Junior College Costs

Thanks to the skyrocketing costs of private and public universities, many families are finding their college funds won't be enough. With low costs, small classes and easy-to-transfer credits, a community college may be the solution cash-crunched families need.

Community college, or junior college costs are normally lower than four year universities. Students can take classes at junior college and earn credits toward a two year or four year degree program at a lower cost. Junior colleges are local colleges that offer two year degrees, certifications and many classes will transfer later to a four year university. On average junior college costs are lower than four year universities.

The national average college tuition cost for public universities is $4,694 per year for in state residents. This figure includes both tuition rates and fees for a full time student. The average college tuition cost at private colleges and universities is around $20,000 per year in tuition and fees. Now compare this to the average yearly tuition for a junior college. The average cost of junior college tuition is only $2,076 per year. This is less than half than a traditional four year public university and much less than a private college.

Attending a junior college will also help offset the costs if a student decides to continue his or her education toward a bachelor's degree. Since junior college costs are lower students are not likely to be accumulating student loans which will help their financial state in long term future. Another factor to consider is that each year tuition rates rise. In fact college tuition costs increase at about twice the general inflation rate, about 8% per year. The future and long term costs are something that all college students, current and future, should consider when choosing a college.

Even though junior college tuition costs and four year college costs increase, many students benefit from financial aid programs. Government grants such as the Pell grant provide funding for many college students. In fact students who attend junior colleges may qualify for grants that would cover most or all of their junior college tuition costs.

Scholarship programs awarded by colleges, businesses and non profit organizations are also available to help students defray the cost of junior college tuition. With a combination of savings, financial aid, and scholarships many students today are able to afford junior college costs and further their education.