10 Ways to Afford the College You Love

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Here are 10 smart ways students can make their dream college more affordable.

By SAGE Scholars — October 1, 2025

Tags: campus-life, college-student, financial-aid, internships, sage-scholars-program, scholarships, study-abroad

You've found a college that excites you. The campus feels right, the programs match your goals, and you can picture yourself there. But then you look at the price tag-and your heart sinks.

Here's the truth: the sticker price isn't the full story. Many students pay far less than the listed cost thanks to scholarships, financial aid, and smart planning. Below are ten ways to help make the college you love more affordable, so cost doesn't have to be the deciding factor.

1. Start Saving Early (It's Not Too Late)

The earlier you or your family can start setting money aside, the better. Even small amounts saved regularly can make a real difference over time.

If your family uses a 529 savings plan, that money can grow tax-free and be used for college expenses. And if you're a student working part-time, setting aside even a little from each paycheck shows great initiative-and adds up faster than you'd think.

2. Don't Judge a College by Its Sticker Price

It's easy to feel discouraged when you see a college's full price, but remember: very few students actually pay that amount.

Colleges often offer significant financial aid packages, especially private institutions. What matters most is the net price, the cost after scholarships and grants are applied. You can use each school's net price calculator to estimate what you might actually pay. You might be surprised by how affordable your dream school turns out to be.

3. Stand Out Through Talents and Activities

Being recruited as a college athlete is one way to earn scholarships, but it's not the only way. Many colleges offer awards for leadership, community service, artistic talent, or other specialized skills.

This can include music, theater, student government, volunteer work, or even esports. If you have a passion or talent, highlight it in your applications and talk with admissions or financial aid offices about related opportunities.

4. Challenge Yourself Academically

Taking AP, IB, or dual-enrollment courses in high school can help you save money later. These classes can earn you college credit before you even step on campus, which may allow you to graduate early, reduce your course load, or free up time for internships and study abroad.

Colleges value students who push themselves academically. It can help with both admission and scholarships.

5. Complete Your SAGE Scholars Student Profile

If your family is part of the SAGE Scholars Tuition Rewards program, filling out your Student Profile is an easy but powerful way to get noticed.

An up-to-date profile helps member colleges learn more about who you are and what you're looking for. It can also open the door to scholarship opportunities, personalized outreach, and even FastTrak direct admissions at participating schools.

6. Use Net Price Calculators to Compare Schools

Every college has a net price calculator on its website. These tools estimate what families typically pay after scholarships and grants.

Use them early in your search-not just after you've been accepted. This helps you compare schools side-by-side, build a realistic college list, and avoid falling in love with a school that may be out of reach financially.

7. Connect with Colleges (and Ask Questions)

Don't be shy about reaching out to colleges. Contact financial aid offices and admissions counselors to ask about scholarship opportunities, grants, or special programs.

You can also attend virtual info sessions, financial aid webinars, or campus visits to learn more. Asking questions not only gives you good information but also shows genuine interest, which some colleges consider in admissions and aid decisions.

8. File the FAFSA as Soon as It Opens

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is one of the most important steps you can take. Many types of aid, federal grants, state aid, institutional scholarships, and work-study, are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Filing early ensures you don't miss out. The FAFSA is free, and it's required by most colleges to consider you for financial aid. Even if you think you won't qualify, it's almost always worth submitting.

9. Make the Most of Your Tuition Rewards Points

If your family participates in SAGE Scholars, don't forget to submit your Tuition Rewards Points to your chosen colleges before their deadlines.

Each point is worth $1 in guaranteed minimum scholarships at participating schools, up to 25% of undergraduate tuition, spread evenly over four years. Submitting your points on time ensures they're included in your financial aid offer.

10. Combine Multiple Strategies

The most successful students use several of these strategies together. For example:

Save early and take dual-enrollment courses
File the FAFSA promptly
Highlight your talents and apply for scholarships
Submit Tuition Rewards Points on time

Every step helps reduce the cost. With some planning and persistence, your dream school may be closer and more affordable than you think.

Final Thoughts

Affording college takes effort, but it's absolutely possible. By understanding how financial aid works, exploring scholarships, and using the tools available through FAFSA and SAGE Scholars, you can take control of the process.

Don't let the sticker price scare you off. With the right strategies, the college you love can become the college you can afford.

SAGE Scholars

At SAGE Scholars, we deeply believe in the value and quality of private higher education. Our mission is to provide access to affordable college opportunities while bringing together families, colleges & universities, and benefit providers to create college funding solutions. Since 1995, SAGE Scholars has bridged the gap between students who want a quality private college education and colleges that will work closely with member families to ensure affordability - all at no cost to the families.

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