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How have you guys managed to graduate from college debt-free?

I'd love all solutions! I've tried scholarships and an appeal. How many scholarships is a good amount to apply for, and what localized ones (DMV) are good to try out?

money finance financial-aid
Thank you comment icon #spring2026 Chelsie
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Guillermo’s Answer

My best advice is to look at all merit based scholarships, look at the qualifications and apply, apply, apply! You would be surprised how many scholarships only require a one paragraph response or other small activity. There are also scholarships for minorities - persons of color, first generation in the country, female, left handed - that do not have income requirements.

Also, fill out the FAFSA, even if you don't qualify for anything some scholarships require that as a step.

You can do anything you set your mind to, so dream big.
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Adisa’s Answer

Graduating from college without debt can be challenging, especially if your family is middle class. However, if your family has a lower income, financial aid and scholarships can be a big help in setting you up for success without debt. It's a great idea to apply for as many scholarships as you can to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Don't worry too much about taking loans, because once you graduate and start working with a good company, they often help with student loans. Many companies offer to pay off student loans after you've been with them for a year or more. Keep this in mind as you plan your future.
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Alejandra’s Answer

Since you are in the US, this may be hard, In my case I went to a public University, got scholarships and worked to cover my expenses while studying. I'll suggest you to check the options around you, community college may be a good option as I understand it tends to be more accessible.
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Chandler’s Answer

Employer tuition assistance is the best way I found. It paid for my schooling with a virtual credit card for tuition and my salary covered the rest. Fortunately it has become easier to ask talent acquisition through LinkedIn how much tuition assistance is covered before applying to jobs. The state paid for a couple entrepreneurship classes at community college. Employers paid for undergraduate and graduate education if it was directly applicable to my job. Hope this helps!
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