How to Afford Going Back to School...

Did you fill out your FAFSA yet? That is where you need to start. Also a lot of facilities are willing to pay the total cost of school for you if you sign an agreement to work for them for four years after you get the degree. A lot of college students are going this route. My daughters both worked as RA's to help with their college expenses. You can also go to the Career Center on Campus and get work credit. They give you money for that too. Talk to an advisor on Campus and see what will work for you and what won't. Also I think the scholorship web site is FastWeb that is through the Government and you can find scholorships there that you might qualify for.
Hope this helps.

My advice would be save, save , save and pay as much in cash as you possibly can. You've already mentioned some great things about selling a car (we did the same), extra hours, etc, can you sell anything else? This may not be exactly the answer you are looking for, but my husband and I went through a finanacial program almost 2 years ago that has been life changing. The book is called "I Was Broke, Now I'm Not." It's taught us to pay off debt, pay cash, reduce expenses, etc....I know you are looking specifically for how to fund school,but as you mention....finances are terribly stressful. Is there any way to save before you take the courses, so you don't have to get into debt? I wish you lots of luck!! You'll do great, you're already thinking ahead.

Hi, E.,
I guess it depends on what your department has to offer, but I have been able to work 20-hours per week as a graduate assistant (and earn an hourly income) to get tuition waivers. I end up paying about $450-500 in fees per semester for a full 9 hours of courses, rather than the thousands it would cost if I had to pay in full. Plus, I get a bit of income, which helps pay the bills, and I get some good research experience to add to the resume. Definitely look into those kinds of opportunities, both within your academic department and around the university. Because of this, I have not had to take out student loans every semester. Also, I have applied for 3 and received 2 $###-###-#### scholarships...you have to do some research, but they are out there. One was specifically for non-traditional female graduate students who are returning to school after some time. It's amazing what is out there to help.

We have been able to afford one car payment (now payed off!), the mortgage, and daycare for two kids. Oh, and check if your school has any subsidized daycare for students. My daycare costs have been lowered by around $200 or more (that's for two) by getting them into the center with subsidized rates.

Good luck!

A.

You might not want to hear this, but you might consider waiting if the school will let you defer your admission. I'm glad I went back for my master's, but it is very stressful for the whole family. We are slowly still paying back student loans from 9 years ago. Your husband will be taking on a lot, financially and at home, while you study. And babies from 18 months - 2 1/2 years are probably at their most demanding of your time and energy. But if your husband's job is rock solid (no chance of layoffs) and you feel that you just can't wait, definitely try to become a "graduate assistant" at the university. Then the department you are working for will pay some or most of your tuition for the term. And the most important thing is making sure there are jobs in your area that need the new skills you'll have, so you can start right away once you graduate to make up for the time you take off from the workforce. Good luck!!!