There are approximately 4,000 degree-granting institutions of higher learning in the US. That’s an overwhelming number of options for teenagers with plans of attending college. Choosing between going to college near home or moving out of state may be their biggest dilemma.
If you’re thinking about going to college out of state, this article’s for you. Read on for insights to consider when looking at out-of-state colleges.
How Far Is Too Far?
Assess your level of maturity and independence. As a kid, did you cry the entire weekend of sleep-away camp? Or, were you the child who never called home?
If you relate more to the former, consider out-of-state colleges not too far from home. Going away to college means being away from familiar faces and places. You may need a dose of home every now and again.
Tuition Costs
On average, out-of-state tuition at a public college or university costs $10,000 more than in-state tuition. The difference in costs takes into account the taxpayer funding of these schools. Parents of out-of-state students don’t contribute towards that expense.
Private colleges and universities don’t benefit from taxpayer dollars. For this reason, the same tuition applies to in-state and out-of-state students. Consider this fact when comparing tuition expenses among colleges and universities.
Moving Estimates
Whether you’re a minimalist or expect to live lavishly, the expended time, money, and effort of moving gets costly. Not limiting the amount of personal belongings you take makes matters worse. Especially if you consider everything you own essential.
Paying for a professional mover could be your best option. If so, compare estimates and read the reviews of companies that are licensed and insured. Ask the right questions to get more information when picking a moving company.
Traveling Expenses
From time to time students may have to temporarily vacate campus grounds. This could occur during holidays or semester breaks. Traveling costs could prove prohibitive for students without local family and friends.
Here’s a tip: find out-of-state colleges with an international studies program. Oftentimes those schools have special accommodations. It’s possible you can make arrangements to stay on-campus when many students travel back home.
Financial Aid Options
All these expenses add up. Seek financial aid to ease the financial burden of out-of-state tuition and expenses. Some students underestimate the amount of aid they’re qualified to receive.
Learn about available merit and need-based scholarships and grants before applying for student loans. Eligibility for assistance might be as simple as submitting a well-written essay. In 2018, $2.6 billion in free college money went unclaimed by high school graduates attending college.
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Here’s another tip: if ever you doubt your eligibility, apply anyway.
Your Guide to Out-of-State Colleges
Don’t get discouraged by tuition and expenses of out-of-state colleges and universities. We’ve given you some advice and tips to make it happen. Find the resources you need to attend the college of your dreams.
Explore our collection of blogs for more helpful insights and suggestions.