Least Expensive College Options Near NYC

I'm a Manhattanite looking to stay near NYC for college. Cost is a big concern for me though, so I'd really appreciate if anyone could suggest the least expensive colleges near NYC.

One option to consider is the City University of New York (CUNY) system. Its 25 campuses spread across New York City offer a wide variety of programs at reasonable prices, especially for in-state students. The tuition for NYC residents is about $3,465 per semester for a full-time student, which is substantially lower than most private institutions. Some specific campuses you might consider include Baruch College, known for its business program, and Hunter College, which offers a wide range of liberal arts and science programs.

In addition, the State University of New York (SUNY) system might be worth a look. While not directly in the city, several campuses are within reasonable commuting distance. For example, SUNY Purchase is approximately an hour away and offers a variety of arts and liberal arts programs. In-state tuition rates for SUNY schools are also quite affordable, sitting at around $7,070 per year for a full-time student.

Another more unconventional, yet cost-effective, option would be to consider community colleges, such as Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) or Kingsborough Community College. Tuition is often substantially lower and you can typically transfer credits to a four-year school later on.

Remember, this is just the sticker price and doesn't take into account any potential financial aid you might receive. Be sure to complete the FAFSA and use schools' net price calculators to get a more accurate estimation of your costs.