06/10/2024
Hello new Monarchs! Stumped on how to pay for college? Here’s some proven tips to help pay for college:
1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Before doing anything else, take the time to fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). A successfully completed FAFSA opens the door to a host of financial assistance from federal, state, and local governments, including student loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
2. Study Scholarship Sources
Scholarships provide free money to help pay higher education expenses. Unlike loans, you don’t have to pay back scholarships. FAFSA is one way to connect with scholarship money set aside by governments and schools. Another way is to locate privately funded scholarships.
3. Find Other Cost-Saving Options
AP courses consist of college-level work and a year-end test. Scoring well on the test means you could earn college credit for various subjects, including math, science, English, history, language, or art.
Dual-credit courses involve a high school’s partnership with a nearby university. In this scenario, a professor teaches the class, which satisfies the requirements for high school graduation while providing college credit.
Attending a local community college can be a great way to cut higher education costs! Most community colleges offer two-year programs for less tuition than the same courses at a four-year college. Upon completing the program, you can transfer as many as 60 credits to a four-year college and enter as a junior.
4. Explore Work-Study Options
With a work-study program, you’re employed by your college or university for a certain number of hours a week and the federal government supports your salary. Once again, information on the FAFSA determines eligibility for a work-study program. If approved, it will be offered as part of a government-backed package, including loans, scholarships, and grants.