Whether you’re new to school or nearing graduation, learning how to make college more affordable can be a big help. With a few smart choices and helpful resources, you can stay on track both academically and financially.
What Are the Best Ways To Make College More Affordable?
The following strategies can help you pay for college or keep your expenses within reach.
1. Complete the FAFSA
A smart first step toward making college affordable is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form typically opens on October 1 each year, and gives you access to grants, work-study programs, scholarships, and low-interest federal student loans. It’s free to complete, and it helps determine how much financial aid you’re eligible for.
Each year, students across the country receive nearly $150 billion in aid through the FAFSA. Submitting it early matters, since some funds are first-come, first-served. Even if you think your family earns too much, you should still submit a FAFSA, especially because many schools require a FAFSA to consider you for their own scholarships or payment plans.
2. Apply for Scholarships
Scholarships are money for college that you don’t have to pay back, and there are thousands of them out there. They’re not just for top students or athletes, either. You can find scholarships based on your major, hobbies, background, community service, or even personal goals.
You can find available scholarships by searching free scholarship databases online and asking your counselor for recommendations. Apply to as many scholarships as you reasonably can. Even small scholarship awards add up and can easily cover books, fees, or part of your tuition.
3. Utilize Grants
Grants are another form of financial aid that you don’t have to repay. They’re usually awarded based on financial need, and they can make a big difference in your overall costs. The federal Pell Grant is one of the most common. It provides billions in aid each year to undergraduate students.
To qualify for most grants, you’ll need to complete the FAFSA. In addition to federal grants, check out state and college-based grants; many states offer their own programs, and some even make community college tuition-free for eligible students.
4. Attend a University That Offers Financial Aid
Choosing a school that actively supports students through financial aid can make college more affordable. Many colleges and universities offer their own scholarships, grants, and flexible payment options to help lower your costs. When researching schools, look for ones that are transparent about tuition and committed to helping students manage expenses.
For example, The University of Olivet is a small university in Michigan that provides financial aid to all of its undergraduate students, showing a strong commitment to making higher education accessible. You can find out what kind of aid a school provides by visiting its financial aid webpage or contacting the school’s admissions office.
5. Start at a Community College
Starting at a community college can be a smart way to make college more affordable. Tuition at public community colleges averages about $5,200 per year for in-state students, which is less than at most four-year schools. You’ll complete the same general education classes you’d take anywhere else, often in smaller classes and with more flexible schedules.
After two years at a community college, you can transfer to a four-year university to finish your degree. As long as you plan your courses carefully and confirm your credits will transfer to your university of choice, you’ll earn the same diploma at a much lower overall cost.
6. Attend In-State Universities
Attending a university in your home state can be one of the easiest ways to lower your tuition costs. For example, in-state tuition in Michigan is approximately $9,000 cheaper per year than what out-of-state students pay for public institutions. That difference adds up quickly over four years. Staying closer to home can also help you save on travel and housing, making an in-state university an affordable and practical choice for many students.
7. Take AP or Dual Enrollment Courses
Earning college credits while you’re still in high school can help you graduate faster and make college more affordable. Advanced Placement classes let you take college-level courses and, if you do well on the exams, earn credit at many colleges.
Dual enrollment courses work similarly. You take actual college classes, often at a local community college or online, and the credits count toward both high school and college requirements. By the time you start your freshman year, you could already have a semester or more of credits completed. That means fewer classes (and fewer tuition bills) later. Just make sure to check how each college you’re considering handles credit transfers.
8. Participate in Work-Study Programs
Working part-time while in college can help cover day-to-day expenses, and the Federal Work-Study program is designed to make that easier. These jobs are usually on campus or with approved off-campus employers and are scheduled around your classes.
The program subsidizes part of your pay, so it’s easier for employers to hire students. To be considered, indicate your interest when you complete the FAFSA. If you qualify, you’ll see it listed in your financial aid offer. Work-study jobs often go quickly, so it helps to apply early. Even if you don’t qualify for official work-study, a part-time campus job can still help offset your costs while building solid work experience.
9. Seek Employer Tuition Assistance
If you’re working while in college, check for tuition assistance programs through your employer. Many companies offer education benefits that cover part or all of tuition, often up to $5,250 per year tax-free.
Some programs require approval for specific courses or a minimum grade, and you might need to stay with the company for a certain time after finishing. Still, even partial tuition coverage can save thousands. It’s worth asking your HR department what options are available—you might be surprised at how many employers support continuing education.
10. Buy Used or Digital Textbooks
To keep college textbooks more affordable, look for used books, rentals, or digital versions. They often cost 30–50% less than new copies.
Check if your library has reserve copies or if your professor is OK with you using an older edition. Open Educational Resources are also becoming more common. These are free or low-cost online textbooks that can save you even more.
11. Limit Meal Plan Upgrades
If your school requires a meal plan, choose one that fits your real eating habits. Larger or “unlimited” plans can be convenient, but they often cost more than you’ll actually use.
A smaller plan can work well if it still covers your regular meals and you supplement with simple groceries or home-cooked favorites. Just be mindful of how you use your dining dollars — those daily coffees and grab-and-go snacks can add up fast. Try to save your meal plan funds for actual meals, and if you consistently have leftovers or unused swipes, consider switching to a lower tier next semester.
The key is to avoid paying for unused dining dollars — not to skip meals.
12. Apply for Tuition Discounts
Some schools offer tuition reductions you might not know about. Discounts can apply if you have a parent who works in education or if you serve in the military. You might also qualify if you have a sibling enrolled at the same college or are part of certain exchange or legacy programs.
A few states also provide waivers for students who meet academic or community service requirements. These programs aren’t always advertised, so it’s worth asking your financial aid office directly if there are any you qualify for.
13. Use Public Transportation or Carpool
Bringing a car to campus can be expensive — between gas, parking, insurance, and maintenance, costs add up fast. If your college is in a city or town with reliable public transportation, consider using a transit pass instead of driving every day.
For students who live close to campus, biking or walking can save money. And when driving is necessary, carpooling with friends for errands or commuting can help share the costs. These small choices can add up, saving you hundreds or even thousands each year.
14. Participate in Cooperative Education Programs
Co-op programs combine classroom learning with full-time, paid work in your field. They’re common in majors like engineering, business, and technology, and they can make a difference financially.
During your work terms, you earn a salary, which is sometimes enough to cover tuition or living expenses, and you often don’t pay full tuition while you’re working. At some universities, co-op students earn over $11,000 per semester and graduate with less student debt than their peers. These programs may extend your degree timeline slightly, but the trade-off is gaining professional experience while reducing your costs. Even if your school doesn’t have a formal co-op, longer paid internships can offer similar benefits.
The University of Olivet Helps Make College Affordable
Learning how to make college more affordable starts with finding a university that aligns with your goals, values, and financial situation. The University of Olivet offers financial aid to 100% of undergraduate students, making a private college education in Michigan more attainable for everyone.
With small class sizes, dedicated professors, and a close-knit community, you’ll be supported every step of the way. The University of Olivet’s relationship-based learning approach means you’re never just a number—you’re part of a campus that sees you, challenges you, and helps you grow.
Apply today to an affordable university in Michigan that believes in your potential from day one. Discover what’s possible at The University of Olivet.