Below are several important tips on how to plan ahead and cut college costs:
1. Start Planning Early
Earn college credits while you are still in high school and graduate on time! Graduating on time and earning credits for college will put you ahead of the game and help reduce tuition expenses. Make the most out of each semester by taking as many credits as possible and explore summer course options. AP (Advanced Placement) and CLEP (College Level Examination Program) are courses to explore for earning credits.
For more information on AP courses, click here.
For more information on CLEP, click here.
2. Economize
Consider housing and meal costs. If possible, go for less expensive living by choosing modest accommodations and cheaper meal plans. Also consider living off campus rather than "on", or start preparing your own meals or be a resident adviser (a volunteer position) and get free room and board. Also, a college closer to home will cut down on travel time and travel expenses.
3. Contact Financial Aid
If you and your family are having financial difficulties, then it is a good idea to meet with your financial aid advisor to explore options based on your eligibility. Payment deferment plans or monthly installment plans may be available at your college. Almost every college Web site has a "financial aid office" link. Use it! If not, then visit them in person.
4. Work While You Study = "Work Study"
Inquire at the student employment office about job opportunities both on and off campus. They should be able to find you part-time work. Worried that you won't have time to do everything? Studies show that students who work part-time do better academically in their college years than those who don't.
5. Scholarships
Winning scholarships is a great way to reduce college tuition costs. At Kweller Prep (www.KwellerPrep.com), we "handhold" our students though a customized and tedious scholarship search. But you can also conduct some of the search on your own. Stay aware of what scholarships may be available to you and make sure that you meet the deadlines. It is strongly recommended that you work with a college advisor or counselor who will be able to guide you through the application and writing process (or use Kweller Prep!) Having the help of someone who is experienced in helping students secure scholarships can help you get the most out of each application and fully show your potential as a candidate for admissions.
Use the Scholarship Search on College Board's Web site. Also, Fast web (www.Fastweb.com) and scholarships (www.scholarships.com) are excellent sources to start your scholarship research.
For those seeking a book filled with brief descriptions of some of the numerous scholarships available out there, you can order "The Scholarship Handbook," published by the College Board.
6. Get a Good Deal on Necessities
Be thrifty about school supply spending. Consider used books and discounted supplies to save money. There are numerous websites that offer textbooks at discounted rates. School suppliers have seasonal deals so it may be wise to stock up and plan ahead. Also consider auction sites for good deals. Also shop around for travel deals and special student rates.
For starters here are two Web sites that offer discounted textbooks: alibris.com and half.com.
Of course, there is also always ebay....
7. Start a Budget & Stick to It!
It's a good idea to begin keeping track of what you are spending money on. Keep a diary or create a spreadsheet to track your expenses and stay aware of how much you are spending.
The Microsoft Office Web site has a variety of templates to choose from for budgets and expense tracking.
8. Join the Army!
The Army offers a multitude of scholarships not only for those enlisted, but also for their families. They can even help you reduce grocery costs, travel more cheaply, and help you secure your first home with a lower mortgage rate! Visit their Web site for a glimpse of what more is offered. For those considering military service, contact the campus ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps).
For more information on receiving scholarships through the military, click here.
The Kweller Prep Staff wishes you lots of luck as you enter college and participate in this exciting endeavor! Have fun, but don't go broke!
