You Can Afford College

Attending college, no matter what your age, can be a daunting thought. In times when people are losing jobs and funding is drying up, it may seem impossible. And yet it is even more important during those times to get the degree that will allow you to get ahead in the job world. There are ways to reduce the costs and yet not compromise the quality of education.

The biggest cost saver can be the college you choose. Private schools are more expensive than public ones, universities are more expensive than community colleges, and online degrees typically cost more than those from brick-and-mortar colleges. But you should apply for all financial aid. A small private college may give a grant that would offset the extra costs. Maybe the extra expense of the online degree would be countered by the flexibility, allowing you to keep a job and save on gas. After receiving financial aid offers, sit down with the numbers to see what works best for you.

Then go to the school's Discovery Days. These are days throughout the summer months that allow potential students to see how the school looks, the different services available, and so on. Lots of vendors are typically around offering deals to students on these days. While some of them will cost you money (buying magazine subscriptions) and some should be examined very carefully to avoid pitfalls (credit card offers), you may find students looking for roommates and carpooling groups that can save you cash. The bookstores often give discounts on these days, as well.

Sharing costs such as rent and gas can save a lot of money. With a large enough group, everyone can save. Obviously, the system only works when you are with a group of responsible students, but even if it falls apart, it beats trying to get an apartment of your own in most college towns. If you plan to carpool, try to find a backup plan in case things go wrong there. The money saved is likely worth the trouble.

Once you've signed up for classes, you can save money with them, as well, by carefully choosing the books. First, read the instructor's notes about the books. Some may be "suggested," meaning you don't have to purchase them. For those that are required, it might be worth a stop in the campus library. Many times, older editions are available. A newer copy or the blurb on the company's website will typically tell you what is different about each version. Keep in mind that some libraries allow limited numbers of renewals, so make sure you can check the text out for the whole semester before deciding to go this way. And do check it out-don't go off the assumption that you are the only one looking for cheap texts. If you want or need to purchase a text, check online before buying at the campus bookstore. Even with shipping costs, some web stores offer better deals. The same is true at the end of the semester, when it comes to selling the books back. College bookstores usually offer little in return, and sometimes they won't accept books at all. Online book companies are typically more forgiving.

College is expensive, no doubt. But it can be well worth the costs in salary alone, not even considering knowledge and self-worth. Finding small ways to save money while attending college can add up to pretty significant savings. Don't let the costs stand in the way of your dreams.