11 answers
Zae'onna
Student
12
Questions
Asked
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How to get a full ride scholarship as a regular high school student I just don't want to be in debt ?
Just trying to understand now so I won't be struggling later .
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11 answers
George Zou, M.S.
Academic Advisor
38
Answers
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Updated
George’s Answer
That’s a really wise mindset—you’re already ahead by thinking about this early. Getting a full ride scholarship as a regular high school student is definitely possible, but it usually takes strategy, persistence, and matching your strengths with the right opportunities. Here’s a clear roadmap for you:
1. Understand What “Full Ride” Means
A full ride usually covers tuition, housing, meals, and sometimes fees/books. There are three main types:
Merit-based – awarded for academics, leadership, athletics, or special talents.
Need-based – awarded for financial need (from the college itself, or federal/state aid).
Special programs – ROTC, national scholarships, or schools with guaranteed aid for certain criteria.
2. Boost Academics (Most Full Rides Start Here)
Aim to raise your GPA as much as possible junior and senior year (colleges like upward trends).
Take rigorous courses (AP, IB, honors, dual credit)—scholarship committees reward challenge.
Score as high as possible on the SAT/ACT (some full-ride scholarships have minimum test scores).
Even if you had struggles earlier (like depression hurting GPA), emphasize your comeback story—colleges admire resilience.
3. Target the Right Colleges
Some schools automatically award full tuition or full rides if you meet certain GPA/test benchmarks. Examples:
Alabama, Arizona State, UAB, UT-Dallas – automatic full tuition for high scores.
Private universities (Duke, Vanderbilt, Notre Dame, USC, etc.) – competitive full rides for top applicants.
In-state public universities sometimes give full rides to high-achieving residents.
Strategy: Apply to a mix of dream, match, and safety schools—including those known for generous aid.
4. Apply for Major National Scholarships
Some full rides don’t even depend on the college:
Coca-Cola Scholars ($20K)
Gates Scholarship (for low-income, minority students)
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation (for high-achieving students with financial need)
QuestBridge (partners with top schools, covers everything)
ROTC (military service commitment, but covers full tuition + stipend)
5. Strengthen Your Story
Scholarships often go to students who:
Show leadership (clubs, volunteering, community work).
Have a passion project or unique activity (doesn’t have to be fancy—consistency matters).
Write personal, authentic essays that stand out (overcoming struggles, giving back, faith, values, resilience).
6. Apply Broadly & Stay Organized
Start a scholarship tracker spreadsheet (deadlines, requirements, award amounts).
Apply for local scholarships too (less competition, money adds up).
Treat it like a part-time job—some students apply to 50–100 scholarships and walk away debt-free.
Sometimes the best strategy isn’t just hunting for one giant scholarship, but stacking multiple cost-saving approaches together so college ends up being affordable (or even free). Here are the most effective ways to reduce the cost of college:
🎯 1. Choose the Right College Strategically
In-State Public Universities: Usually much cheaper than out-of-state or private schools.
Colleges with Automatic Scholarships: Some schools give big merit aid just for GPA/test scores (e.g., University of Alabama, UT Dallas, Arizona State).
Colleges That Meet 100% of Need: Examples: Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Amherst, Stanford (often cheaper than state schools for middle/low-income families).
💰 2. Earn Scholarships & Grants (Free Money)
National scholarships (Coca-Cola, Gates, Jack Kent Cooke, etc.).
Local scholarships (Rotary Club, businesses, community foundations—less competition).
Departmental scholarships (once in college, many majors offer extra aid).
Stacking scholarships: You can often combine smaller awards to cover textbooks, meals, or living expenses.
🏫 3. Start College Early or Cheap
Dual Enrollment / AP / IB: Earn college credits in high school = graduate early.
CLEP exams: Test out of classes for ~$90 each instead of paying thousands in tuition.
Community College First (2 + 2 Path): Two years at a community college, then transfer to a university. (Some states guarantee full transfer if GPA is high enough.)
📜 4. File FAFSA Every Year
Even if your family isn’t low-income, FAFSA can unlock:
Federal grants (Pell Grant up to ~$7,395/year).
State grants (varies by state).
Work-study (on-campus jobs that pay tuition).
Some schools won’t even consider you for aid unless you file FAFSA.
🎓 5. Reduce Living Expenses
Live at home (commute instead of dorming, if possible).
RA (Resident Assistant) jobs often include free room & board.
Meal plans: Choose the smallest one and cook meals if allowed.
💼 6. Work While in School (Smartly)
Work-study jobs on campus are flexible and reduce debt.
Internships / Co-op programs: Some schools (like Northeastern, Drexel) integrate paid work into your degree.
Summer jobs: Earmark earnings just for tuition.
🏅 7. Special Programs That Cover College
ROTC Scholarships (commit to military service).
AmeriCorps (service program gives an education award).
Employer Tuition Assistance (some companies—like Starbucks, Walmart, Amazon—pay for employees’ college).
✅ Bottom Line: If you combine (1) choosing the right school, (2) maximizing free money, (3) earning credits early, and (4) cutting living costs—you can often reduce a $100K+ college bill to almost nothing.
1. Understand What “Full Ride” Means
A full ride usually covers tuition, housing, meals, and sometimes fees/books. There are three main types:
Merit-based – awarded for academics, leadership, athletics, or special talents.
Need-based – awarded for financial need (from the college itself, or federal/state aid).
Special programs – ROTC, national scholarships, or schools with guaranteed aid for certain criteria.
2. Boost Academics (Most Full Rides Start Here)
Aim to raise your GPA as much as possible junior and senior year (colleges like upward trends).
Take rigorous courses (AP, IB, honors, dual credit)—scholarship committees reward challenge.
Score as high as possible on the SAT/ACT (some full-ride scholarships have minimum test scores).
Even if you had struggles earlier (like depression hurting GPA), emphasize your comeback story—colleges admire resilience.
3. Target the Right Colleges
Some schools automatically award full tuition or full rides if you meet certain GPA/test benchmarks. Examples:
Alabama, Arizona State, UAB, UT-Dallas – automatic full tuition for high scores.
Private universities (Duke, Vanderbilt, Notre Dame, USC, etc.) – competitive full rides for top applicants.
In-state public universities sometimes give full rides to high-achieving residents.
Strategy: Apply to a mix of dream, match, and safety schools—including those known for generous aid.
4. Apply for Major National Scholarships
Some full rides don’t even depend on the college:
Coca-Cola Scholars ($20K)
Gates Scholarship (for low-income, minority students)
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation (for high-achieving students with financial need)
QuestBridge (partners with top schools, covers everything)
ROTC (military service commitment, but covers full tuition + stipend)
5. Strengthen Your Story
Scholarships often go to students who:
Show leadership (clubs, volunteering, community work).
Have a passion project or unique activity (doesn’t have to be fancy—consistency matters).
Write personal, authentic essays that stand out (overcoming struggles, giving back, faith, values, resilience).
6. Apply Broadly & Stay Organized
Start a scholarship tracker spreadsheet (deadlines, requirements, award amounts).
Apply for local scholarships too (less competition, money adds up).
Treat it like a part-time job—some students apply to 50–100 scholarships and walk away debt-free.
Sometimes the best strategy isn’t just hunting for one giant scholarship, but stacking multiple cost-saving approaches together so college ends up being affordable (or even free). Here are the most effective ways to reduce the cost of college:
🎯 1. Choose the Right College Strategically
In-State Public Universities: Usually much cheaper than out-of-state or private schools.
Colleges with Automatic Scholarships: Some schools give big merit aid just for GPA/test scores (e.g., University of Alabama, UT Dallas, Arizona State).
Colleges That Meet 100% of Need: Examples: Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Amherst, Stanford (often cheaper than state schools for middle/low-income families).
💰 2. Earn Scholarships & Grants (Free Money)
National scholarships (Coca-Cola, Gates, Jack Kent Cooke, etc.).
Local scholarships (Rotary Club, businesses, community foundations—less competition).
Departmental scholarships (once in college, many majors offer extra aid).
Stacking scholarships: You can often combine smaller awards to cover textbooks, meals, or living expenses.
🏫 3. Start College Early or Cheap
Dual Enrollment / AP / IB: Earn college credits in high school = graduate early.
CLEP exams: Test out of classes for ~$90 each instead of paying thousands in tuition.
Community College First (2 + 2 Path): Two years at a community college, then transfer to a university. (Some states guarantee full transfer if GPA is high enough.)
📜 4. File FAFSA Every Year
Even if your family isn’t low-income, FAFSA can unlock:
Federal grants (Pell Grant up to ~$7,395/year).
State grants (varies by state).
Work-study (on-campus jobs that pay tuition).
Some schools won’t even consider you for aid unless you file FAFSA.
🎓 5. Reduce Living Expenses
Live at home (commute instead of dorming, if possible).
RA (Resident Assistant) jobs often include free room & board.
Meal plans: Choose the smallest one and cook meals if allowed.
💼 6. Work While in School (Smartly)
Work-study jobs on campus are flexible and reduce debt.
Internships / Co-op programs: Some schools (like Northeastern, Drexel) integrate paid work into your degree.
Summer jobs: Earmark earnings just for tuition.
🏅 7. Special Programs That Cover College
ROTC Scholarships (commit to military service).
AmeriCorps (service program gives an education award).
Employer Tuition Assistance (some companies—like Starbucks, Walmart, Amazon—pay for employees’ college).
✅ Bottom Line: If you combine (1) choosing the right school, (2) maximizing free money, (3) earning credits early, and (4) cutting living costs—you can often reduce a $100K+ college bill to almost nothing.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1060
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Each college and university usually has something called a "College Foundation" where you can log into, from the college or university webpage and review their financial aid and scholarship assistance that is available. I once sat on the scholarship selection committee, for one of these college foundations, and high school students was one of the groups we provided assistance to, who were in the process of attending our institution.
Private donors and benefactors, support college and university foundation programs, and amongst their financial gifts are scholarships and financial assistance for students.
These scholarships can come in many forms, they can be based on major, future occupation, college goals, or non-profit activities, ethnicity, and other criteria.
So, the college or university College Foundation, is always worth checking.
Private donors and benefactors, support college and university foundation programs, and amongst their financial gifts are scholarships and financial assistance for students.
These scholarships can come in many forms, they can be based on major, future occupation, college goals, or non-profit activities, ethnicity, and other criteria.
So, the college or university College Foundation, is always worth checking.
Kimberly Ferguson
Write on LinkedIn
8
Answers
Huntsville, Alabama
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
You can apply for scholarships. financial aid and you can enroll in a work-study program. You have options to not have to take out student loans. Talk to your school counselor and voice your concerns and ask for resources in the community, banks offer scholarships and churches can help you financially to not take on debt.
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1093
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Zae'onna,
First, you'll submit your FAFSA form and possibly your CSS profile (check if your target university participates in it, e.g. Hampton University does) to apply for federal and state assistance:
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid
https://cssprofile.collegeboard.org
The information on these forms is used to determine your need for federal and state funding. Universities also use the information to determine what aid to offer you. Find out what the deadlines for federal and state are and submit early if you can.
You find information on financial aid programs in Virginia here: https://www.schev.edu/financial-aid/financial-aid
I remember you were looking at Nursing programs at an HBCU in Virginia. I would recommend that you talk to the schools you are interested in directly, because they would be able to advise you what kind of assistance is available for their specific schools.
Apart from that, Virginia has the G3 program, and healthcare is one of the supported areas. There are 23 participating Community Colleges in the program. If you want to save money, consider attending one of these colleges to get your associates degree before you transfer to a university of your choice for your bachelors. Not only is tuition at Community Colleges lower or possibly free, but you would gain a degree or certificate that allows you to work while you study, during semester breaks or even to save up money before you go for the next step.
Next, look for scholarships for healthcare professions and specifically for minority scholarships. There are shortages in healthcare pretty much everywhere. So, check if any healthcare facilities in your area offer tuition to their employees or if you sign up to work for them in the future.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://virginiag3.com/programs/healthcare
https://virginiag3.com/participating-colleges
http://www.nursingscholarship.us/MinorityNursingScholarship.html
https://home.hamptonu.edu/financialaid
First, you'll submit your FAFSA form and possibly your CSS profile (check if your target university participates in it, e.g. Hampton University does) to apply for federal and state assistance:
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid
https://cssprofile.collegeboard.org
The information on these forms is used to determine your need for federal and state funding. Universities also use the information to determine what aid to offer you. Find out what the deadlines for federal and state are and submit early if you can.
You find information on financial aid programs in Virginia here: https://www.schev.edu/financial-aid/financial-aid
I remember you were looking at Nursing programs at an HBCU in Virginia. I would recommend that you talk to the schools you are interested in directly, because they would be able to advise you what kind of assistance is available for their specific schools.
Apart from that, Virginia has the G3 program, and healthcare is one of the supported areas. There are 23 participating Community Colleges in the program. If you want to save money, consider attending one of these colleges to get your associates degree before you transfer to a university of your choice for your bachelors. Not only is tuition at Community Colleges lower or possibly free, but you would gain a degree or certificate that allows you to work while you study, during semester breaks or even to save up money before you go for the next step.
Next, look for scholarships for healthcare professions and specifically for minority scholarships. There are shortages in healthcare pretty much everywhere. So, check if any healthcare facilities in your area offer tuition to their employees or if you sign up to work for them in the future.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Terez Little
Strategic Communication
5
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Terez’s Answer
Hello. First congratulations on taking the next step on continuing your education, you will not be disappointed. There are a number of scholarships you can apply to while you are still in school and even afterwards to minimize, limit, or not have any student debt at all. There are unique options for people with all types of unique abilities such as artists, left handed, and many other similar traits. First, think about some of the unique things you have interests in and do research on scholarship opportunities. The education you are pursuing may also have scholarship options. Looking into STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) degrees will also lend opportunities for scholarships. The colleges you are pursuing may also have academic scholarship options or walk on sport scholarship options. The military and uniformed services have options for you to join and they will fully fund your education in some instances up to a Master’s or PhD level. Your options for the military can start as the National Guard or Reserves or you can join ROTC in high school or in college and discuss scholarship options there too.
Also consider, tuition is only one expense, you must also pay for room and board if you decide to stay on campus or stay somewhere that requires you pay for your housing. Ask the colleges you are applying to if there are options to be a Residence Assistance to cover the room and board (housing and food).
While you are in high school, consider taking some of the college level courses that will credit you and allow you to minimize time and money spent in colleges. While some may require you pay a fee for the testing, others have options to allow their students to test for free.
Also consider, tuition is only one expense, you must also pay for room and board if you decide to stay on campus or stay somewhere that requires you pay for your housing. Ask the colleges you are applying to if there are options to be a Residence Assistance to cover the room and board (housing and food).
While you are in high school, consider taking some of the college level courses that will credit you and allow you to minimize time and money spent in colleges. While some may require you pay a fee for the testing, others have options to allow their students to test for free.
Karissa Helton
Teacher
212
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Karissa’s Answer
Right now your goal is to get a 3.8 to 4.0 GPA and volunteer. A "regular" student is not what you want. Try and take as many honors and AP classes as possible.
Find all the "state" colleges in your state. These are the cheapest option therefore less debt in the long run.
Go to the local library and ask about scholarship resources. These will not all be books.
Karissa recommends the following next steps:
Kaitlyn Corey
Occupational Therapy Assistant/Occupational Therapy Student
60
Answers
Graniteville, South Carolina
Updated
Kaitlyn’s Answer
Getting a full ride takes planning, but it’s definitely possible even as a regular student. Start by keeping your grades as strong as you can since most big scholarships look closely at GPA and test scores. Get involved in a few activities you care about, because leadership and commitment matter more than joining every club. Apply to schools where your grades and scores put you at the top of their applicant pool since those are the places most likely to offer large merit awards. Look into state programs and local scholarships too, since those can add up quickly and cover costs beyond tuition. It also helps to apply early, because some schools reserve their biggest awards for students who submit everything by priority deadlines. Bottom line: focus on academics, find schools that want to compete for you, and cast a wide net when applying to scholarships so you give yourself the best chance at graduating debt free.
Jackson Lagerwey
Consulting
32
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jackson’s Answer
Hey Zae'onna,
I was in your shoes 6 years ago when applying to colleges, so I can give you my advice on how I was able to succeed in finding scholarships. I also think a lot has changed since then and you have a bunch of tools at your disposal to now take advantage of.
To begin, something I didn't have access to was ChatGPT, which I think is going to be very useful for your college search. Here's a quick prompt I made on ChatGPT for example that can help tailor a response for you:
Prompt to paste into ChatGPT:
"I am a high school student looking for colleges where I have a strong chance at large merit scholarships or a full ride. Please tailor recommendations to my profile below and focus on schools known for generous merit aid.
My profile:
GPA (unweighted and weighted):
Test scores (SAT or ACT with breakdowns, or test optional):
Class rank or percentile:
Rigor (AP/IB/dual enrollment/honors and how many):
Intended major or academic interests:
Notable activities and leadership:
Awards or distinctions:
State of residence and citizenship:
Financial need info (EFC or FAFSA SAI if known; ability to pay per year):
Background (first-gen, underrepresented background, low income, military dependent, National Merit status, homeschooled, etc.):
Preferences (region, campus size, urban vs. suburban vs. rural, public vs. private, religious affiliation, distance from home):
Willing to apply by early action or early decision:
Number of applications I can realistically submit:
Willing to consider automatic merit schools that require early applications:
Comfort level with extremely selective schools:
What I want from you:
A ranked list of 12 to 18 colleges grouped into Full-Ride Targets, High Merit Likely, Match With Merit Potential, and Reach With Merit Upside.
For each school, include:
Typical merit programs that could fit me (name of scholarship, award range, and whether it covers tuition, fees, housing, and meals).
Estimated likelihood bands for admission and for the scholarship based on my profile (for example: admission strong, scholarship moderate).
Key scholarship requirements (separate application, essays, interview, portfolio, test required, National Merit finalist, early deadline).
Deadlines I should know.
A brief note on why I am a fit.
A short list of automatic or near-automatic merit options I qualify for based on GPA/test thresholds, with what they would likely cover.
Application strategy in 6 to 8 bullets that maximizes scholarship chances. Include early action timing, which schools to prioritize, and how to balance reach vs. safety.
Essay guidance in 3 bullets tied to merit themes such as leadership, impact, service, and fit with the scholarship’s mission.
Testing advice if a small score increase could unlock higher awards at specific schools.
A 30-60-90 day timeline from now through scholarship deadlines.
Present the school list in a table with columns: School, Category, Merit Program, Typical Award, Coverage, Est. Admit Odds, Est. Scholarship Odds, Deadline, Extra Steps.
Constraints and notes
Prioritize cost after aid and likelihood of merit, not just prestige.
Favor schools known for strong merit (for example, competitive flagship honors, automatic merit grids, National Merit packages, full-ride competitions).
If you are unsure about a detail, say so and suggest how I can verify it on the college’s scholarship page.
Keep explanations concise and action oriented."
Now, that prompt helps with finding which schools are a good fit, but in general, there are things you need to do to boost your chances as a candidate. Work hard in school so you can achieve the highest grades possible, allowing your profile to standout academically. Explore your extracurricular passions and interests outside of the classroom that show your character as a whole. For example, if you really enjoy debate, be sure to join the debate team and compete etc. Additionally, try to do some form of community service. Also, make sure that you give yourself enough time to write all of your essays to make sure they are in the best spot before you send in your application.
This is some general advice, but hopefully it helps!
I was in your shoes 6 years ago when applying to colleges, so I can give you my advice on how I was able to succeed in finding scholarships. I also think a lot has changed since then and you have a bunch of tools at your disposal to now take advantage of.
To begin, something I didn't have access to was ChatGPT, which I think is going to be very useful for your college search. Here's a quick prompt I made on ChatGPT for example that can help tailor a response for you:
Prompt to paste into ChatGPT:
"I am a high school student looking for colleges where I have a strong chance at large merit scholarships or a full ride. Please tailor recommendations to my profile below and focus on schools known for generous merit aid.
My profile:
GPA (unweighted and weighted):
Test scores (SAT or ACT with breakdowns, or test optional):
Class rank or percentile:
Rigor (AP/IB/dual enrollment/honors and how many):
Intended major or academic interests:
Notable activities and leadership:
Awards or distinctions:
State of residence and citizenship:
Financial need info (EFC or FAFSA SAI if known; ability to pay per year):
Background (first-gen, underrepresented background, low income, military dependent, National Merit status, homeschooled, etc.):
Preferences (region, campus size, urban vs. suburban vs. rural, public vs. private, religious affiliation, distance from home):
Willing to apply by early action or early decision:
Number of applications I can realistically submit:
Willing to consider automatic merit schools that require early applications:
Comfort level with extremely selective schools:
What I want from you:
A ranked list of 12 to 18 colleges grouped into Full-Ride Targets, High Merit Likely, Match With Merit Potential, and Reach With Merit Upside.
For each school, include:
Typical merit programs that could fit me (name of scholarship, award range, and whether it covers tuition, fees, housing, and meals).
Estimated likelihood bands for admission and for the scholarship based on my profile (for example: admission strong, scholarship moderate).
Key scholarship requirements (separate application, essays, interview, portfolio, test required, National Merit finalist, early deadline).
Deadlines I should know.
A brief note on why I am a fit.
A short list of automatic or near-automatic merit options I qualify for based on GPA/test thresholds, with what they would likely cover.
Application strategy in 6 to 8 bullets that maximizes scholarship chances. Include early action timing, which schools to prioritize, and how to balance reach vs. safety.
Essay guidance in 3 bullets tied to merit themes such as leadership, impact, service, and fit with the scholarship’s mission.
Testing advice if a small score increase could unlock higher awards at specific schools.
A 30-60-90 day timeline from now through scholarship deadlines.
Present the school list in a table with columns: School, Category, Merit Program, Typical Award, Coverage, Est. Admit Odds, Est. Scholarship Odds, Deadline, Extra Steps.
Constraints and notes
Prioritize cost after aid and likelihood of merit, not just prestige.
Favor schools known for strong merit (for example, competitive flagship honors, automatic merit grids, National Merit packages, full-ride competitions).
If you are unsure about a detail, say so and suggest how I can verify it on the college’s scholarship page.
Keep explanations concise and action oriented."
Now, that prompt helps with finding which schools are a good fit, but in general, there are things you need to do to boost your chances as a candidate. Work hard in school so you can achieve the highest grades possible, allowing your profile to standout academically. Explore your extracurricular passions and interests outside of the classroom that show your character as a whole. For example, if you really enjoy debate, be sure to join the debate team and compete etc. Additionally, try to do some form of community service. Also, make sure that you give yourself enough time to write all of your essays to make sure they are in the best spot before you send in your application.
This is some general advice, but hopefully it helps!
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello again, Zae'onna !
There are ways to do college without getting in debt if that is what you really want to do. You didn't mention your State, but there are some special programs in some States that offer no tuition to qualifying students. You'd have to be eligible and apply and I do not know how many slots are allotted at any colleges, so you'd have to research this for your State. It's based on low income and you'd have to find out the requirements from each college.
New York State has the Excelsior Scholarship, covering tuition at State University of New York (SUNY) and City University of New York (CUNY) institutions for students from families earning up to $125,000, with a commitment to live and work in New York for an equivalent number of years after graduation.
Tennessee offers the Tennessee Promise, providing free community college. Oregon has the Oregon Promise, which covers tuition at community colleges. New Mexico has established the Opportunity Scholarship and the Lottery Scholarship for free tuition. Arkansas offers free tuition at the University of Arkansas for residents whose family income is under $70,000. Colorado's Promise program covers tuition and fees for students in their first two years at community colleges, four year colleges, and technical colleges. Virginia's G3 assistance program provides tuition-free degrees in specific fields like healthcare and IT. The California College Promise Grant is a need-based grant that waives enrollment fees for low-income California residents attending community colleges. So depending on the State you are a resident of, you can start with Community College.
Mostly all students apply for Federal Student Financial Aid and the monies are in the form of Grants, Work Study and Loans. It's the loans that you'll want to avoid. You can attend a Loan Free college or do not apply for the Loan - Loan Refusal. You will have to speak with a college's Financial Aid Department about Loan Refusal and Federal Student Financial Aid for details. It's best speaking directly with the college you intend to enroll in.
You mentioned Full Ride Scholarships for free tuition. That would still be something you'd have to apply for and wait to hear back if you've been granted the scholarship or not. The requirements for this vary greatly depending on who is offering the scholarship and the type of scholarship. Again, you have to speak with a college representative about this. To qualify for a Full Ride Scholarship, students need to have had academic excellence, financial need, specific talents, or other unique qualifications. It means having a very high GPA and high SAT score. There are indeed Full Ride scholarships based on financial need, though. Speak with the college you intend to go to. Their Financial Aid Office can give you specific details that you will need. Free Ride scholarships tend to be very competitive.
If your college will be in a State that I didn't previously mention, call a college and ask about any no tuition programs they may offer. This is really something that you're going to have to do first hand if you really want free tuition.
I hope this helps in general and I wish you all the best !
There are ways to do college without getting in debt if that is what you really want to do. You didn't mention your State, but there are some special programs in some States that offer no tuition to qualifying students. You'd have to be eligible and apply and I do not know how many slots are allotted at any colleges, so you'd have to research this for your State. It's based on low income and you'd have to find out the requirements from each college.
New York State has the Excelsior Scholarship, covering tuition at State University of New York (SUNY) and City University of New York (CUNY) institutions for students from families earning up to $125,000, with a commitment to live and work in New York for an equivalent number of years after graduation.
Tennessee offers the Tennessee Promise, providing free community college. Oregon has the Oregon Promise, which covers tuition at community colleges. New Mexico has established the Opportunity Scholarship and the Lottery Scholarship for free tuition. Arkansas offers free tuition at the University of Arkansas for residents whose family income is under $70,000. Colorado's Promise program covers tuition and fees for students in their first two years at community colleges, four year colleges, and technical colleges. Virginia's G3 assistance program provides tuition-free degrees in specific fields like healthcare and IT. The California College Promise Grant is a need-based grant that waives enrollment fees for low-income California residents attending community colleges. So depending on the State you are a resident of, you can start with Community College.
Mostly all students apply for Federal Student Financial Aid and the monies are in the form of Grants, Work Study and Loans. It's the loans that you'll want to avoid. You can attend a Loan Free college or do not apply for the Loan - Loan Refusal. You will have to speak with a college's Financial Aid Department about Loan Refusal and Federal Student Financial Aid for details. It's best speaking directly with the college you intend to enroll in.
You mentioned Full Ride Scholarships for free tuition. That would still be something you'd have to apply for and wait to hear back if you've been granted the scholarship or not. The requirements for this vary greatly depending on who is offering the scholarship and the type of scholarship. Again, you have to speak with a college representative about this. To qualify for a Full Ride Scholarship, students need to have had academic excellence, financial need, specific talents, or other unique qualifications. It means having a very high GPA and high SAT score. There are indeed Full Ride scholarships based on financial need, though. Speak with the college you intend to go to. Their Financial Aid Office can give you specific details that you will need. Free Ride scholarships tend to be very competitive.
If your college will be in a State that I didn't previously mention, call a college and ask about any no tuition programs they may offer. This is really something that you're going to have to do first hand if you really want free tuition.
I hope this helps in general and I wish you all the best !
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Federal Contract Admin
230
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Hello,
Depending on the state you live in you may qualify for grants. As a high school student, start taking dual credit classes now and save time and money by getting college credits asap. Look into the CLEP test too. Consider various branches of the military/state guard or reserves. They will cover your college tuition as well.
Depending on the state you live in you may qualify for grants. As a high school student, start taking dual credit classes now and save time and money by getting college credits asap. Look into the CLEP test too. Consider various branches of the military/state guard or reserves. They will cover your college tuition as well.
Phill Pezo
Industrial Design
103
Answers
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Phill’s Answer
Hey Zae'onna,
It is great to hear that you were thinking about your financial situation in the future as college can be very expensive. There are numerous things you can do to prevent having so much debt.
Scholarships are a great way to start. There’s a good chance your school offers them and if not be sure to do a lot of searching online. Look up some of the best scholarships that you can apply for. You should be applying to as many as you possibly can. Whether they are big or small scholarships, it is important to put your effort into all of them.
You can also look into community college. It is a much more affordable option. You don’t have to stay at just a community college if you don’t want to, you can go to a different college and take your prerequisite courses at a community college, and then transfer those credits over. This is a very common practice that people do to save money, I had done it for one class and I wish I had done it for more.
You can also consider online schooling. If your program allows you to do online schooling, there’s a chance it would be cheaper. You can also consider working while you study. This is also a very common practice people do in order to go to college and if you do it online, you might have more flexible time.
Best of luck on your journey!
It is great to hear that you were thinking about your financial situation in the future as college can be very expensive. There are numerous things you can do to prevent having so much debt.
Scholarships are a great way to start. There’s a good chance your school offers them and if not be sure to do a lot of searching online. Look up some of the best scholarships that you can apply for. You should be applying to as many as you possibly can. Whether they are big or small scholarships, it is important to put your effort into all of them.
You can also look into community college. It is a much more affordable option. You don’t have to stay at just a community college if you don’t want to, you can go to a different college and take your prerequisite courses at a community college, and then transfer those credits over. This is a very common practice that people do to save money, I had done it for one class and I wish I had done it for more.
You can also consider online schooling. If your program allows you to do online schooling, there’s a chance it would be cheaper. You can also consider working while you study. This is also a very common practice people do in order to go to college and if you do it online, you might have more flexible time.
Best of luck on your journey!