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Picking a college is an important part of a student’s life as a college education is a stepping stone to greater success in life. However one of the main stumbling blocks in obtaining a college education is of course the financial aspect. It is expensive to join full-time graduate programs or even part time courses as many working professionals are doing.

The expenses increase depending upon the institute one goes in for. So Ivy League colleges are much more expensive to join than community colleges. But an education can still be got if one goes about collecting and planning for funds. Here’s a few ways to go about it:-

•    Borrow from relatives – This is a good time to ask that favorite aunt or grandma for money to help you join college. It would help even more if they are sufficiently well off.

•    Scholarships – Probably the best way to a cheaper education is to apply for scholarship programs. Deserving students who have scored well are in a better position to build a successful case for financial aid. Target every possible scholarship you are eligible for because you never know which one might come through. Also start as early as junior so as to cover all your bases.

•    Enroll in a cheaper school – There is no doubt that some schools are more famous than others but that does not mean that you will deprive yourself of an education by enrolling in a cheaper costing educational establishment. A year’s tuition at a high end institute can cost in the range of $10000-$30000 whereas community colleges can go as low as $2000-$3000. The lowered costs coupled with any grants or scholarships will lower the cost of the education even further.

•    Cutbacks – Just like employers were cutting costs to combat the recession so also a student can do the same with basics like going in for a smaller meal plan or using cheaper forms of transport like buses and trains rather than cabs.

•    Part-time jobs – Part-time jobs are a savior for students who are struggling with their finances. Most schools don’t allow more than 20 hours of work by the student as they feel it might affect their academic performance but even 20 hours is enough to earn a few extra dollars to pay for basic expenses and even tuition if there are savings left over.

•    Cheaper student loans – Students, depending upon their age and course, can apply for loans up to $12000. And the good part is that the government has enabled easier repayments by allowing graduates to restrict their monthly payments to 15% of their incomes.

Aside from these the government has instituted various measures from its end to help out citizens who wish to avail a college education. With the introduction of the new American Opportunity tax credit, people who wish to apply for college courses will be able to get a bigger and better tax break.