Ok, so I'm starting to get stressed about the cost of college. I know there are things like scholarships, grants, and financial aid, but what kind of strategies have you guys used to pay for college, and how effective were they?
Hey there! Navigating the cost of college can be daunting, but there are a variety of resources available to help alleviate the financial burden.
Firstly, make sure you submit your FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid, as well as the CSS profile or any additional forms a particular college may require. You'll also want to look into scholarship and grant opportunities, like you mentioned: look for local, state, national, and even school-specific scholarships that may cater to your skills or interests.
Additionally, consider getting a part-time job or work-study position on campus during the school year, or working full-time during the summer. Having that extra income can help with both baseline tuition and extra expenses like room and board, books, and travel to and from campus.
Lastly, it doesn't hurt to communicate with a particular school's financial aid office. They may be able to help identify additional aid opportunities or work with you on tuition payment plans. And most importantly of all, keep track of deadlines, to make sure a chance for financial assistance doesn't accidentally pass you by.
Good luck!
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