Think outside the traditional paying for college box 📦
Let’s be honest. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to afford college. After all, for the 2022-2023 academic year, the all-in cost of attendance for an on-campus student at Boston University is listed at $82,760[1]. That’s for one-year 😲. Let that sink in.
You can do the math. For many families, that type of cost is not affordable, at least without taking out massive loans. However, the value of a college education is still just as valuable as ever. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, a 4-year college graduate has median earnings 67% higher than someone with just a high school diploma[2].
How do we solve this problem? Let’s think outside the box. Let me take you through 3 ideas to help cut the cost, and still help your child to that valuable 4-year college degree 🎓
How it works:
- First two years at a Massachusetts community college, final two years at a state university or UMass Amherst.
- If your graduates with a B average with their associates degree, they’ll have guaranteed admission to a state university or UMass to complete their junior and senior years
Why consider it: Community college costs are substantially cheaper than 4-year colleges. For students still unsure of a major, starting at a community college is a great way to explore career paths and stay within your budget
How it works:
- ROTC programs fund students’ tuition and room and board through a 4-year education in exchange for military service after graduation
- Available for the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, Coast Guard or Air Force
- Service obligations post-graduation vary between 3-10 years depending on scholarship acceptance and military branch
Why consider it: Graduating with a 4-year degree and a guaranteed post-college career can be extremely valuable, especially with no student loan debt.
3. GI Bill
How it works:
- For those that serve in active duty, they are eligible for payment of tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance and a stipend for textbooks at public universities
- Eligibility
- 40% - Minimum requirement of at least 90 days of active service
- 100% - Full benefit with 3 years of active service
Why consider it: Service out of high school requires a commitment but can provide very rewarding educational benefits in the long run.
Have questions about what opportunities that may be available to your child? Feel free to reach out, I’m happy to help!
All the best,
Andrew Holmes, Certified College Planning Specialistâ„¢
Andrew@PlanWithFPS.com
860-878-7032
Sources
[1] https://www.bu.edu/finaid/aid-basics/cost-of-attendance/undergraduate/
[2] https://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2020/data-on-display/education-pays.htm