For millions of Americans, adult education paves a path to better opportunities and financial prosperity. But obtaining a traditional degree is resource-intensive—requiring a lot of time and considerable costs.
College Isn’t Always the Best Solution
Regarding the latter, The College Board notes that the average cost of obtaining a four-year degree has tripled in the last three decades. The solution? Find alternatives to progress career-wise—case in point supplemental education.
Find What Works Best for YOU!
A traditional degree is not the only rewarding option to achieve financial prosperity. Some lucrative non-degree programs include vocational training, coding boot camps, and industry certification programs. But just like degrees, sometimes it’s not possible to foot the entire supplemental education bill through investments or savings. Luckily, there are lots of options to get tuition money—as shown below:
Student Loans: According to the latest student loan statistics, 45 million borrowers in the U.S. account for a record student loan debt of $1.56 trillion. While this may be deemed a nationwide financial crisis, it also points to the lucrative nature of student loans. These types of loans often offer favorable terms—include forbearance, deferment, and flexible repayment plans. Student loans for supplemental education can be accessed through several lenders and private banks.
Personal Loans: People who cannot access student loans can fund their schooling with a personal loan. They are an excellent option for borrowers with a good credit score and sound financial habits. Depending on your lender (e.g., credit union, non-bank lenders, or commercial banks), it’s possible to negotiate flexible terms.
Applying for Student Grants or Scholarships: Although grants and scholarships are highly competitive, they offer low-cost financing options—especially for disadvantaged students. For example, there are several grants and scholarships for veterans, minority students, low-income students, and students with disabilities. However, keep in mind that scholarships typically cover a portion of the tuition fees—so you have to foot the remainder.
Payment Plans: If your monthly budget is too tight to accommodate additional costs, you can leverage customized installment options available in some supplemental education programs. This option gives you time to plan your expenditures—including applying for loans.
Employer Assistance (Benefits Package): Some employers are more than willing to pay for industry certifications to improve the skills of their workforce. If the employer only covers a portion of the cost, it’s essential to calculate your share and find means to finance it.
You Can Always Find Loans and Other Opportunities to Earn Money for Your Education
Attaining financial prosperity or advancing your career through supplemental education is a challenging endeavor. But with careful planning and supportive financial partners, you can overcome several hurdles and achieve your goals. Always aims to maximize the value of the investment! For more information on the best financing options, reach out to Cash Fast Loan Center today.