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You probably have worked extremely hard throughout your high school journey and in the college application process to get into your dream college. But now, you’re wondering how you’ll pay for the tuition. Here are some tips!
FAFSA
FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid and is an application that will determine if you are eligible for college-related financial support. Once you submit your application, Federal Student Aid sends your information to your potential colleges or the college you attend based on whether you are an incoming or already enrolled student. Afterward, the school will evaluate your eligibility for financial aid and how much, if you receive any, financial assistance you will get each year.
Appealing Financial Aid
If you applied for financial aid for college and did not receive the amount you expected, it is not final! Based on your situation, you can appeal or leverage the decision. Your FAFSA application does not give colleges an in-depth view of your financial situation, and if you are going through something at home, especially one that affects finances, you can contact the school’s office of financial aid and see if something can be done.
Scholarships
Scholarships can be a great way to cover parts or your entire tuition. First, apply for any scholarships offered at your college. If you have applied to all scholarships through other institutions, try to look for private scholarships. You can search for these scholarships based on your location and intended major, or through business and various organizations. Scholarships can play a major part in funding your college tuition.
Find a Job and Budget
Finding a job and budgeting can be incredibly beneficial in funding your college tuition. Finding a job can contribute to saving for your dream college as the money made in the time working will be used for tuition. If feasible, find a job early on in your high school journey, and save what you make. Try to budget your money and refrain from spending a lot on unnecessary expenses. Creating a budget will give you an overall idea of how much of your salary you can spend, and how plan on saving your money.
Gap Year
Taking a gap year may be a last resort option for many, as most would not want to wait a full year to go off to college. But, if you are facing financial issues and are keen on going to your dream college, taking a gap year can be a great option! This will be an opportunity to work and save up to go to your dream college the following year. Additionally, the extra year will give you and your family’s financial circumstances to potentially change and stabilize. Thus, taking a gap year can be a great way to pay for your college tuition stress-free!
This is an intimidating and stressful process but remember to work hard or not lose hope!
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