College is one of the most expensive investments anyone can take on in their lifetime. From the rising cost of tuition to demanding schedules and expectations that make working even a part-time job often difficult.
There are many ways to make some money for college. This guide will give you a few tried and true methods to earn some extra cash for college this spring.
Comparison Table
Option | Commitment | Skills needed |
---|---|---|
Live at home | Up to graduation | Interpersonal skills |
Scholarships | Varies, some require referrals/essays | Communication skills |
Make a Budget and Stick to it | Daily | Understanding of finances and spending habits |
Rent or Borrow Textbooks | Semester | None |
Share Housing | Semester, or length of the lease | Interpersonal skills |
Work Study Programs | Semester or more | Varies by position |
Interest Bearing Savings Account | Regular deposits | None |
Financial Aid | GPA and completion requirements | Repayment |
Freelance | Varies by Job | Varies by job |
Consider a Community College | 2+ years | None |
Top Picks
Best Overall Way to Save Money for College
Make a Budget and Stick to it
Anyone can do it, a great skill beyond college
Most Valuable Way to Save Money for College
Scholarships
Options available for almost any student, awards range from a few hundred to full tuition coverage
Best Budget Way to Save Money for College
Community College
Classes offered at typically 1/3 the cost of traditional 4-year universities
Tip Guide
Planning ahead for college makes paying for college less stressful. With the cost of college on a steady rise, finding ways to save money for college is rapidly becoming more important than ever before. Here are the most common costs associated with attending college.
Tuition
While the exact cost of tuition will vary from school to school, the cost of housing and books will be similar. For example, at the Community College of Philadelphia tuition for residents averages 25% lower than Delaware County Community College nearby in Media, Pennsylvania. It pays to know tuition rates before you apply to college.
Housing
There are many housing options for college students, depending on location and resources. Many 2- and 4-year colleges offer dorms. Dorms allow students to become connected to campus life, both in and out of the classroom. However, unless you land a scholarship that covers the cost of student housing, you may have to consider other options. Alternatives to student housing include living at home (with parents), sharing rental space with a roommate, or living on your own.
Books/Materials
Books and related materials can sometimes take you by surprise when attending college. Specific materials such as scientific calculators may be required for some classes. Look in the syllabus of a course to find required and suggested materials or email the professor.
Meal Plans
Everyone must eat, even college students. Larger colleges and universities have on-campus cafeterias and restaurants where students can purchase their meals. Some even offer student discounts and meal plans to make planning for meals easier. Check with the college of your choice to determine what, if any, meal plans or food options are available.
Additional Expenses
There are hidden fees in almost everything we do, and college is no different. Fees for lab use, printing documents, and parking permits are just a few of the fees that students are not always clearly made aware of when applying to college.
The Best Ways to Save Money for College
Live at Home
By far the simplest way to save money for college is to live at home with your parent(s). If the college you are attending is within a reasonable drive, consider living at home. Some of the benefits of living at home include not only rent but utility costs and even food costs.
Scholarships
Make working hard in high school pay off by applying for scholarships. Academic scholarships are offered to students based on academic performance. Other scholarships are offered based on demographics and community involvement. Athletic scholarships, while awarded based on athletic ability and achievement, usually have academic requirements as well. The award amounts of scholarships range from as low as $50 a semester to full coverage of room, board, and meal plans.
Make a Budget and Stick to it
The best way to save money for college is just like everything else, make a budget. By taking the time to figure out your income and expenses, you can find out areas where you can cut costs and where you can save. Seemingly small expenses, like premium coffee, can add up quickly. A budget helps you recognize where your money is being spent every month.
Rent or Borrow Textbooks
One of the largest college expenses aside from tuition is the cost of textbooks. It is not uncommon for textbooks to run hundreds of dollars. Save money by renting or borrowing textbooks. Common textbooks can sometimes be found in college libraries. While school bookstores and online outlets offer rental options on most textbooks.
Share Housing
With the rise in housing costs, many college students cannot afford to live by themselves. Also, college towns usually have higher than average rental rates. By renting a room or sharing living spaces with others, students can cut housing costs in half or more.
Work Study Programs
A little-known solution to the high cost of college comes in the form of work-study programs. These programs allow students to work for their college in many areas. Common college work-study programs include cafeteria workers, student services, office assistance, and resident advisors. The amount that students are paid or earn varies depending on the position, but it adds up quickly.
Interest Bearing Savings Account
If you have a savings account, make sure that it is earning you some extra money by finding a bank that offers higher interest than others. Some banks even offer savings accounts specifically designed to save for college. Making monthly deposits into an interest-bearing account, and leaving it alone, can easily earn 2% or more. Check with your bank to find out what options they offer to help you save money for college.
Financial Aid
The federal government offers students the ability to apply for financial assistance. These programs offer lower-income students the possibility of grants, money that you do not have to pay back, and low-interest loans to help pay for college. Find out if you qualify for assistance for free by checking out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
Freelance
College students that have skills in English, Math, Science, or many other subjects and skills can earn money by offering their time and skills to other students. By offering services on a freelance basis, students have control over their time and in many cases can set their own rates. Many colleges also offer tutoring services, some through freelancing and some as hourly employees.
Community College
Community Colleges offer many financial advantages and other benefits. Here are some of the pros and cons of attending a community college over a 4-year university
Pros
- Cost – tuition savings as high as 70%
- Smaller Classes
- Flexibility – evening and online classes available
Cons
- Limited Curriculum
- Lack of student activities
Conclusion
Now you know many ways to save money for college. Whether you are just starting your higher education or a seasoned college student, saving money is always a good thing. Now you have some tools to help you do just that.