5 Ways to Reduce the High Cost of College - Spoiler Alert it's NOT Sports

The cost of college has increased as much as 40% in the past five years. ​Essential College Coach’s students understand that even if you dream of playing a sport in college, achieving top grades and building a strong resume throughout high school gives you the best chance to not only be accepted, but also pay the least for your college education. Just as you pursue athletic prowess from a young age, you must start early to increase your chance to receive college scholarships. While many chase the elusive athletic scholarship, our kids know how tough it is for an 18 year old highschool senior to compete athletically with a 27 year old graduate student. We teach our students how to pursue every avenue to reduce the rising cost of college.

1. The Richest Pots of Scholarship Money are Based on Academic Achievement:

Many colleges and universities offer merit-based scholarships to students who maintain a high GPA throughout highschool and achieve high standardized test scores, substantially reducing the cost of their college education. Such awards can include reduced tuition rates, grants, and other financial benefits like money for housing and books, easing the high cost of a four year degree. Remember, colleges are looking for academic achievers and use these generous, institutional scholarships to attract students they believe will achieve throughout college, graduate with distinction and ultimately become successful and involved alumni.​

2. Building a Competitive Resume for Additional Opportunities:

A well-rounded resume is one that highlights the following: 

1. Your academic curiosity outside the classroom - leadership roles you have achieved in clubs or activities to which you have committed a good part of your high school years.

2.  Dedicated and consistent community service connected to your interests and passions.

3.  Extracurricular activities and summers that demonstrate how you have pushed the boundaries to be more than an “ordinary” high school student. 

Colleges are searching for students who contribute positively to their communities and demonstrate a commitment to personal growth. Building such a resume will not only make you a competitive candidate for acceptance, but also make you a strong contender for scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

3. Early College Programs:

Another benefit of maintaining a high GPA, is having the opportunity to enroll in college courses while you are still a high school student. You will earn college credits at a reduced cost or even for free. This route not only prepares you for college academically, but also saves money on tuition, as you enter your school with credits already completed.

4. Achieving Strong AP Test Scores:

Many colleges and universities offer college credit for AP exam scores of 4 or 5. The credits earned with your high AP exams will allow you to skip introductory-level courses and save you time and money. You could potentially graduate a semester or even an entire year early, reducing your overall tuition cost, or you may be able to complete a double major or additional minors without extending your college timeline.

5. Micro-Scholarships for Specific Achievements

Recently, platforms such as RaiseMe allow students to earn micro-scholarships for certain accomplishments, such as earning good grades in specific subjects or participating in and achieving in some extracurricular activities. You can earn these micro-scholarships throughout high school and apply the funds directly to your college expenses.