by Juan Leer

Created on: February 13, 2007   Last Updated: July 09, 2009

College is a very expensive investment. With tuition rising every year, it has become harder and harder for someone to go to college, get a degree, and get out without a lot (or any) debt. Some people think it might not be able to done, especially if you have to pay for college all by yourself without the help of any benefactors. The fact is that it will be very difficult to get the degree without the debt, but it can be done. Here are some things that can help you achieve this lofty goal.

*Community College*

It's not as glamorous as going to a 4-year University right out of high school, but the costs will be significantly reduced for a couple of years, which will go a long way towards getting the degree without the debt. Plus, depending on where you go afterwards, most of the credits will probably transfer to the 4-year college. There seems to be a bit of a stigma attached to community college, but it is actually a very reasonable option to make college more affordable.

*Financial Aid*

This is essential if you are going to get the degree without the debt. Get your FAFSA in as soon as possible to give you the best shot at financial aid. Grants, work study, etc. Every little bit helps, because that's just a little bit more that you don't have to pay. In particular, if you have a chance to get any grants, do absolutely everything you can to help secure them, because that is hugely beneficial when paying for college.

*Scholarships*

A lot of these are decided when you're in high school, but there are still things you can fill out after you get to college. There are lots of general scholarships, as well as many that might be program-specific, which would give you a better chance at landing them. So look around, because like any financial aid, any assistance you receive here is just a little more you don't have to pay. Once again, scholarships are essential if you are going to be able to get the degree without the debt.

*Get a job*

This could be tough if you have a lot of credits, but it's probably necessary if you want to graduate without the debt. Get a summer job, get a job in the school year... you can't work too much so your grades suffer, but you need to bring in some income. Especially beneficial might be a job on campus. You might not make a ton of money, but a lot of times it will allow you time to help study or get some of your homework completed.

So graduating from college without the debt involves a lot of hard work, but with the proper planning and saving, it can be done. You will need to work very hard, but it is certainly possible.

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