Another college tip for parents and the college bound

[lgalletta]

When I entered a 4 year state university, the school encouraged only 4 classes a semester. Because I paid for college myself, I counted every penny twice. I figured out that by going along with the schools reccomendations, I would not graduate in 4 years, but rather 4 1/2. When questioned, the school said it made these reccomendations to ensure student success. In my mind, this was unacceptable because I could not afford the expenses for the extra semester. I took more than the reccomended classes every semester, and even graduated with two degress in four years. Every one of my college roomates, and most of my friends did not graduate with me. They all stayed for the extra semester, while I started my "real job". Over the years, I have learned that this practice is very common in schools around the country. Students should be aware of what courses will be required to graduate on time (or even early).

[crosses]

Another way to save is go to a local community college for two years and then transfer to the college of your choice. Community college courses are much less than regular university courses and the first 2 years are primarily basic requirement courses that everyone has to take. Most of the time the kids can continue to live with your so you don't have to pay for rent and other expenses for living away from home.

[Lori63]

I posted under another thread that we went to a financial aid seminar the other night, and this was another thing he mentioned. Schools recommend 12 hours per semester, but if you can handle 15 for the same price it is certainly a better deal.
I also suggest that you don't wait until your child's senior year to think about all this. My son is a junior, and I feel so much better-more in control-of how we're going to be able to pay for everything. There is a ton of grant/scholarship money out there.