Tips to raise last-minute cash for college
Looking to raise some last-minute cash for college? Why take more loans or pay more out of pocket than you absolutely have to? Here are some tips on how to get quick cash for college, even if you’ve procrastinated thus far.
Scholarships with late deadlines
First, apply to scholarships with late deadlines. They do exist—check out this link from US News, and try Googling around. No scholarship is too small. Remember that the amount of time you take to apply for a scholarship is negligible compared to the gains that the scholarship offers. Don’t think “I don’t have a shot at winning, so many people are going to apply”—that mentality is doomed to fail. It’s not a waste of time by any stretch. So find last-minute scholarships and apply for them!
Start a GoFundMe and use social media to promote it
You’d be surprised at the things people start GoFundMe crowdfunding campaigns for. Among those, paying for college is a serious pursuit, and people will be sure to consider contributing to help you finance your education. Utilize your social networks on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram—you never know unless you ask. Often people are afraid to ask for help. Don’t be. One day, you may find yourself in a position to help others, and of course, you’ll pay it forward.
Learn how to budget and lower your cost of living
Ramen, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and vitamin pills go a long way—within reason, of course. Make sure to eat your fruits and veggies every day as well. Quit going to movies, quit going out to eat, quit drinking beverages other than water. If you develop frugal habits now, they’ll stick with you throughout your life.
Get a job
Yes, it’s difficult to juggle working with school—but it’s not impossible. Get a job that allows you to work online from home, or figure out a skill you have and start advertising freelance services. Again, you’d be surprised what you find if you look for it! Most people simply don’t take the initiative, so be ahead of the curve and seek out employment that works for you! Get a job that allows you to study during work—and yes, these jobs exist.
See if your college or university has a payment plan
These are school-specific plans that allow you to pay your tuition balance in small payments over the course of 6-10 months out of the year. Making several small payments is easier for many people than paying one lump sum. Although you must sign up for these payment programs with the college you’re attending, the programs are often overseen by third-party vendors, as most tuition-payment programs are.
Fill out the FAFSA
This should be obvious, but still—don’t forget to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Do so early. The FAFSA helps determine what grants and loans you’re elibigible for.
Ask your school’s financial aid office for a better package
Financial aid packages are not set in stone, and the people in the financial aid office are there to help you. Don’t underestimate the efficacy of negotiation. Most families who succeed in getting the financial aid office to offer more grant money have competing offers from other schools. Explain your situation to them, and remember: it never hurts to ask.
Take basics at a community college and then transfer
There’s no shame in getting the basics out of the way at a community college and then transferring to another institution to complete work on your major. Because community college courses are often much cheaper, this strategy can save students and parents thousands of dollars.
Maximize your tax return
Don’t forget to claim any tax credits and deductions you’re eligible for—and make sure that your parents do the same. Work with a tax professional or use a free program like H&R Block or TurboTax. Remember to file early!
Apply for scholarships while you’re in college
Not all scholarships are for incoming freshman. Many scholarships offer support for continuing education. Don’t procrastinate next time! Apply for scholarships each year you’re in school. Remember: if you don’t apply, you have no chance!
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