Life other than higher education can be very expensive.You can pay as much as $30,000 a year for college.Although the prospect of financing your education might seem daunting, you can make it affordable with a little planning, some financial assistance, and thrifty living.
Step 1: Start a savings account.
It is possible that your parents started a savings account for your education when you were young.You should use the money to pay for school.If you don't already have a savings account, start one and put a small amount into it each month.10% of your income can be put into savings if you have a job.If the student attends an eligible institution, the college savings plans are popular.You can use your plan to attend certain schools, even if they aren't eligible.
Step 2: It is possible to earn money in high school.
If you want to put more money in your savings account, you should consider working a part-time job while in high school.Setting aside a fair amount of money can be accomplished by working a job in the evenings and on the weekends.It's a good idea to find something that looks interesting.It's possible to start your own business doing things like babysitting or dog-walking.You could work as a waiter, lifeguard or laborer.
Step 3: Consider your goals.
Determine what you want from the educational experience as you look at schools.You can attend a school that focuses on the arts of cooking, or a college with a program where you can take classes outside of your major.The best educational and financial investment is determined by the expenses of the various schools that you are interested in.It will only train you to work in the kitchen.A degree from a four-year institution may help you find a different career path.
Step 4: Look at financial aid options.
You should look into what kind of aid you will be eligible for once you have decided on a school.There are many different types of aid available to students.You can talk to a financial aid supervisor at the institution you are considering attending.Financial aid can include scholarships, grants, and loans.
Step 5: You need to complete the FAFSA.
The U.S. Department of Education has a variety of financial aid options for students.You need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid in order to qualify for this financial aid.This form is used to determine if you qualify for government assistance.The application should be completed in January.What types of federal grants and loans you qualify for will be determined by how you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Step 6: Grants and scholarships are available.
Grants and scholarships do not need to be repaid.Determine which scholarships and grants you can apply for.Many scholarships and grants are merit-based, so you will want to keep your grades up and be active in your community.Depending on your background, you may be eligible for federal grants that don't have to be repaid.At your prospective school, talk to your guidance counselor or financial aid adviser.
Step 7: You can check out food service related scholarships.
The state restaurant association is a good place to start your search for scholarships.The International Food Service Executives Association and the American Institute of Baking offer scholarships.You can get scholarships from these organizations to help pay for college.
Step 8: Take out a loan.
Many people take out student loans to pay for their education because of the high price.The loans can be federal or private.Flexible repayment plans, lower interest rates, and the possibility of loan forgiveness if you work a certain job make federal loans a better option.You should consult with a financial aid adviser.
Step 9: If you want to study, apply for work-study programs.
Students can work part-time in order to help pay for their education through the Federal Work-Study program.Many of the programs encourage students to work jobs that meet community needs or are related to their course of study.You may be able to work in a food service position as a student.
Step 10: Join the military.
Military service is an option to consider when looking at how to pay for school.The GI Bill can be used to pay for school for people who have been in the military.The military has programs that can prepare you for a career in the food service industry.If you want to join the U.S. Army, you will need to score at least an 85 on the Food Operators section of the ASVAB.What role you will serve in the U.S. Army is determined by your scores on this exam.
Step 11: You can find a roommate.
It is possible to save money in college by avoiding living alone.A roommate can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in rent.If you are looking at a school that does not have student housing, this is important.If you want to find a roommate, you can either put up an add on the website or in your local newspaper.You might consider living with your parents if you are in the same city.If you want to look at a place by yourself, be wary of postings on the internet.
Step 12: You can buy used books and supplies.
The cost of books and school supplies can be very high.A large part of your student expenses will be used uniforms and equipment.Buy used books from your university bookstore or get them online in order to save money.There are people who are looking to sell their used gear.You can see if any students are selling their stuff by contacting them from the previous year.
Step 13: Student discounts can be used.
Student discounts are offered by many businesses.These deals usually include marked down prices if you show your student ID.When you have the chance, take advantage of the offers.You can usually find these discounts at the beginning of the school year.Student discounts can be used for things like movies, concert tickets, and food.
Step 14: You can use public transportation or ride a bike.
If you live in an area with public transportation, you can get to school.This will save you money on gas.Public transit passes are included in some schools.You might consider biking to school if you own a bike.This is a cheap and healthy mode of transportation.When cycling in traffic, be careful if your city does not have good bike trails.
Step 15: There is a budget.
Budget wisely is the best way to make school more affordable.If you create a budget and stick to it, you will be able to avoid using your credit card, which can leave you in debt quickly.All of your expenses and income should be written down when you start school.Stick to the plan.Late fees and interest charges can be avoided if you pay your bills on time.