Get Creative as You Gear Up for College

A four-year college degree is expensive. How expensive? While the numbers vary depending on whether you attend a public or private university, or in-state or out-of-state institution, the data is sobering.

The average cost of college is $38,270 per student per year, according to Education Data Initiative, a team of researchers that collects data and statistics about the U.S. education system. The average in-state student attending a public four-year institution and living on campus spends $27,146 for one academic year, or $108,584 over four years. The average cost of in-state tuition is $9,750 per year; out-of-state tuition averages $27,457. Out-of-state students pay an average of $45,708 per year or $182,832 over four years. The average private, nonprofit university student spends $58,628 per academic year living on campus, including $38,768 for tuition and fees.

It is not surprising that the average cost of college has more than doubled since 2000. That may be one reason why college enrollment peaked at 21 million in 2010 and gradually declined to 18.9 million in 2023, according to Statista. The good news is that enrollment is expected to gradually increase as the decade progresses.

It’s easy to point fingers and play the blame game for the meteoric rise in the price of higher education. While today’s costs are daunting, there are steps you can take that will ease the financial burden. Lower your stress by learning more of the easiest ways to help pay for college now.

Federal Aid

What is the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid? The FAFSA is a free form you can submit online or by mail to apply for financial aid. The 2025-26 FAFSA is expected to be available on October 1, 2024. The 2024–25 FAFSA form launched on December 31, 2023, not October 1.

Why FAFSA? Every year, the Department of Education awards billions of dollars in financial aid to college and graduate students via grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships. If you require financial assistance to further your studies, you must submit the form. If you wish to continue receiving aid, you must also resubmit the form every year.

It is best to file as soon as you can. Financial aid is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. When the money runs out, well, it runs out. Wait, and you may miss out on valuable grants and resources.

In addition, aid from schools may have earlier deadlines than federal financial aid, so don’t delay. To learn about the best ways to save for your child’s education read here.

Leverage Your Skills Through Scholarships

There are athletic, academic, extracurricular, and student-specific scholarships. Some of these include identity-based scholarships, legacy scholarships, religious scholarships, and first-generation scholarships. Are you the first in your family to attend college? You may qualify for assistance.

Other scholarships include need-based scholarships, employer scholarships, STEM scholarships, and military scholarships.

If you are currently in high school, talk with your guidance counselor. Better yet, get to know your counselor. He or she may be able to recommend aid that's a good fit for you. And don’t stop there. You are in a scavenger hunt for funding; you are geocaching for college cash.

Are you a member of a national club or a church? Are your parents active members of a union or civic organization? Many of these groups offer scholarships to members and their children. The Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce, local churches, and foundations may offer scholarships based on a variety of factors and needs. People enjoy helping others, especially when a young man or lady approaches them and is resourceful, mature, and has a positive outlook on life.

Local scholarships are usually funded by community organizations and businesses that want to see their local students thrive. Besides, there’s often less competition for these scholarships. But success in college is more than simply grappling with finances.

What school would you like to attend?

Choose carefully. Some students know exactly what they want, and they apply to colleges that meet their criteria. Others have yet to decide on a career path or what they really want from a college.

Nonetheless, you probably have a general idea of the school you might want to attend. Do you prefer a large school, or does a smaller campus better suit your personality? Do you gravitate to an urban setting in a big city environment? Or do you prefer recreational opportunities, the outdoors, and a more rural setting?

Get out and visit the schools that interest you. Talk with current students, see the campus and facilities, chat with professors in the major you are considering, and visit the dorms. You’ll quickly find out whether the school is a fit.

Your Essay, Your Story

Most selective college applications will require an essay—a narrative within the context of the question asked on the application.

You are unique, and the best way to tell your story is to write a thoughtful essay about something impactful or meaningful to you.

Admissions officers read countless essays. They know this can be a difficult project, and it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. Be you, be genuine, and don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. Don’t try to write about something you really aren’t interested in but believe will impress the admissions officer.

Admissions officers are simply looking for motivated students who will add that special something to their freshman class, according to The Princeton Review. Start early and write several drafts. Have someone edit your application. Another set of eyes is always a plus.

And don’t simply retell the story. Anyone can give a play-by-play of an event—we went overseas, we helped build a home, we played games with the local kids, etc. Take some time to reflect on your experiences. Share what you gained, how it impacted you, and how it shaped you.

Preparing for college involves more than just academic strength; it’s about developing the skills and mindset that will help you thrive in your new environment. Embrace the opportunities and challenges that will surely come your way. Creating a plan and taking steps to move forward will allow you to write the next chapter of your life with confidence.

If you have questions about your funding goals, please let us know. We want to help you succeed! If you are a parent and you are looking for ways to help afford the education your child desires read more about your options here.

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About the Author

Jack Brkich III, is the president and founder of JMB Financial Managers. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER TM, Jack is a trusted advisor and resource for business owners, individuals, and families. His advice about wealth creation and preservation techniques have appeared in publications including The Los Angeles Times, NASDAQ, Investopedia, and The Wall Street Journal. To learn more visit https://www.jmbfinmgrs.com/.

Connect with Jack on LinkedIn or follow him on Twitter.