Is it a good choice to go out of state?
I want to go to Denver Colorado when I graduate from High School for college. But, a lot of people are telling me not to because of the cost. I never want to limit myself for money, but I don't want to drop out after the first year because of money. I'm not rich though, I am an average income household.
#college #cost
5 answers
Kazim Reza
Kazim’s Answer
Hi Anayeli,
I always tell my kids to go out of town/state for college, it will teach them life lessons. Plus, my personal experience of going to college away from taught me life skills (how to manage friends, money, time, priority....).
Create priority chart based on following list, assigned them points based on what is important to
Major and minor, school cost, school ranking (in your selected major), cost of living, activities around town, housing options. Personally I selected my school based on the major and cost of living, I moved from northern California to Midwest, school ranking was good for my major and cost of living was significantly low compare to San Francisco.
Ultimately it is your decision. Figure out how you can afford and how student debt you want to carry at graduation. In my professional life, my work portfolio carries more weight than the name of school.
Thank you,
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James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Heading to an out-of-state college can be a fantastic adventure, but it's essential to think about the financial side of things. While studying in a different state can open up a world of exciting experiences and opportunities, it's key to balance the potential costs and benefits before deciding.
A major point to ponder is the cost of tuition and living expenses. Usually, out-of-state tuition rates are higher than in-state ones, which can make a big difference to your overall costs. Plus, living away from home can come with extra expenses like housing, transportation, and healthcare. It's vital to do your homework and compare the costs of studying in your home state versus elsewhere.
But remember, it's not all about the money. Going to college out of state can introduce you to new cultures, viewpoints, and connections that you might not find in your home state. It's a chance to broaden your mind and build independence and adaptability. Plus, some colleges or universities might have specific programs or majors that fit perfectly with your academic or career dreams.
So, when thinking about going out of state for college, here are some steps to help you make a well-informed decision:
1. Look into Financial Aid: Check out scholarships, grants, and financial aid that are specially for out-of-state students. Many colleges offer scholarships based on merit or need that can help balance the higher costs.
2. Think about Return on Investment: Weigh up the potential return on investment (ROI) of studying out of state. Look into the job market and average salaries in your chosen field in both your home state and the state where you're thinking of going to college. Compare this with any potential debt from going to an out-of-state school.
3. Reflect on Long-Term Goals: Think about your long-term dreams and how studying out of state fits in with them. Will going to a certain college or university boost your chances of reaching those dreams? Will the experiences and opportunities in another state add a lot to your personal and professional growth?
It's really important to talk openly and honestly with your family about the financial side of studying out of state. Share your worries and think about possible solutions together. Also, chat with high school counselors, college admissions officers, and financial aid advisors to get more information and advice that's specific to you.
In the end, deciding to go out of state for college should be based on a careful look at both the financial side and the potential benefits in terms of education, personal growth, and career opportunities.
Top 3 Trusted Reference Publications/Websites:
1. College Board (www.collegeboard.org)
2. U.S. News & World Report (www.usnews.com)
3. The New York Times Education Section (www.nytimes.com/section/education)
Simeon’s Answer
Veronica’s Answer
It's a good idea if you can afford it. You really need explore your options. Also, the climate in your state might different from your hometown.
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Roger’s Answer
Hi Anayeli: I raised two daughters in California. My kids attended college "out of state." And, their education was about the same price as going to college in California. Both of my daughters attended Arizona State University in Tempe. The out of state tuition was higher by going to ASU. But, all the others costs like transportation, housing, food, etc. was much cheaper in Arizona. Typically, students who go to a Cal State University need 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 years to graduate. Students at Arizona State typically graduate in 3 1/2 to 4 years so you save a year in extra tuition and housing costs.
I would research cost as to how much it is to go to school in Texas vs. how much it cost to go to school in Colorado. You might be surprised.
My daughters did not receive any scholarship money to go to Arizona State University. But, one daughter (uh, the one who was far inferior in her high school academic career compared to my other more accomplished daughter ) did receive $32,000 to go to the University of Arizona in Tucson ($8000 a year for 4 years). She turned down the University of Arizona's $32,000 and went to ASU in Tempe instead.
Oftentimes, out of state colleges are looking for out of state students to round out their student body. And, these schools provide financial incentives to attract out of state students to their campuses.
So, cost may not be a big factor going out of state.
My advice, apply to that college in Denver Colorado and see how much the total cost is compared to the colleges in Texas.
Hi Anayeli! I am currently a senior at a school that is out of state. Some schools will give you a lot of financial aid regardless of the state (especially private colleges) but others won't. At the end of the day, it's important to weigh what you want and what you think will be the most feasible. You do NOT want to leave college with thousands of dollars in loans, but you also don't want to compromise what you want too much!
Ophir Gilad