Reducing College Costs Birmingham AL

College costs are going through the roof. The average debt of a student finishing college is almost $20,000. Follow these strategies to reduce the sticker cost of your education.

Ask about application fee waivers.

The cost of applying to college, taking standardized tests and having those scores sent to schools can add up. If you're strapped for cash, consider asking about application fee waivers. But keep in mind: Availability is limited, and you must meet some pretty stringent standards to qualify.

Apply for financial aid.

Even if you think you're not eligible, be sure to apply for financial aid by filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This form is the first step for applying for all kinds of aid, from federal aid (grants, loans and work-study), to state-based funding (grants and other programs), to college-based aid (special awards, grants and work-study programs).

Search for free money.

And since every little bit counts, you should also apply for scholarships. Use FastWeb's scholarship search to help you find awards and then apply! And to learn more about all your funding options, visit www.finaid.org.

Complete some of your credits at a lower-cost school.

You can save a lot by completing your general education requirements at a community college or less expensive school and then transferring to complete the degree. Talk to an admissions counselor to be sure your credits will transfer, and learn as much as you can about the financial aid policy. Some schools restrict financial aid for transfer students.