(NC) A university or college degree is often an expectation in today’s job market. But the costs of getting a degree can be a financial burden or just plain out of reach for many of us.
Here are a few ways to reduce the cost of going to college:
Apply for awards, scholarships, grants and bursaries.
Aside from federal and provincial grants based on financial need or scholarships based on academic merit, you can also find many local, regional or school-specific awards. These may have fewer applicants, which could increase your odds. Moreover, these smaller awards can certainly add up, so don’t hesitate to apply to lower-value ones.
Explore housing options.
After tuition, on-campus housing can be the biggest expense for higher education. Research your options and decide what you value most – do you crave a quick roll out of bed to class, or will you be just fine with a commute? With online classes a continuing trend, you may find more affordable off-campus living easier to like than ever.
Have the school pay your way.
You might not have thought it was possible, but programs do exist where the cost of your schooling and even room and board are covered. Enrolling with the Canadian Coast Guard’s Officer Training Program means you can earn a bachelor’s degree and a diploma, get meals and housing provided, and receive a monthly allowance. Plus, you’ll have a public service job in the Coast Guard waiting for you upon graduation in return for a four-year commitment to working at sea.
The Marine Communications and Traffic Services training program is taught in English and French. The first phase is a 23-week program spent living at the college while being provided accommodations and meals. Trainees receive extensive training, which includes classroom theory and practical use of radio operations and vessel traffic services communications simulators.
Find more information on the program at ccg-gcc.gc.ca/college (Source: News Canada)
