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How should I get through college without taking out student loans?

I'm applying for as many scholarships as possible, though I'm still anxious about my financial future; I don't want to be buried in debt and interest!

#Fall25

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Paul’s Answer

Much of successful scholarship attainment, has to do with where you look for the scholarships. They can come from two primary sources, either private or public. One area people might not know about is the College Foundation option, at local colleges and universities.

College Foundations connect many of their scholarships to specific subjects, activities, majors, ethnicities and classifications. These are normally scholarships, that are supported by private individuals or businesses.

You might find scholarships for students who are first generation college students (neither parent has a college degree), students who are focusing their major on teaching, science subjects, engineering or radiology, or students who might be of a certain ethnicity.

Most of the time potential applicants can find nearly anything that fits into a classification or subject that defines them or their future goals.

All colleges and universities have foundations that offer scholarships. I would log into the website (of the college you are attending or wishing to attend), and research the ones which apply to you and your particular interests.
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Jacob’s Answer

Your best bet is to look at community colleges and state schools in your state. These are the cheapest options and provide basically the same value as other more expensive schools - for most fields. These need to be in your state so that you can get the resident price. One good option is to start with a local, quality, community college, get about 50% of your credits there, and then transfer to a state school. My state has programs specifically for this where you take most of the first two years of classes at a community college with some major specific classes at the state school until you switch full time to the four year school. It's all managed by schools, offers considerable savings, and results in the same degree from the state school. Most scholarships you already have or will get should apply to any accredited school.

Here is an example from my localish area (just tuition):
1 year (3 terms) at Oregon State University: $13,191
1 year (3 terms) At Linn Benton Comm. College: $5,675

If you took 2 years at each, that would be: $37,732
This is basically the cost of a new car - which most folks pay off in 5 or 6 years, very reasonable.

Now lets look at the same university, but at the out-of-state costs:
1 year (3 terms) at Oregon State University: $35,664

That is a single year, not including food, shelter, books and other stuff - just tuition.

Your best bet is to stay local.
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Karen’s Answer

Great you are planning ahead. By asking the question, you've taken the first step.

Suggest you open a new savings account at your local bank. While you won't earn a lot of interest, your money will grow if you regularly make small contributions. Think about a per centage you will pay yourself from every time you earn or receive $. This can include asking for cash for holidays, running errands for family and neighbors, or maybe a part-time job.

Doing scholarship applications is also well worth your time and include programs that might be less than 4 years, local community colleges or online universities. The more flexible you can be, the greater chance of gaining an education that will help to provide a valuable career.

With every good wish and many blessings!
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