SMART WAYS TO MAKE COLLEGE AFFORDABLE WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

Cheryl Coughlin
Oct 2
3 min read

Let’s be honest—college is ridiculously expensive. Between tuition, books, housing, transportation, and for us coffee lovers, that daily caffeine fix, the costs can rise well above just the tuition. But here's the good news that many are not aware of: you don’t need to be rich (or take on massive debt) to afford college.

Whether you're a student, a parent, or just trying to figure out your next step, this guide will walk you through real, practical ways to make college work financially. No gimmicks—just honest tips, tools, and some encouragement from others who've been in your shoes.

💰 Know What College Really Costs

First thing’s first: don’t let the sticker price scare you off.

The price colleges post on their websites is often way higher than what students actually pay. After financial aid, scholarships, and grants are applied, your real cost (called the net price) could be significantly lower.

🔍 Quick Tip: Use the college’s net price calculator (every school has one on their website) to get a more accurate estimate based on your situation.

📝 Fill Out the FAFSA (Yes, Even If You Think You Won’t Qualify)

Every year, millions of dollars in financial aid go unused because students don’t fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Don’t leave free money on the table.

Even if your family makes a decent income, you might still qualify for aid, federal loans, or work-study programs.

📅 FAFSA opens October 1st every year—apply early!

🎯 Apply for All the Scholarships

This is where a student's hard work and effort can pay off. Scholarships = free money you don’t have to pay back. And guess what? There are scholarships for literally everything—academic achievement, athletic skills, volunteering, hobbies, your major, your hometown... even for being left-handed. (Seriously.)

💡 Pro Tips:

Check with your school counselor, local organizations, or your workplace.
Use sites like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Going Merry.
For students from Maine, check out the FAME website - Free service
Keep a spreadsheet and set a goal to apply to at least one per week.

🏆 Small ones add up! $500 here, $1,000 there—it counts.

🏫 Be Smart About Where You Go

You don’t have to go to a big-name, big-price school to get a great education. Check out these options:

Start at a community college and transfer later. It saves thousands.
Go to an in-state public university—they’re usually way cheaper.
Look for schools with strong financial aid. Some elite private colleges offer better aid than public ones.

📌 College is what you make of it—not what you pay for it.

👩‍💼 Work (But Don’t Overdo It)

Working during college can be a game-changer while keeping academics the priority.

Look for on-campus jobs or work-study programs.
Explore paid internships, tutoring, or independent side hustle with flexible hours.
Use summers to work and save up for the school year.

⚖️ Just try to keep it under 20 hours a week during semesters so you can still focus on classes.

🧾 Budget Like a Boss

Let’s talk about real life: college gets expensive when you least expect it. Textbooks, takeout, late-night Target runs, laundry, cafes... it adds up fast.

Here’s how to stay on top of it:

Live at home if that’s an option (seriously, it saves a fortune).
Split housing or meal costs with roommates.
Buy used textbooks, rent them, or check your library before you spend.
Take advantage of student discounts—on everything from Spotify to software.

📱 Try budgeting apps like Mint, YNAB, or even just a Google Sheet. Tracking your spending is a game-changer. Start NOW!

🔁 Consider Alternative Paths

Not everyone’s journey looks the same—and that’s totally okay.

Online degrees can be more affordable and flexible; not the same experience.
Apprenticeships & trade schools lead to high-paying jobs without the debt.
Military service offers great education benefits through the GI Bill.

🎯 Don’t feel pressured to follow one path—do what fits you and your goals.

💬 Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but remember: you’re not alone. So many students are in the same boat, figuring it out one step at a time.

Take it from many who've been there—it’s 100% possible to go to college without ruining your finances. Be smart, ask questions, use your resources, and keep showing up. You don’t need to have it all figured out right now. Let BestFit College Advisors help guide your though this process