How to Beat Rising Education Costs

The high cost of a college education seems to dampen people's hope of achieving higher education. Many families struggle just to put their children through college. When people think of college do they see a price tag, or a priceless experience that will change their future? It is upsetting to think that a people may not be able to further their education based solely upon whether or not they are able to afford the costs. Although higher education is extremely pricey, there are options available to help make it more affordable. In this essay, I will be discussing how to beat high college costs by utilizing financial aid, setting a budget and planning ahead.

FINANCIAL AID

Financial aid has become a huge factor in whether or not a person is able to attend college at all. "In 1970, financial aid to all students was equivalent to $11.15

UGA students at ASAP conference

Group of Woodbine Agricultural School students, Wo...

Auburn University students at ASAP conference

billion in constant 1998 dollars, but that figure increased dramatically as more students began enrolling in two- and four-year colleges and universities. By 1998-99, the total amount of financial aid available to students had reached $61.8 billion. A year later, 56 percent of all undergraduates were receiving it (Hickey, 2002, Para. 3)." Financial aid can greatly affect a student's plans to attend college, so it is imperative for a student to obtain as much information as possible regarding financial aid options.

Financial aid comes in many different forms. The Free Application for Financial Student Aid is the first thing that should be completed in the financial aid process. The Free Application for Financial Student Aid is widely referred to as the FAFSA. The FAFSA can qualify people for a Pell Grant, student loans, and work study. FAFSA can be filed electronically (online) or by filling out the paper...