Tips for Finding Money for College

It’s certainly no secret that college can be expensive. Unless you’re one of the lucky few students who gets a “full ride,” you may have to come up with some creative endeavors to get money for college. Scholarships and loans are, of course, smart where you can get them, but remember that there are some other ways to get money for college as well.   

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask

First things first, if you’re a little short on paying for college, don’t be afraid to ask others for help. Most people believe in the power of education and will be willing to help as much as they can to see you better yourself.

Start a GoFundMe or hold a fundraising event to get those last few dollars. And, don’t forget to ask your financial aid office too. Sometimes, if they know you only need a little bit more, they will do what they can to increase your aid package and get you in the door!

Make Less Money

It may sound counterintuitive, but sometimes, the reason you aren’t getting the financial aid you need is because you make too much money! Aid is generally given based on perceived need, which isn’t always indicative of a person’s reality.

Thus, sometimes, it can be good to drop a job or to get emancipated from your parents or take some other bold step that will lower your overall income. This can equate to more financial aid, but be careful; don’t make any big moves until you’re absolutely sure they would affect your financial aid in a positive and worthwhile way.

Be Smart About Textbooks

If you’ve got college paid for but are worried about how you’re going to afford your books, don’t stress. Some classes won’t even use the books you think you’re “required” to buy, so always wait until the first day of classes before you buy something you don’t actually need. If you do have to buy a book, see if you can find it at a used bookstore or online; these are almost always cheaper methods of acquiring a book than your college bookstore. Keep in mind too that many facilities rent textbooks for low prices. You can find textbooks cheap or even borrow or share with a friend, so don’t let this be the thing that keeps you from going to school.

College may be hard to pay for, but it’s worth it, so follow these tips where applicable and do whatever you can to make your education dream a reality.