, such as the Pell Grant, do not need to be repaid. Apply for these by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
2. Federal Student Aid
FAFSA: Complete the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid, including loans, grants, and work-study programs.
Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans: These federal loans typically offer lower interest rates than private loans and may have flexible repayment options.
3. State Financial Aid
State Grants and Scholarships: Many states offer their own financial aid programs. Check your state’s higher education website for information on available resources.
4. Work-Study Programs
Part-Time Employment: Federal Work-Study programs allow you to work part-time while attending college, providing a way to earn money to help pay for your education.
5. Tuition Payment Plans
Installment Plans: Some colleges offer tuition payment plans that allow you to pay your tuition in monthly installments instead of a lump sum, making payments more manageable.
6. Student Loans
Federal Student Loans: Consider federal loans first, as they usually offer lower interest rates and better repayment options compared to private loans.
Private Student Loans: If you need additional funds, explore private loan options through banks or credit unions, but be cautious of interest rates and repayment terms.
7. College Savings Plans
529 Plans: If you have a college savings plan like a 529, this can help cover tuition and expenses. Withdrawals for qualified education expenses are tax-free.
8. Crowdfunding and Fundraising
Crowdfunding Platforms: Platforms like GoFundMe allow you to create a campaign to raise money for your education.
Fundraising Events: Consider organizing events, like bake sales or car washes, to raise money for your college fund.
9. Employer Tuition Assistance
Employer Programs: If you are working, check if your employer offers tuition assistance or reimbursement programs that can help cover your education costs.
10. Community Colleges and Online Courses
Start at a Community College: Consider starting your education at a community college, which typically has lower tuition costs. After completing your general education, you can transfer to a four-year university.
Online Courses: Explore online courses or programs that may offer lower tuition rates while allowing you to continue working.
11. Budgeting and Financial Planning
Create a Budget: Plan and track your expenses to manage your finances while in college. Use budgeting tools and apps to help you stay on top of your spending.
Reduce Expenses: Look for ways to cut costs, such as sharing housing, using public transportation, or being mindful of daily expenses.
Combining multiple funding sources can help cover the cost of college. Start by researching scholarships and financial aid options and complete the FAFSA as early as possible. Planning and budgeting effectively can also significantly alleviate the financial burden. If you need additional advice or support, consider reaching out to a financial aid advisor at your prospective college for guidance tailored to your situation. Good luck!