Cheapest route to a degree?

Guys, maybe it's just me stressing out, but university seems so expensive. I'm looking for advice on the least expensive way to get a college degree. Any suggestions would help lighten the worry load a bit. Cheers!

There are several strategies for keeping the cost of college to a minimum. Here are some suggestions.

1. Community College: Starting at a community college and then transferring to a 4-year institution can save you a lot of money. Community colleges often have lower tuition and fees, and you can complete your general education requirements before transferring to a 4-year university to complete your major-specific courses.

2. In-State Tuition: Attending a public university in your home state can be a significantly cost-effective choice since in-state tuition rates are often much lower than those for out-of-state students.

3. Online Courses: Some online programs can be less expensive than traditional ones. Look into universities that offer the degree you want in an online format.

4. Work-Study Programs: Federal Work-Study provides part-time jobs for students with financial need. This can help reduce the amount you need to borrow to pay for education expenses.

5. Scholarships and Grants: Apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible. This is free money that doesn't need to be paid back, and it can significantly decrease your college costs. There are thousands of scholarships available every year, some based on merit, and others on need.

6. AP, IB, and CLEP Credits: Taking Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests can earn you college credit for knowledge you already have, reducing the number of classes you need to take.

7. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): If you plan to work in a public service job, such as teaching or working for a nonprofit, the PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on your Direct Loans after you have made 120 qualifying monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer.

Thus, the cheapest route to a degree might vary depending on your specific circumstances and goals, but these strategies could help you reduce the costs significantly.