How to Graduate College Without Debt

DEBT FREE degree KEEPING COLLEGE AFFORDABLE DEBT PREP 101: PLAN BEFORE SPENDING Before sending college applications make a start saving specifically for college budget for all college find ways to reduce costs expsenses Planning is crucial to graduating debt-free LOWER TUITION & FEES Apply for in-state public schools Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) Determines your specific financial aid savings per university National average tuition costs per year Public In-State: $8,893 Some universities will negotiate financial aid savings if: • You're a good student with merit Public Out-of-State: $22,203| Private: $30,094| • You contact your top institution with proof of cheaper options Scholarships and grants: apply, apply, apply Military opti Reserve Officer Training Corps military scholarship Free money you don't have to pay back No Brainers: Athletic and Academics scholarships • Full tuition for 4 years of college Get creative, scholarships are available for practically everything: • 4 year military obligation upon graduation, commissioned as Officers Left handed, vegetarian, liking grapes, and being tall DON'T FORGET RENT • Work as an RA in the dorms (Resident Advisor or Assistant) Free room and board + small stipend National average dorm costs per year Public In-State: $9,498 Public Out-of-State: $9,498 • Live with parents for free Private: $10,823| • Live off-campus with roommates COLLEGE LIFE live like a poor college student, 'cause get a job you are опе • Books Rent or buy used books online Work part-time (20hrs / week) during classes • Transportation Many universities offer free shuttle services to students Work full-time (40hrs / week) during summers • Free college events often have free food Look into University jobs with perks Scholarships Free meal plans • Don't get a credit card Credit cards may prove to be too tempting to someone who has little experience managing Free Room and Board money AFTER ALL THAT BUDGETING If you're still short on tuition money, don't take the full amount offered in student loans, only take what you need Affordable-Online-Colleges.net Sources DEVELOPED BY trends.collegeboard.org/college-pricing/figures-tables/average-estimated-undergraduate-budgets-2013-14 NOWSOURCING