As tuition costs continueto increase at higher education institutions across the country, many students are considering transitioning to community college once they earn their high school diploma. Although these schools were once considered below par in postsecondary education, the quality provided by many community colleges has been on track with many four-year schools today. The focus on community colleges by the Obama Administration has resulted in additional funding and industry-focused training that increases employment opportunities once the degree is earned. We have eight reasons why community college might be the best choice for some high school graduates.
Affordability
Although tuition is getting more expensive, community colleges are still significantly more affordable than most four-year institutions. The average annual rate to attend a four-year university could run as high as $30,000 or more, while the annual tuition at a community college probably won’t cost much more than $5,000. In addition, many community college students continue to live at home while taking classes, saving money on room and board.
Based on our prior calculations comparing a community college with a private four-year university, you could first save $80,000 by attending community college for two years!
With more affordable prices overall, community college students often find they can foot the bill for their education without taking on significant debt before graduation. Considering that many university students graduate with debt in the six-figure range,