Ways to Pay For College

Scholarships

The high cost of attending college is something that young people of every generation have to deal with. However, with the costs of college increasing exponentially every year, students without means are having a harder time getting a college education. One of the best ways to pay for college is through a scholarship. Most people are aware that colleges offer football scholarships to the most promising players, but what if you're not athletic? Don't give up hope. Academic scholarships are routinely available for those with high GPAs in high school. Also, special scholarships are normally available based on family need. Another thing to consider is an ROTC scholarship that will pay all your room, board, tuition, and books in exchange for a military commitment.

Grants

The federal government is kind enough to give money away free to students attending college. These usually come in the form of cash payments directly to the student's college. The maximum grant right now is just over $5,000 for a year, an amount that can help. Depending on where you attend college, the Pell Grant may decide whether or not you get to go to college at all. Other grants are available depending on your locality. For example, some states award profits from lottery revenue to students' tuition costs.

Loans

No one really likes the idea of amassing huge amounts of debt, but sometimes it is a necessity if you want to have a good life. While you are still in college, you don't have to pay on these loans, but once you graduate, the payments start, so you should have some plans for your post-college career. A variety of student loans are available through private sources as well as through the government.

Work

It's hard to go to college full time with holding a full time or part time job, but sometimes it's necessary if you believe in what you are doing. Granted, it's hard to pay for all of college this way, but if you can get your yearly costs paid down to $10,000 or $20,000, working a job will be a feasible way to close that remaining gap.