Community College Path

Community college tuition is usually thousands of dollars cheaper than tuition for private and public four–year universities. According to the College Board, the average published yearly tuition and fees for a public two-year college is just $3,440—that represents an outstanding opportunity to save some cash! This total cost is only a fraction of the cost of a private college, and still thousands of dollars less than a four-year program at a state college. Plus, even with the relatively low rates, nearly a third of community college students receive financial aid.

There is a community college within commuting distance of 90 percent of the U.S. population, so convenience is a big selling point. If you have family obligations or just don't feel financially ready to strike out on your own, a community college can enable you to continue your education without breaking the bank.

Four–year schools generally require you to be a full–time student. On the other hand, many community college students take classes part-time as they work or pursue other interests. Spending two years at a community college can give you time to work and save up for the four-year college of your choice. For added flexibility, a number of two–year colleges have multiple locations and offer courses online.

For some, community college is a chance to make up for a poor high school record. For others, it is an opportunity to get extra academic guidance and support. Community colleges often have small class sizes, and the priority of the faculty is teaching—not research. Plus, there are generally lots of support services, such as mentoring programs and organized study groups. This support can give students the credentials they need to get admitted to, and succeed at, a four-year school. You might even find that you qualify for a scholarship from the school you're transferring to or from an outside organization like Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for two-year colleges.