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What have you found to be the best way to stay out of big student debt?#Spring25

I am stuck between a cheaper school far away or a more expensive school close to home. I want to know how can I minimize my debt?

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Kritsina’s Answer

You can start with a cost analysis before choosing a school. I recommend comparing all the major expenses — like tuition, housing (whether dorms or apartments), cost of living in the area, transportation, and meal plans — for both lower-cost schools and more expensive ones. Sometimes a school with higher tuition might save you money in other areas, so it’s important to look at the full picture.

That’s exactly what I did. I chose to attend a state university, and not only was it significantly more affordable, but I never felt at a disadvantage when I was applying for jobs after graduation. In fact, many employers focus more on your skills, experience, and how well you present yourself — not just the name of the school on your diploma.

It also helps to weigh the pros and cons of each option based on your goals. Think about things like campus resources, networking opportunities, class sizes, and job placement support. Sometimes the 'cheaper' option ends up offering everything you need without the financial burden. Starting with this kind of analysis can give you clarity and help you make a smart, debt-conscious decision.
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Mary Lou’s Answer

Check the cost estimator on college websites to see how much you'll pay and what scholarships you might get. Enter details like your GPA and SAT scores for an estimate. Private universities often offer more scholarship money, making them as affordable as state schools. Compare net costs using the estimator. Also, look into state schools with out-of-state tuition that might be cheaper than your in-state options. For example, my daughter found that out-of-state tuition at some schools was less than in-state tuition at Penn State's main campus. We made a spreadsheet of all the colleges she applied to, and the net cost estimates were close to the actual offers she received.
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Sheila’s Answer

Think about community or junior colleges and in-state options instead of out-of-state and private schools. They're often more affordable. Besides cost, consider things like housing, commute, school size, and location. If you plan to live in a dorm or student house, moving back home for a year or two can help pay off college debt. My kids also saved money by shopping at thrift stores, working extra hours during breaks, and tutoring or coaching on the side. Don't forget to talk to your high school counselor; they have lots of information on colleges and financial aid. Write down your questions and follow up with them. Hope this helps!
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