Cheapest Four-Year Colleges?

Hey, peeps! I'm trying to balance my college wishlist and, well, reality. With that in mind, does anyone have stats on the cheapest four-year colleges in the U.S.? I’m trying to stay debt-free as much as possible, so any input would be appreciated!

Sure, it's definitely smart to consider cost during your college search. While it can be difficult to provide an exhaustive list of the cheapest colleges since tuition and fees can vary year to year, here are some four-year colleges known for their affordability:

1. Berea College (KY): Berea is unique because it awards every admitted student a Tuition Promise Scholarship, meaning no student pays tuition. Instead, students work on campus at least 10 hours per week.

2. The United States Service Academies (e.g., Naval, Air Force, Army, Coast Guard): Tuition is free, but there is a service requirement after graduation.

3. Brigham Young University (UT): For Latter-Day Saints students, tuition is highly subsidized.

4. Schools in the CUNY and SUNY systems: These public universities and colleges often have lower tuition for in-state students.

5. Some state colleges in the Midwest and South typically have lower tuition rates.

Remember, "cheapest" might not always equal "best." When considering cost, also think about what you're getting for the tuition—class size, faculty quality, career services, etc. The real value may come from programs, support services, and the overall return on investment a college provides.

You should also watch out for colleges that charge low tuition but have high living costs, which could add to your expenses. Look at the total cost of attending—including tuition, room and board, and books—when comparing different colleges. Finally, don't forget about financial aid and scholarships, which can significantly reduce the cost of more expensive colleges. A lot of school's net price (the price you pay after financial aid) is lower than the sticker price.