Options for Keeping Higher Education Costs Under Control

Rapidly rising costs for higher education have received a lot of media attention. But that media attention doesn't do much to help actual people afford college. There are several ways to keep college costs under control and minimize the money you'll have to borrow for college. At StraighterLine, we offer a range of online courses transferable to over 1,800 colleges and universities, and we offer them at affordable prices.

Get Ahead While You're Still in High School

If you're a motivated high school student, you can earn college credits before you graduate by taking and passing Advanced Placement, or AP classes. When you pass an AP exam you earn credits that transfer to many colleges and universities. While your AP exam may or may not be free of charge, it is considerably less expensive than taking the comparable course at a college.

Some Life Experiences Give You Skills Useful for CLEP Tests

The College Level Examination Program, or CLEP, allows you to pass a test called a CLEP exam and earn credit for knowledge you already have. For example, if you grew up in a bilingual home, you may be able to pass a CLEP exam in, say, Spanish, and earn college credits without having to take a college course. CLEP credits cost much less than comparable college courses.

Online Classes Keep You From Having to Quit Your Job

Quitting your job and going to college full-time is not a real option for a lot of people. Taking classes online is increasingly popular because these courses are easier to work into a full-time work schedule. You can study at night or on weekends as long as you turn in assignments and exams on time, so you can keep your steady paycheck while you attend school.

You Have Many Options for Saving Money on College Costs

Don't give up on college due to "sticker shock." Yes, college is expensive, but there are many things you can do to keep costs under control. AP and CLEP credits are cost-effective, and online courses let you keep working while attending school. At StraighterLine we know how to help you earn your degree without huge college expenses.