Revenue Sources
Even if you start early, it may be impossible to save enough for your child's college education. That doesn't mean, however, that college is out of the question. You have other cost-saving options available.
Student Strategies
While they may not be options you should rely on, there are some strategies students can follow to help reduce their expenses prior to entering college and once they're in college. For example, many college students, particularly those who commute to a local school, are able to work part-time and summer jobs to help subsidize their tuition or simply to earn spending money. Be aware, however, that money earned by the child prior to college may reduce his or her eligibility for financial aid. Some colleges offer cooperative education programs where students rotate study with periods of career-related work, allowing them to earn money and credits at the same time. However, it may take more than four years to complete a degree through a cooperative education program. Ask the college admissions office about the specifics of their program.
Depending on a child's scholastic ability, he or she may be able to earn college credits by taking college courses or advance placement exams while still in high school. First- and second-year college students can also take College Level Examination Program tests for course credit. These options can represent a significant savings over the cost of a full-semester course in the classroom. Check with your child's high school guidance counselor or with the college admissions office for eligibility requirements and program specifics.
Another cost-savings possibility is to attend a community college for the first year or two, then transfer to a four-year college to complete a degree. This can be a more affordable approach to receiving a degree from a prestigious institution that you may have been unable to afford for four years or which may have been more competitive to gain entrance as a freshman.
Financial Aid
Think of this in broad terms. You needn't be the sole source of funding for your child's higher education. For example, when your child receives a gift of money, put it into a college fund. When grandparents ask what to give for birthdays, suggest college fund contributions.
Home Equity
If you bought your home when your child was small, you're likely to have built up a significant amount of equity by the time college is in the picture. You can tap that resource for your child's education with a home-equity line of credit. Interest payments may be tax deductible.
Don't forget the traditional sources of financial aid:
- scholarships
- grants
- work-study programs
- government loans
Your child's scholastic record, course of study, athletic ability and choice of college are just a few of the variables that may affect the availability of these options.
If your family meets certain financial criteria, the federal government has a program of low-interest loans with extended payment terms. Relying too heavily on loans, however, is costly and can burden graduates with large debts just when they are working to establish their financial independence. Also, you should be aware that government financial aid programs are subject to change.
