5 Quick Tips on How to Earn Extra Cash to Fund College Expenses
Managing college expenses requires planning and extra income.
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Higher education comes with costs that can be difficult for families to manage, but planning how to earn extra cash will benefit upcoming college students this school year.
Now pursuing a degree doesn't mean paying for a one-time cost since other expenses like textbooks, food, and accommodation for dorms, can also be counted. Financial barriers can make this harder to afford, and without enough funding, students could struggle in debt, drop out of class, or forego their college education at last.
College does not stop at tuition alone, so here are 5 quick tips on how you can earn extra cash to fund your college expenses.
How to Earn Extra Cash for College Expenses
Not everyone can access work opportunities right away or have college savings ready at their disposal. At the same time, most part-time college work can even take away a student's full focus on their studies. Prior to your first freshman day, here's how you can earn extra cash to fund college expenses.
1. Apply to FAFSA
According to US News, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) so you can secure federal, institutional, or state aid. The due date is always June 30 of the academic year, although some states have earlier deadlines.
If you missed out, don't worry, late applicants can still qualify for these benefits if funding is available.
2. Fill Out As Many Scholarship Forms
There are a lot of scholarships in the states, most come with deadlines, but some can still allow late applicants. These scholarship types vary and may benefit those with parents in specific industries or communities and if they belong to a particular group of people entitled to state aid.
3. Summer Job
One of the quickest ways on how you can earn extra cash to fund your college expenses is through a summer job. Unlike others, it guarantees that you will get paid at the end of your job, US News shared that students can now find part-time and full-time roles, especially in retail and food service.
Some companies can even offer tuition assistance programs so you can continue working while they cover all educational costs.
4. Freelance Hustle
The job market can be unstable, but you can avoid the excruciating requirements associated with most jobs by looking for side hustles. You can lend your dog walking services, babysit a neighbor's child, do freelance writing for senior college students, or even sell some of your artwork and any handmade items. Start-up costs are usually non-existent, making it college freshman-friendly.
5. Budgeting
So maybe you have some savings sitting in your bank, CNBC stated that you can start budgeting them before the academic year starts. This way, you can track income and expenses to cover essential college costs. It's a great practice as well to gain more control of your finances once you start your first job out of college.
