The issue of inflated tuition in America has continued to plague both higher education institutions and students alike. Institutions, which have seen a steady decrease in enrollments over the last decade have made it a practice to apply tuition increases year-over-year to keep their bottom lines intact. Meanwhile, students are faced with the task of deciding whether the ROI on their education is worth the high price tag and if they want to spend the next couple of decades paying off student loans.
According to the recently-published Chegg Global Student Survey 2025, students are actively seeking more cost-effective routes to avoid exorbitant price tags. In fact, 80% of U.S. students indicated they would prefer that their universities provide more online learning if it means cutting tuition costs. Another 80% would be open to taking less time to complete their degree, especially if it were cheaper.
As the financial burdens of pursuing higher education in the U.S. come to a tipping point, here are some five options to consider if you are looking for an advanced degree that doesn’t break the bank:
Explore Discounted Online or Hybrid Degree Programs
While not all universities offer tuition discounts for online or hybrid programs, many do. By incorporating virtual courses into your schedule, you can often eliminate commuting costs, find more affordable housing options, and sometimes access lower tuition rates. Though many students still crave face-to-face instruction, blending online and in-person classes can strike the right balance between flexibility and hands-on engagement—especially when you’re juggling a busy life or a tight budget.
Consider an Accelerated Degree Program
If you’re looking to save both time and money on your degree, an accelerated degree program may be right for you. Institutions nationwide are experimenting with three-year tracks or condensed curricula that reduce both tuition and living expenses. Graduating ahead of schedule not only saves money, but can also give you a head start in the job market, potentially boosting lifetime earnings. However, it’s crucial to plan thoroughly with an academic advisor to ensure you can manage the workload and meet all graduation requirements in a shorter time frame.
Seek Scholarships & Part-Time Work To Supplement Living Costs
While the FAFSA program and other student loan providers offer loans that can cover your personal expenses incurred while studying, consider these a last resort if you can. Scholarship and grant opportunities are abundant but highly competitive, so treat the search for free money like a part-time job. Set aside time each week to research new awards, tailor your applications, and follow up on deadlines. Many students also benefit from work-study programs or part-time roles that offer real-world experience while earning a paycheck. While managing work and studies can be challenging, it can also significantly lower your debt burden upon graduation.
Leverage Community College Transfer Programs
Starting your education at a community college and then transferring to a four-year institution is a proven way to save on tuition costs without sacrificing the quality of your degree. Community colleges typically offer lower tuition rates for general education courses, which are often transferable to universities. By completing your first two years at a community college, you can cut the cost of your education by thousands of dollars. Additionally, many community colleges have formal agreements with nearby universities, ensuring a seamless transition. This pathway allows you to focus your financial resources on the courses and experiences most critical to your major while still earning a degree from a prestigious institution.
Leverage Community College Transfer Programs
Starting your education at a community college and then transferring to a four-year institution is a proven way to save on tuition costs without sacrificing the quality of your degree. Community colleges typically offer lower tuition rates for general education courses, which are often transferable to universities. By completing your first two years at a community college, you can cut the cost of your education by thousands of dollars. Additionally, many community colleges have formal agreements with nearby universities, ensuring a seamless transition. This pathway allows you to focus your financial resources on the courses and experiences most critical to your major while still earning a degree from a prestigious institution.
Continuing Education Brings Continued Value
For many, pursuing higher education is one of the most significant financial investments they will ever make, and the stakes feel higher than ever in a fast-changing job market. The Chegg survey findings signal that students around the world are eager to see universities innovate to reduce costs. And despite their financial concerns, 80% of U.S. undergraduates agreed that their degree program is preparing them well for the job market, and 73% believed their education came at a good value, indicating that advanced degrees are still worthy investments. It’s simply a matter of finding a financial pathway through the system that works best for you.
Read the full article here
