Seeking Affordable College Options

I'm starting the whole college hunt and realized pretty quickly that colleges can be super expensive. What are some of the top cheap colleges that offer decent programs? While price is a factor, I also wouldn’t want to compromise too much on the quality of education. Any suggestions or tips would be really helpful.

There are a number of affordable colleges that also deliver strong academic programs. A few options you might want to consider are Berea College, the University of Florida, and Amherst College.

1. Berea College is a top-ranked liberal arts college in Kentucky that covers the entire tuition cost for all students through the No-Tuition Promise. They only charges for room, board and fees, which is still considerably less than most colleges. Their top programs include Business Administration, Manufacturing Technology, and Child Development.

2. University of Florida is known for its strong programs and relatively low tuition for in-state students, and relatively low out-of-state tuition (for a flagship public university).

3. Amherst College is committed to meeting 100% of the demonstrated financial need of every admitted student. While its sticker price is high, the actual cost for admitted students is often considerably lower. This financial aid package doesn't include loans, only grants that do not have to be repaid.

Generally, public universities in your home state will offer the most affordable prices, particularly if they're not in the flagship system. You can also look for colleges with strong need-based financial aid programs or merit-based scholarships. Just be aware that scholarships can be very competitive.

Another option would be getting your general education requirements out of the way at a community college before transferring to a 4-year institution. This can drastically reduce your overall college costs.

Remember to use the net price calculator on each college’s website to get a sense of what your family may be expected to contribute.

Lastly, don't forget to apply for external scholarships, which can include anything from local community scholarships to larger national contests. Every bit helps when trying to make your education more affordable. Good luck with your college search!