Deciding whether to go to college, to continue in education for 4 more years, is one of those really big crossroads decisions that people face in life. It is an emotional, social, spiritual, intellectual and fundamentally a financial decision. It is an investment decision, because you are putting money into your brain asset now in order to earn far greater (hopefully) returns throughout the rest of your working life. The risk with this investment is of course debt. Some fortunate folks start out with enough money, from parents or whoever, to finance their intellectual investment without borrowing. Most folks however will have to take on some debt. Private colleges can mean up to $100,000 or more. It is always best to have an investment repayment plan worked out ahead of enrolment and college financial aid offices can help.
One of the best college financial aid strategies, especially if attending a private college, is to get as many scholarships as possible. Scholarships are a lot more attractive than loans since scholarships represent free money; it never, ever has to be paid back. Most colleges offer both need-based and merit-based financial aid. Need-based aid is usually based on how much money your parents make and how many siblings you have, since your parents are expected to help pay for your education and the education of your siblings. Even if your parents aren't helping to pay for your education at all, the system still stipulates that they do.
The second grant type is that which is awarded on what you may have achieved previously in your education and is given for academic, sporting or other excellence. It is more likely that you will be able to try for this type of scholarships if you plan to go to a private school as these types of establishments are more likely to have wealthy connections, old scholars and similar who set up these grants and which bear their name. The sums involved can be significant and may help you considerably with your yearly fees
Also, don't be afraid to look for college financial aid in the form of scholarships in odd places either. Look around your hometown for different community organizations who offer scholarships like the Knights of Columbus or the Humane Society. Though these sorts of community organizations may not be able to contribute thousands upon thousands of dollars in scholarships, every little bit helps, especially when it doesn't have to be repaid.
Finally, if scholarships and your savings aren't enough to cover your college expenses you'll probably have to apply for a student loan. First, finish the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) to see which federal loans you qualify for. Someone at your college financial aid office can then advise you what loans would suit you best and even when to start paying them off. Though paying for college can be scary, it's still one of the most worthwhile investments you can make. - 15485
One of the best college financial aid strategies, especially if attending a private college, is to get as many scholarships as possible. Scholarships are a lot more attractive than loans since scholarships represent free money; it never, ever has to be paid back. Most colleges offer both need-based and merit-based financial aid. Need-based aid is usually based on how much money your parents make and how many siblings you have, since your parents are expected to help pay for your education and the education of your siblings. Even if your parents aren't helping to pay for your education at all, the system still stipulates that they do.
The second grant type is that which is awarded on what you may have achieved previously in your education and is given for academic, sporting or other excellence. It is more likely that you will be able to try for this type of scholarships if you plan to go to a private school as these types of establishments are more likely to have wealthy connections, old scholars and similar who set up these grants and which bear their name. The sums involved can be significant and may help you considerably with your yearly fees
Also, don't be afraid to look for college financial aid in the form of scholarships in odd places either. Look around your hometown for different community organizations who offer scholarships like the Knights of Columbus or the Humane Society. Though these sorts of community organizations may not be able to contribute thousands upon thousands of dollars in scholarships, every little bit helps, especially when it doesn't have to be repaid.
Finally, if scholarships and your savings aren't enough to cover your college expenses you'll probably have to apply for a student loan. First, finish the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) to see which federal loans you qualify for. Someone at your college financial aid office can then advise you what loans would suit you best and even when to start paying them off. Though paying for college can be scary, it's still one of the most worthwhile investments you can make. - 15485
About the Author:
Jimmy Johnson is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about Loan Calculators visit Money Talks for current articles and discussions.
