Flickr user David Wilson
Is your state college on your shortlist of schools to apply to? If not, before you finalize that shortlist, here are a few compelling reasons why you may want to reconsider and make sure state colleges features on your list.
In-State Tuition
Attending your state college can sometimes half what you’d pay for out-of-state-tuition. Lower tuition fees mean lower student loans. Thoughts of financial freedom and the lifestyle you will enjoy after you graduate are incentive enough to consider attending a state college. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that some schools/states offer in-state tuition to out-of-state students.
It’s Closer To Home
Staying closer to home has its perks, the most significant of which is that you can choose to stay at home if the commute allows it. Living at home allows you to have a great support system for those times when you need it. You never have to face your hard times alone. It’s also easier to stay in touch with your childhood friends when you study closer to home.
It’s Easier On Your Budget More Ways Than You May Think
Think about all of those additional items that you do not have to factor into your budget when you study at a state college that is close to home.
If you stay at home, you don’t have to worry about paying for accommodation and meals, and of course, you save on laundry too. Your only expense will be commuting to and from college, which is an insignificant amount when you consider the larger picture.
Even if you choose to stay on campus, you may have to pay for your accommodation and meals but you are still closer to home and going home during long weekends and breaks will not break your budget.
State Colleges Often Offer Additional Financial Aid
Some state colleges offer additional financial aid to encourage students to attend their state program. These extra funds can make a significant difference to your overall debt after graduation. The thought that you can get a high quality of education while still being able to keep your loans to a minimum can be a powerful draw. It’s definitely worth checking with the financial aid office of your state college to find out what types of additional financial assistance you may be able to get.
When making your shortlist of colleges, don’t discount state colleges completely without first exploring the many benefits you would enjoy, from lower student loans to additional financial assistance and of course, the thought of living closer to or even at home.
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