How to Make College Cheaper

In these challenging economic times, the prospect of paying for college may seem even more daunting than it already did.  In an ideal world, students wouldn’t have to choose their college based on finances.  But since we’re not living in an ideal world, and the economy appears far from ideal right now, a few cost-cutting suggestions seem in order.

While it is easy to suggest you choose a school with lower tuition, or encourage you to apply for every scholarship out there, or even remind you to fill out the FAFSA early, the following suggestions are a bit less obvious, and should work at nearly any college or university.

·        Take CLEP, AP and/or IB tests and classes if you are strong in a subject.  The tests cost between $70 and $220 – still less than the tuition for a class would be.

·        Take concurrent classes if you’re eligible.  Your state may pay for it, but even if not, you’re spreading the cost of college over a broader period of time, oh, and getting used to college classes while still in high school.

·        Work more (sorry!) and/or commit more of the money you earn to college.  Spend less on cars, I-Pods, entertainment, etc.

·        Take 15+ credit hours (5 classes) each semester.  Taking only 12 hours (4 classes) will result in you spending an extra year in college!  e.g. 120 hours (a degree) = 15 hours x 8 semesters (4 years), while 120 hours = 12 hours x 10 semesters (5 years).

·        Don’t choose an unlimited meal plan unless you’re sure you’ll eat that much.  You’re likely to skip meals, eat in your room occasionally, and eat out some.  Eating out is more expensive, but if you have an unlimited meal plan you’ll be paying twice.

·        Live in one of the least expensive (but still safe) housing options.  Housing could hold the greatest potential for savings, depending on your flexibility.

·        Drink fewer Latte’s and a lot fewer beers than your peers.

·        Comparison shop online for textbooks.  It takes some work, but you can save money. It is great to buy cheap text books online to get the best deals at a very low price.

·        Use campus computer labs instead of buying your own computer.

·        Eat out where they give discounts to college students.

·        Forget IKEA for your room’s décor.  Ask your parents how they used cinder blocks and 2 by 4’s to decorate their college rooms.  And “broken-in” couches really are more comfortable than new ones.

·        Go without data on your wireless plan.

·        Get a job tutoring any subject you’re particularly good at.  Especially if you plan to teach.

Some of these suggestions may be objectionable, as they may force you to live a different lifestyle than you’re accustomed to.  In these tough economic times, some will have to choose between living the lifestyle they want, and attending the college they want.

Submit your questions to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it and visit www.collegeanswerguy.com and www.collegeprep101.com.