Financial stress and college affordability is a huge factor when choosing where to further your education. In fact, 70% of teens in 2023 (vs. 61% in 2022) have financial concerns about pursuing higher education.
This begs the question: Is making college affordable a real option for upcoming and current college students? We believe the answer is yes.
Community college provides an affordable alternative to traditional four-year institutions, allowing students to pursue higher education without the burden of excessive student loan debt. By offering lower tuition costs and flexible scheduling options, community colleges offer accessible and affordable college-level education for individuals seeking to acquire valuable skills to use right away, or if they want to transfer to a four-year university later on.
How is Community College Different from University?
Community college differs from a traditional university in several ways. First, community colleges have historically offered two-year associate degree programs, while universities provide four-year bachelor’s degree programs and often graduate programs as well. However, many community colleges have started offering four-year bachelor’s degree programs.
Typically, community colleges have a more localized focus, serving their immediate community and offering a range of vocational, technical, and transfer programs. Community colleges also often have smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention from instructors. While universities tend to offer a wider variety of academic programs and have more extensive campus facilities, community colleges provide a supportive environment for students to transition into higher education, offering resources like tutoring, academic advising, and career counseling.
And as we’ve mentioned, another key difference is the cost. Community college tuition is generally more affordable than university tuition, making it an attractive option for students looking to save money on their education. The average tuition cost for a two-year institution is $3,900 per year while the average cost for a four-year institution is $9,400 per year. Keep in mind that this doesn’t include room and board which is another huge cost for university students.
Is Getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Community College an Affordable and Viable Option?
Yes! Getting a bachelor’s degree in community college is a great way to get an affordable education. It’s also worth mentioning that a bachelor’s degree from an accredited community college is recognized by employers. Not all community colleges have four-year degree options but if they do, we suggest looking into it because it will almost always be less expensive than attending a university.
If you want the university experience, you can begin your education at a community college and then transfer to the university of your choice after a certain period (as discussed with your academic advisor). Community colleges offer two-year degrees, so getting your associate’s degree there can save you money before transferring to a university.
Doing well at the community college can also make you eligible for scholarships at universities, helping you save even more.
Other Ways to Make College More Affordable
Whether you decide to save money by going to community college or not, there are other ways to fill the gap in college affordability.
1. Dual Enrollment
If you’re currently in high school, it’s worth talking to your guidance counselor about enrolling in dual enrollment classes. Many schools collaborate with local community colleges, offering high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to earn FREE college credits. By taking both high school and college courses simultaneously, dual enrollment students can graduate with valuable college credits that can be applied to their higher education. In fact, some students may even graduate from high school with an associate’s degree, saving them a substantial amount of money on tuition and fees.
2. Scholarships and Grants
There are billions of scholarship dollars available for upcoming and current college students. You just have to search and apply for them. Using College Raptor’s Scholarship Search Tool, you can find scholarships you’re eligible for in just a few minutes. Be sure to fill out your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) information every year to keep your eligibility for funding and check with your school about scholarships you’re eligible for through them.
3. Transfer
Sometimes going straight to university isn’t the best financial option. Maybe you didn’t get the financial aid package you needed, your GPA wasn’t the best, or you just really can’t afford to move out of your home and pay to live somewhere else. That’s okay! You can take classes at a community or state college to save money and then use those credits to transfer once you’re ready.
Why is College Affordability Important?
Affordability is one of the top reasons people don’t pursue higher education. This is why making college more affordable and accessible to students from all backgrounds is a vital step in giving everyone the opportunity to pursue their dreams.
The availability of bachelor’s degree programs at community colleges and state schools makes college more affordable, providing upcoming students with easier access to affordable education. This expands opportunities and ensures that a college education is within reach for a broader range of individuals.
Obtaining your degree from a community or state college is equally valuable compared to a university degree. These institutions play a vital role in bridging the gap in college affordability, providing more individuals with the opportunity to pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.
Use College Raptor’s College Match Tool to find personalized college matches and our Scholarship Search Tool to find FREE money to use for your education!
| Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
5.50%-16.12%* Variable
3.99%-15.61%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
 |
5.54% - 15.70% Variable
3.99% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
|
|
5.00% - 17.99% Variable
3.49% - 17.99% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
 |
6.00% - 13.75% Variable
3.99% - 13.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
 |
5.66% - 14.72% Variable
3.69% - 14.56% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
 |
3.70% - 8.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
 |
5.62% - 16.85% Variable
3.69% - 16.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
 |
5.00% - 14.22% Variable
3.69% - 14.22% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |
