Sophia AlexanderCollege is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your life, but with tuition costs rising and financial aid options sometimes falling short, many families find it hard to keep up. If federal grants, merit scholarships, and standard aid packages don’t cover everything, it’s easy to feel stuck—but there are ways to close the gap. Here are some options to explore:
Ask for More Financial Aid
Can you actually request more money from your college? Absolutely. Many families don’t realize they can appeal their financial aid offer. There are two types you can negotiate:
- Need-based aid: If your family’s financial situation has changed—like a job loss or major medical bills—reach out to the financial aid office. Provide documentation and explain how these changes impact your ability to pay for school.
- Merit-based aid: If you’ve received better offers from other schools or improved your grades, you can appeal for a higher award.
Sometimes, colleges adjust aid based on new information or special circumstances.
Take a Gap Year to Work and Save
If paying for college right now feels impossible, a gap year can help. Many students use this time to save money and gain work experience, reducing how much they need to borrow later.
Gap years are becoming more common, and many colleges allow admitted students to defer enrollment for a year—whether to travel, work, or save up.
Work During College
Believe it or not, students who work during college often perform better academically. Juggling a job forces you to manage your time well, avoiding procrastination and staying on top of assignments.
You’ve got three main options:
- On-campus jobs
- Off-campus jobs
- Paid internships
Any of these can help supplement your financial aid.
Apply for Scholarships
A lot of people think scholarships are only for high school seniors, but that’s not true. There are plenty for current college students, too—many tied to specific majors or careers (sometimes called grants or fellowships).
To find them:
- Check with your school’s financial aid office and career center.
- Ask department heads about opportunities in your field.
- Search online for “current college student scholarships.”
Borrow Wisely
If you’ve exhausted all other options and still need help, student loans can fill the gap—but borrow only what’s necessary.
Follow this order for borrowing:
- Direct Subsidized Loans (lowest rates; government covers interest while you’re in school).
- Direct Unsubsidized Loans (available to all students, but you pay the interest).
- Private loans (usually require a cosigner; shop around for the best rates).
Rule of thumb: Don’t borrow more than your expected first-year salary. The average starting salary for 2022 grads was $60,028 (per NACE), but yours could be higher or lower depending on your field and location.
Try Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding isn’t just for startups—you can use it to pay for college! Sites like these make it easier:
- GoFundMe: Share your story and goals to raise money for school.
- TakesaVillage: Funds go straight to your tuition (no personal spending).
- GiftofCollege: Lets family and friends contribute via 529 gift cards.
Check Employer Tuition Assistance
Some companies help employees (or their kids) pay for college. If you or a family member works for one of these employers, take advantage—just be aware some require you to stay with the company for a set time.
Use Payment Plans
Many colleges offer tuition payment plans, letting you spread costs over months (or even a year) with little to no interest. There’s usually a small fee ($100–$200), but it’s far cheaper than loans.
Adjust Your College Plans
If a traditional four-year school isn’t financially feasible, consider:
- Living at home (saves thousands on housing).
- Starting at community college (then transferring to a four-year school).
- Choosing a more affordable college (compare aid packages).
- Taking CLEP tests (earn credits by passing exams, reducing time and cost).
Explore Appily’s Scholarship Database
Paying for college isn’t easy, but with some effort, you can make it work. Every bit of planning helps minimize debt later.
Want to find legit scholarships fast? Check out Appily’s scholarship database—it’s packed with vetted opportunities to cut your college costs.
