How to Pay for College

Paying for and obtaining a college education is an investment in the future. Students and families must weigh many factors before deciding which college or university offers the best academic program and learning environment at a cost they can afford. As with any large investment, the best outcome is achieved through self-awareness, in-depth research, and a thorough understanding of all the options.

Consider the following:

• A Variety of Financial Aid is Available
  College financial aid programs help families meet the cost of education that exist beyond their demonstrated ability to pay. Institutional need-based and merit-based student aid combined with state and federal scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs comprise a financial assistance package and help defray the cost of attending college.
• Apply to colleges that best fit personal and academic needs, regardless of price
  The ability to pay for a college education is likely to be an important factor in selecting a college or university. The price of a particular institution, however, should not prevent a student from applying to the schools of his or her choice. A student should apply to colleges that best suit his or her academic, social, and personal needs, regardless of the price, because financial aid can make it affordable.
• The South Carolina Advantage
  The State of South Carolina provides scholarships (Palmetto Fellows, LIFE, HOPE, and Tuition Assistance) and grants (Higher Education Tuition Grants) exclusively to state residents to encourage the best and brightest to stay in South Carolina and study at one of the state’s outstanding public or private institutions of higher learning.
• Affordable, High-Quality Education
  A common myth is that the cost of a private college or university is out of reach of most students and their families. The truth is that South Carolina’s independent colleges and universities make very attractive financial aid and grant offers to all types of students regardless of financial means. South Carolina’s independents seek well-rounded student bodies that include students from all regions, all ethnic backgrounds, and all income levels. Each college or university will try to make every effort to compile a suitable financial aid package for the student and family so that the price of a college education does not become an overriding factor in choosing an institution. Because they are smaller and private, independent colleges and universities have more flexibility with admission decisions and are able to work individually with parents and students to create an affordable education.

To learn more about Federal and State Scholarships and Grants, see the attachment below.

Attachments:

Federal and State Scholarships and Grants