By Auston Nigg
Finding the right avenue to pay for college is a challenge for most future college students. Often times the high prices can be discouraging.
Follow these simple tips to help answer that scary question “how can I pay for college?” and help you obtain an affordable college tuition.
Did you know? North Central University is one of the most affordable, private Christian universities in the state of Minnesota. Download a free cost worksheet to see how you can afford your education.
1. RESEARCH SCHOLARSHIP AND GRANT OPTIONS
There are plenty of different scholarship and grant opportunities that will make the question “how do I afford college” easier to answer. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to have an affordable college tuition.
Many churches also give grants and scholarships to students who attend or are involved with that church and decide to attend an affordable christian university. There are thousands of grants out there, be sure to look into and apply for the ones that could potentially help you. And never hesitate to apply!
2. FIND A COLLEGE THAT WORKS WITH YOU
It is often helpful for students if they find a college that is willing to do what they can to help them. Private schools or affordable christian universities tend to be more focused on invidivdual students and show a great deal of care when assisting students with tuition costs. You can always contact financial aid to get help with your next steps.
A school that is willing to work with you and advise you on potential scholarships, grants, or work-study programs can be a great asset in paying for your education. It also shows that if the school is willing to do this, they are willing to invest in you and take great care of their students.
3. Seek out A WORK-STUDY or on-campus job
Work-study programs can be a great avenue to obtaining an affordable college tuition. Many public and affordable christian universities offer work-study programs that not only make tuition more affordable but allow you to gain great skills while also gaining an education.
This will help you to develop a strong work-ethic and other marketable skills while you’re still in college. This not only helps you to have an affordable college tuition, but it also prepares you for your career after graduation.
4. FIND THE RIGHT PRICE RANGE FOR YOU
It’s no secret that college is expensive. But there are different price tags. Just like buying a car or any other major purchase in your life, it is best not to shop outside your price range.
But don’t assume that the “sticker price” is the actual cost of attending any university. You will also likely have an opportunity for scholarships and financial aid.
Some universities, like North Central University, offer an academic scholarship for all students. Check out our Net Price Calculator to see how scholarships can affect the cost of college.
5. DO YOUR BEST IN SCHOOL AND ON THE SAT AND ACT
Good grades and a great SAT or ACT test score are extremely helpful in lowering your overall college costs because of the scholarships and grants that you can qualify for.
Be sure to prepare well for these tests if you have not already taken them yet, and if you have and feel that you can obtain a greater score, taking them again may not be a bad option.
Ready to look at the numbers?
See how you can afford attending a private Christian university with North Central’s free downloadable Cost Worksheet.
