What are some good inexpensive colleges?

I'm just starting the whole college application process and, not gonna lie, the tuition prices are kind of freaking me out. Can you help me out with a list of some good, affordable universities or colleges?

Absolutely, I understand where you're coming from; tuition prices can be daunting. There are some schools that are known for offering a quality education at a lower cost. Here are some options you might want to consider:

1. University of North Florida: As part of the State University System of Florida, it offers a competitive tuition rate. Plus, it provides a range of scholarship offerings that can help further reduce the cost.

2. City University of New York (CUNY): There are many CUNY campuses, from Baruch to Hunter, that offer excellent programs at reasonable in-state rates. But even the out-of-state rate is more affordable compared to many universities.

3. California State University (CSU) System: This system hosts 23 campuses that provide students with wide-ranging academic choices, often at a fraction of the cost of private universities.

4. University of Texas–El Paso: This university is dedicated to providing high-quality education at a low cost. It ranks consistently as one of the top universities in terms of social mobility or helping students climb the economic ladder.

5. Berea College: This is one of the few colleges in the U.S. that offers every student a no-tuition promise, helping make college affordable to all students regardless of their financial situation.

Keep in mind that the sticker price isn't necessarily what you'll end up paying. Financial aid can have a significant impact on the actual costs, so don't forget to submit your FAFSA to see what kind of aid you may qualify for. Additionally, if you're a strong applicant, merit-based scholarships from the college can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

You can also focus your efforts on schools that meet 100% of demonstrated need like Vanderbilt, which means they will make sure your financial needs are met if you're accepted. Although this route might seem more expensive initially, those schools can actually end up more affordable because of their commitment to providing sufficient financial aid. Remember, affordability doesn't only mean low tuition; it also means getting a quality education that will help you succeed after graduation. Be sure to consider the school's reputation, alumni network, and job placement rate when making your decision.