5 Ways to Get Though Online College Debt Free
A college education isn't cheap – even if it is obtained through an online college. However, you don't need to pull out a second mortgage on your house or have you and your child take out thousands of dollars in student loan debt simply to put your kid through school. There are several easy ways, including the following five, to put your kid through college debt free:
Fill Out the FAFSA
If you kid don't fill out the FAFSA, they could miss out on thousands of dollars in free educational assistance. Even if you believe that you and your spouse make too much money, it is always a good idea to still fill it out. Because of the downturned economy, the federal government is aware that many families are suffering and are unable to pay for their children to go to college. Aid is definitely available, and even if your child isn't eligible to receive scholarships and grants, they may still be able to receive low interest loans to pay for school if they have no other option.
Apply for Scholarships
Your child doesn't have to be the best high school athlete the state has ever seen or hold a 4.0 and score a 36 on the ACT to receive a scholarship. There are thousands of dollars in scholarships awaiting those who simply apply, and most have very lenient requirements. Many scholarship contests, such as those found on FastWeb.com and Scholarships.com, only require applicants to submit a 500 word essay to have the chance to receive a scholarship ranging from $500 to $10,000.
Take Courses While in High School
If your child is in a few more advanced classes while still in high school, see if they can take courses for both high school and college level credit. Most high schools with IB and AP courses have dual credit options, and the courses cost a quarter of what they would if your child were to take them on-campus. Taking these courses in advance will also reduce the time your child will need to spend obtaining their degree which also makes the price of their education less expensive.
Sign-Up for State Programs
Numerous states have programs designed to provide educational assistance to their residents who choose to stay in state. Programs range anywhere from providing two free years at a community college in exchange for mentoring hours to free tuition for graduating within a certain time frame. Have your child ask their school's counselor if your state offers any programs. You can also research such programs on your state's government or education website.
Get a Part-Time Job
There is no harm in having your child work for their education. Most schools, including online colleges, will allow students to set up payment programs to make covering the high expenses associated with tuition easier to pay for. Not only will working for their education allow your child to exit school debt free, but they will also appreciate the education they received that much more.
Having a degree is more important than ever when trying to secure a position in today's job market. Those without degrees are finding it harder and harder to get hired or receive the promotions they so direly need. However, receiving a college education can come with a huge burden of debt that can be limiting once graduates are in the real world. Make sure that your child has the best chance at real-world success by ensuring that they receive a quality education, and do so without having to pull out thousands of dollars in burdensome student loans.
By: Nancy Claire - Degree Jungle writer, teacher, and researcher.
