Tips to Reduce College Costs – Graduating from a college with an engineering major seems quite daunting financially but what is an engineering degree worth? According to the BLS data, engineers have the highest average starting salary ($91,010 annually) and the engineering field continues to expand its employment opportunities.
Statistics prove that engineering jobs remain in demand. Thanks to engineering graduates nations develop towards knowledge-based economies, which is conducive to advances in business growth, medical care, and many other beneficial areas.
Despite all the prospects, the financial issue of earning an engineering degree remains open. This guide will help engineering students find accessible ways to fund their education including one of the most common funding ways – scholarships.
7 Essential Tips to Pay Less for College
Engineering students can reduce college costs in many ways. Let’s consider some of the most crucial ways to lower costs spent on college:
1. Use Dual Enrolment Courses
Get a step ahead. Students engaged in dual enrolment programs can earn college credits for free or at a reduced cost.
2. Enter In-State College
Not to mention the obvious difference between public and private institutions, consider entering an in-state college. If there is one that suits your needs, you can ease the financial burden as much as twice.
3. Transfer From Community College
Choosing a community college as a starting point is much cheaper since they charge on average $3,730 for tuition and fees. You may complete certain courses at a community college and then transfer to a four-year college.
4. Live Off-Campus After Your First Year
You will most likely end up paying far less for your housing and meals by living off-campus. If possible, consider the option of living with parents and commuting. Take into account all pros and cons and make the most convenient decision.
5. Get Your Textbooks for the Lowest Price Possible
Buying textbooks can cost a hefty sum of money that is over $1000 per semester. There are many options to pay less on textbooks by:
- sharing textbooks with friends;
- buying used copies;
- asking professors what books and how frequently you will need;
- buying the digital or loose-leaf versions;
- trying other options to cut textbook costs.
6. Start Saving Money & Maintain Budget
If you already know that you aim at a prestigious college, or a graduate degree, start saving money in advance. In addition, maintaining your budget will help avoid non-obligatory purchases and save some sum of money.
7. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Being a student opens for you an endless list of student discounts. You can reduce your day-to-day costs by buying products, services, digital subscriptions, or tickets to events with a considerable discount.