I've heard there are scholarships to help with college tour expenses—does anyone know if they're really a thing and how I can apply for one? Planning visits can get so pricey!
Indeed, college tour expenses can accumulate quickly, especially when you're considering schools that are out of state. Typically, colleges do not offer scholarships for on-campus visits. However, there are a few strategies you can use to cut down on costs:
1. Group Visits: Many high schools and community organizations plan bus tours of colleges, which you might be able to join for a reduced price. They usually cover transportation, food, and sometimes even accommodation. Check with your school's guidance counselor or local community centers to see if any are planning such tours.
2. Fly-in Programs: These are programs hosted by colleges where they cover all or part of the costs for prospective students to visit their campus. These programs are usually targeted toward low income, first generation, or underrepresented students, and often require a separate application.
3. Scholarship Funds: Some scholarship funds can be used for a variety of educational expenses, including college visits. Therefore, you could consider scholarships like those. Do some research on Appily or other scholarship databases.
4. Check with the College: If there's a specific college you're deeply interested in, but financial constraints are restricting you from visiting, reach out to the admissions office. They may have resources to help, or they could connect you with local alumni who might be willing to host you.
Remember that in-person college tours, while beneficial, are not the only way to get a feel for a school. Virtual tours and online information sessions can also provide you with valuable insights about the college environment and academics.
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