Choosing Where to Study

The first thing you need to think about is what kind of job or career you are aiming for. Then find out whether you need a particular type of qualification for that job. For example, if you want to be a teacher, you will need a Bachelor of Education degree or a teaching Diploma. Make the decision about whether you need a degree, a diploma, or a certificate. You also need to think about whether you will study full- or part-time, or whether distance learning might be better for you.

For example, if you look for colleges and universities in South Africa, the Central Applications Office website can be of help. If you are interested in studying in the U.S., the My College Options website will help you explore your school-choice options.

Then you need to think about the location - do you need to live with your parents while you are studying to save costs? Then you will need to find an institution close to home. Some courses are only available at particular institutions, so you may have to stay in a different place if you plan on doing that course.

Get more information and advice to explore your school choice options.

How can you afford to study now (or very soon)?

There are many ways to afford tuition and help pay for other expenses even if the student is starting very soon or is already studying. For some programs, it depends on your financial situation. For other financial help, it depends on the student's grades and achievements.

Free Financial Aid 

With free financial aid programs, you are given money to help pay for higher education expenses. You do not need to repay the money you receive.

Scholarships 

Scholarships are a type of financial aid award given to students based on academic achievements (or having good grades in school), financial need, participation or interest in sports or drama, or a variety of other requirements.

Bursaries

Bursaries are awarded based on merit and need. The terms of bursaries differ - some are 'no ties', others require you to work for the company that awarded the bursary when you finish your studies.

Education Loans

There are loan programs that come from the government or from banks. You will need to pay back the money you are given. Learn more about these loans.

Student Loans

Students apply for loans to help pay for their higher education expenses.

Additional Ways to Make Studying Affordable

Financial aid, education loans, and scholarships do help families and students afford to pay for college. Find out more about these programs from your high school guidance counselor, local library, or the Financial Aid office at your chosen institution.

But there are also other ways to make studying more affordable, especially for families who aren't comfortable taking out a loan. These ideas are things that students could to do in order to afford higher education.

Stay at home

Unless you have to travel in order to do the course you want, stay with family while you are studying to cut the cost of residence fees. If you do need to live away from home, try to find options that are cheaper than residence, such as shared accommodation, or staying with a family member in that town.

Work while you study

By working part-time while studying, you can help pay for some of your expenses. You can study part-time at an institution, or do a correspondence course (distance learning). Many HE institutions have special 'student job-shops' on campus that help students to find part-time jobs. You can also sign up with 'Find a Student' online.

Meet with a counselor at your institution's financial aid office

Your institution may be able to offer additional financial aid programs. Make sure to make an appointment with a financial aid counselor to find out what other options might be available.