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What should I know before going to out of state college

I'm asking this because im thinking of going to an out of state college when i graduate. #california

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Kellee’s Answer

What a brave decision to consider! Oh the places you can go, the people you will meet, and the exposure you will have to the "new" and "different". It can be a great experience when you're aware of the challenges you may face. Differentiating factors in deciding to go out of state tend to be school cost and the environment. Here are some steps to help you prepare:

Kellee recommends the following next steps:

Understand the cost of attending. As the "out-of-stater", you may be paying higher tuition than your "in-state" counterparts. Especially if you go to a state school. Tuition is usually the same at private schools for in-state and out-of-state students. Check with the financial aid office and/or the school website for the break-down of tuition and fees for the out-of-state student. In some states, your status can change to "in-state" based on certain criteria. Check out the rules so maybe beginning your 2nd year or so, you could be paying the lower in-state tuition. Also, consider the job market, both on and off-campus if you find yourself needing to work to cover any costs, including the cost of fun. I stayed in-state because the out-of-state private school I got into, and really wanted to go to, did not offer enough financial aid. Better grades and a better score on the SAT could have gotten me a bigger scholarship. My in-state school offered me a scholarship based on my much better ACT scores, which the private school did not accept at the time. Food for thought. :-)
Factor in "home sick" costs. Yep, you may sometimes need a dose of time with family and friends you leave behind. Depending on how far away you are, the cost to visit home, including during breaks and holidays can add up quickly. Budget for these possibilities: Gas, tolls, and car maintenance if you drive back and forth. Plane tickets and fees (including for checked luggage these days) if you fly. Some costs you can share if someone comes with you, some costs you can't. Know the difference.
Check out the environment. If you're able, visit the school more than once before you commit. If you know your deal-breakers, you can test the rest when you begin classes there. Small city, big city or college town? What is the cost of living? (if you go from FL to let's say, NY, you'll have major sticker shock at the cost of apartments, food, and just about everything! :-))Warm weather or snow? On campus or off campus housing? Are there specific rules for freshman only? Do you feel safe, both on and off-campus? What is the schools' emergency response plan, especially for someone who is far from home? Diverse or homogenous student body? Do people seem friendly when you visited? Are activities conveniently available on or off-campus that nourish your passions (faith-based, sports-based, community service, etc.)?
Know thyself before you take the leap. If you were homesick everyday during a week at camp in junior high, you may need to take baby steps before you go too far. Consider starting school in the next county versus the next state, then transfer to a school further away from home when you're ready. College can be stressful enough, so know what you can handle both in and outside of your comfort zone. Get ready, get set, GO!
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Andrew’s Answer

Expect to pay out-of-state tuition if you plan to attend a school out of your home state. However, many schools in your geographic region provide tuition discounts for a wealth of academic programs. Based on your location above, the states that may offer a tuition discount include: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.


Please note, these discounts are typically, if not 100%, applicable to tuition only, which means that room and board, textbooks, and misc. items are not included. Good luck to you in your search!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Savannah,

What to Know Before Going to an Out-of-State College

When considering attending an out-of-state college, there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure a smooth transition and successful academic experience. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Cost and Financial Aid:

Tuition: Out-of-state tuition can be significantly higher than in-state tuition rates. It’s essential to research the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses.
Financial Aid: Explore scholarship opportunities, grants, and financial aid options available for out-of-state students. Some colleges offer merit-based scholarships or discounts for non-resident students.

2. Campus Culture and Environment:

Location: Consider the location of the college and how it aligns with your preferences. Think about factors such as climate, urban or rural setting, proximity to home, and cultural differences.
Campus Life: Research the campus culture, student organizations, extracurricular activities, and support services available for out-of-state students. Visiting the campus or attending virtual events can provide insights into the college community.

3. Academic Programs and Support:

Majors Offered: Evaluate the academic programs offered by the college and ensure they align with your interests and career goals. Look into internship opportunities, research facilities, and faculty expertise in your field of study.
Support Services: Inquire about academic support services such as tutoring, counseling, career guidance, and mentorship programs tailored for out-of-state students. A strong support system can enhance your academic success and overall college experience.

4. Housing Options and Transportation:

Housing: Explore on-campus housing options for out-of-state students or consider off-campus housing arrangements. Understand the costs, amenities, roommate selection process, and meal plans available.
Transportation: Familiarize yourself with transportation options around campus and the local area. Determine if you need a car or if public transportation is accessible for commuting.

5. Health Insurance and Wellness Services:

Health Insurance: Verify if your current health insurance plan provides coverage in the state where the college is located. If not, explore health insurance options offered by the college or through private providers.
Wellness Services: Learn about healthcare facilities on campus, counseling services, mental health resources, and wellness programs available to support students’ physical and emotional well-being.

By considering these aspects before heading to an out-of-state college, you can make informed decisions that contribute to a fulfilling educational experience.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

The College Board: The College Board provides valuable information on college planning, financial aid resources, scholarship opportunities, standardized testing requirements (such as SAT), and tools for comparing colleges based on various criteria.

U.S. News & World Report - Education: U.S. News & World Report’s Education section offers rankings of colleges and universities across different categories like best value schools, undergraduate programs, regional universities, etc., along with articles on college admissions advice and trends in higher education.

National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): NACAC is a trusted source for information on college admissions processes, counseling resources for students exploring higher education options (including out-of-state colleges), ethical standards in admissions practices, and professional development opportunities for counselors.

These sources were consulted to gather reliable information on preparing for attending an out-of-state college successfully.

God Bless You,
JC.
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