Home Education Research

Posts Tagged ‘College Costs’

Who isn’t feeling the economic crunch? College funds have dwindled, investments have taken a hit, and job layoffs continue to add to feelings of economic instability. Parents with children headed to college this year or next are wondering how to cut college costs. It has led some families to discourage their children from applying to schools they don’t feel they can afford, even with financial aid and scholarships. Paying for college is a real concern.

Here are twelve tips to help parents cut college costs-

1. Encourage high school students to study hard and make the best grades possible in challenging classes. Students should also try to get the best SAT and ACT scores. This may require test prep or tutoring, but it is worth the money. Often times merit scholarships are based on grades and test scores.

2. Start searching for scholarships early in high school. Many are available to students from 9th through 12th grade. Look into organizations that sponsor scholarships such as Rotary Clubs and the Elks. Even if the scholarship is a small amount, it may help to pay for books and supplies. This helps cut college costs.

3. Make sure students meet all deadlines for signing up for the SAT and ACT as well as for college applications and scholarships. Don’t incur late fees or lose out altogether. Those $16 late fees add up and don’t help to cut college costs.

4. Look at schools where your student can graduate in four years. Most students take five or six years. This can add two additional years of tuition and living expenses. Schools that are committed to seeing their students graduate in four years can save you a lot of money. This may cut college costs more than anything.

5. Help students find schools that are a good match. Transferring to another school can lead to lost credits and additional expenses. Educational consultants are experts at helping students find schools that are a good fit and where they will want to spend four years. To find qualified consultants in your state, go to www.hecaonline.org.