Being accepted to college is always a reason to celebrate. After all, you worked hard to get into your chosen school. So, once the initial excitement dies down, you realize that you need a way to pay for your education. This is where fear may start to seep in, making you think you’ll never be able to really go. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to cover the cost of college without having to work two jobs. Here’s how to do it.
Student Loans
Student loans are used to cover the expense of attending college. You can apply for private student loans that can be used to pay your tuition, housing, and any other costs associated with getting your degree. Usually, the rates of private student loans are better than the ones you find at your bank or through the government. They’re also a good choice in cases where you don’t qualify for financial assistance.
Financial Aid
Financial aid offers a variety of programs to help you attend school. They also offer loan products, which are meant to be used only for educational purposes. It’s important to note that while a large percentage are approved for aid, not everyone qualifies. If you or your parents earn over a certain amount of money each year, you may be declined. It’s also important to know that while some programs, such as Pell grants, are free and don’t need to be paid back, you do need to repay federal loans. Some carry no interest whereas others may have exuberant interest rates attached to them. As you navigate this option keep in mind the element of repayment. If you want to improve your personal finances understanding debt should be a part of the conversation.
Scholarships
Scholarships are another way you can pay for your education. They’re awarded for a variety of reasons which include financial need, merit, and even for winning a contest. If you choose to apply for one, it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible. You should also try to apply to more than just one.
Making Ends Meet
Once you have funding in place, it’s time to think about daily life. If you’re going to live at home, then you don’t need to worry about housing. However, if you choose to live on campus or alone in an apartment, that’s where other expenses come into play. In the dorm, you’ll need to buy furnishings like a desk, chest of drawers, mini-fridge, and bedding. If you live in an apartment, you’ll need to pay for furnishings, power, water, and internet service. Since the additional costs can add up quickly, it’s always best to consider whether living away from home is worth it. If you’re a full-time student, you might not have the extra money to enjoy recreational activities or even eat well for that matter.
Work-Study Programs
Most colleges offer work-study programs where you can work and then have part of your earnings put towards your tuition. The specifics vary between colleges, and you might need to be at least a sophomore to apply. Furthermore, you’ll most likely have to maintain a certain GPA to qualify. If your grades start to slip, you may have to step back from your responsibilities and focus on your studies.
