How should I pay for NJIT? (cost 38,000 altogether for one year)

Answered

I'm not an expert on anything financial aid or scholarship-wise, but I am a current college student who wishes they knew certain things before their senior year.

One way to reduce the cost of college is to find ways to save money on college credits. That way, you won't spend extra tuition money on courses you could get credit for cheaper.

Since you're still a junior, consider taking any AP courses or exams (even if self-study) during your senior year. I'm not sure if you have to pay in full or if the exam fee is covered, but spending $150 on an AP exam could typically cover a course you'd take in your first semester of college (specifically if you score a 4+). As a computer science major, you'll likely take Calculus 1 and 2 (which could be covered by AP Calc AB or BC), an English composition class (possibly covered by AP Lang, but I'm not too sure), an introductory CS class (potentially covered by AP CS A), and either a physics lab (AP Phys C: E&M and/or Mechanics) or a chemistry lab (AP Chem) in your first year for both the fall and spring semesters.

Another thing to look into (possibly later) is CLEP examinations, which are similar to AP exams in the sense that paying the fee for the exam accompanied by a good score can earn you college credit. Although, you'd have to check NJIT's policy on CLEP exams.

If you want an alternative way to save money, consider pursuing college credits at your local colleges or universities via dual enrollment, or summer courses, or even consider pursuing an Associate's degree from a CC, and then transferring to NJIT.

I personally also applied to NJIT, and despite being Pell and NJ TAG eligible, the cost was very hefty once I received my acceptance and aid offer . Consider saving your money starting now, applying for scholarships ( I like sites like Going Merry and Scholarships.com), and seeing what your situation is like with NJIT's net price calculator ( njit.studentaidcalculator.com/survey.aspx ).

If you do decide to commit to NJIT, know that there are several scholarships available if you maintain a good GPA, typically 3.0 +. My friend who attends NJIT said she was looking at a scholarship that awards Freshmen with a 3.5+ GPA. You could also appeal for more aid and money once you do get in. DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK!!! It doesn't hurt to ask for better aid, especially with your situation.

Also, since everything in college costs money, try and get a fee waiver if you can for the actual application. You can also try to get an on-campus job to pay for college.

If you want an estimate of how much aid you'll receive from FAFSA, check out their aid estimator (studentaid.gov/aid-estimator/).