So do you know how much college will cost you?
Take a deep breath, the average cost for a 4 year private institution can range from $23,000 to $45,000 or more. Much of the price tag of higher education depends on the type of school you plan to attend, the location, the school itself, the degree you want to pursue and how much free money you are able to get your hands on.
Along with the tuition bill let's not forget to add room and board, meal plans, books, supplies, relocation costs, and miscellaneous living expenses
Still there? Need a paper bag? Keep breathing!
So how do you find out the cost of attendance?
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and do some homework. Researching how much a school will cost will pay off big in the end and there are a lot of resources at your disposal to help you make the best educated choice.
Did you know that Federal Law requires schools to make available to students their official total cost of attendance? It's true. Give any potential college a call and request this information. Some may have it on their website or you'll be sent paperwork explaining the breakdown of their cost of attendance. Don't forget to request this information if it is not provided to you on any campus visit.
Harness the power of the internet. There are several helpful and most importantly free resources online that can break down the price tag for your education. Try typing in "College Calculators" and you'll be given a list to choose from. Here are just a few to get you started:
College Cost Calculator
Cost of College Calculator
College Savings Calculator
If you still can't accurately determine the cost of attendance, you can make a pretty good "guesstimate" by adding tuition, fees, room, board, and $3,500 bucks or so.
After you have enough information you can do a little math. Subtract the total of any free money you may receive (grants and scholarships) from the cost of attendance. If you need additional help, ask the financial aid office for help calculating your out-of-pocket costs.
Now you should have a good idea of the price tag of your education. Remember it's important to do your research. Going to college may be your first big investment so be sure to spend the time window shopping before you make the big purchase.
More Books to Help You:
Posted
Jun 12 2008, 10:17 AM
by
Librarian