Creative Ways to Pay for College

By Cora Atkinson 

 

Tuition costs are rising every year and just being able to afford the other college related expenses like books, a new laptop, etc. can feel overwhelming and much like an insurmountable task.  But thanks to the internet and little bit of research we have compiled a list of interesting ways to help pay for college.  Do any of these seem like a fit for you?

Tuition Free Colleges

Apparently some colleges are actually free!  Copper Union located in NY, NY is one of those schools that “…admit undergraduates solely on merit and awards full scholarships to every enrolled student. In addition to the full-tuition scholarship, our institution provides financial aid to help cover costs such as room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and other personal expenses.” While this is just one such institution make sure to do your research and see what other schools may have similar opportunities. (collegeexpress.com)

Ask for Money from Friends and Family

While this is not ideal and this is something that makes you cringe at the thought of doing consider it as a way to supplement money for books and other expenses.  Instead of asking for money for graduation you can estimate the costs of books for a year or what it would cost to take an additional education trip abroad.  Not only will people be impressed at your fortitude but they may be inspired to give you more or pass on your info to other more financially stable friends.  Anything is possible and you never know until you ask.  (Financial Times)

Get free college credits in high school

Because you are already super smart and in advanced placement and honors classes you might want to check to see if those classes are available to be used as college credits.  If they are you may be able to save a few thousand dollars.  Check with your school guidance counselor/college adviser or check out the official AP website for more information. (Studentbank.com)

Consider College Grants

College grants are free –  and more importantly you don’t have to pay them back! Once you fill out the FAFSA, you are automatically in the running for federal and most state grants based on the financial information that you entered.  There are also many grants you can look at from top organizations such as the Gates Foundation.  (Studentbank.com)

Consider Applying for Local Scholarships

Sometimes we can become intimidated by scholarship programs that are from large organizations and feel our chances are slim at getting them.  Although I think it won’t hurt to try you may want to focus more of your energy on local community opportunities.  Look at local churches, some of them you don’t even have to be a member to receive one or try out a local company or organization.  Many of these places have scholarship programs and the pool of applicants is much smaller.

Bonus:  Don’t forget to apply for the Tripod Foundation Inc. scholarship program.  If you are graduating high school student from a school in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area then check out our program.