Graduating college early is an option for those who want to get ahead in life. It’s also a way to save money. In fact, it’s estimated that students graduating early can save $11,000 per year.
While there are pros and cons to graduating early, it’s definitely worth considering if you’re serious about your education.
Here are 3 reasons why you should consider graduating early.
1. Save Money
The first reason why you should consider graduating college early is because it could save you a lot of money.
If you decide to attend college full-time, you’ll spend around $50,000 on tuition alone. By graduating early, you’ll only pay around $35,000.
So, you’ll end up saving around $15,000.
2. Decisions about college
College experience can be overwhelming. You have so many decisions to make: where do I go? What major am I going into?
How much will my loans cost me? Will this school help me find a job after graduation?
By making these important decisions when you’re still young, you won’t feel as overwhelmed once you start attending classes.
Plus, the sooner you begin thinking about what kind of career path you’d like to pursue, the better off you’ll be.
3. No time in college
Some college student don’t have enough free time during their four years at university. They work too hard studying or they just aren’t interested in learning anything new.
This means that by the time they finish college, they haven’t learned very much.
However, if you choose to graduate early, then you’ll already know how to succeed in high school. That way, you’ll be able to focus more on other things such as finding a good job.
Graduate early from college pro’s and cons
Traditional college education are great but not everyone has the same opportunities. Some people may need to take longer than others to complete their degree.
This is especially true with online degrees. If you’re looking for a traditional 4-year bachelor’s program, you might want to think twice before choosing one based solely on its reputation.
Graduate early from college can also mean missing out on some valuable experiences. For example, you might miss out on taking part in campus activities.
Or maybe you didn’t meet any friends while you were away.
On top of all that, you might even lose out on financial aid. This is because most colleges require students to stay enrolled until they receive their diploma.
Pros
- You can earn credits while working part-time.
- It gives you the opportunity to explore different careers without having to commit yourself fully.
- Lightest college load are available.
Cons
- You might miss out on socializing with classmates.
- Your grades might suffer since you weren’t focused on academics.
- College credits are lower quality.
- Your school credit are not transferable.
Graduate from college early by taking CLEP exams
If you have taken AP courses in high school or scored well enough on your standardized tests, you may be able to skip the introductory course to pursue the next level, which knocks another course off your list.
CLEP stands for Credit by Examination Program. It allows students who wish to test their knowledge outside of regular classroom settings.
You must pass all sections of the exam to receive credit. The cost varies depending upon how many credits you earn.
Some universities offer free CLEP exams while others charge $50-$100 per test. You should check with your university about whether it offers any scholarships for CLEP exams.
There are three types of CLEP exams: multiple choice, essay- based, and performance-based. Each type requires slightly different preparation.
- Multiple choice exams
These questions ask you to select an answer among several choices. To prepare for this type of exam, read through each question carefully. Then, practice answering them using flashcards.
- Essay based exam
The format of this exam is similar to the SAT writing section. However, instead of being asked to write a short story, you will be given five minutes to respond to a series of prompts.
- Performance based exam
In order to score highly on these exams, you must demonstrate mastery over certain topics. These include reading comprehension, math skills, vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and critical thinking.
To help improve your scores, try practicing at home. Practice solving problems under time constraints.
Also, make sure to review your answers after completing the exam so you don’t forget anything important.
Tips for college students who want to finish college degree
College degrees are hard to get these days. The cost of tuition has skyrocketed and the job market is saturated with people who have college degrees.
So if you’re looking to get a college degree, where should you start?
If you’re interested in an online college degree, there are several options out there. Each option comes with its pros and cons so it’s important to research each before making a decision.
There are college course offerings that can be completed entirely online. This includes bachelor’s degrees as well as associate’s degrees.
Online colleges also provide certificate programs that allow you to complete specific classes within one year.
Some certificates require only 20 hours of study whereas other certificates take up to four years to complete.
Another way to go back to school is to attend community college first. Community colleges often offer more affordable prices than traditional schools.
They also give you access to campus life and networking opportunities.
Here are some tips for those interested in pursuing an online college degree.
- Study hard
College classes are very difficult If you aren’t prepared when you arrive, you’ll struggle to keep pace. So do yourself a favor and spend extra time studying ahead of time.
Make use of tutoring services or join a study group. Also, consider taking advantage of resources like Khan Academy which provides video tutorials on various subjects.
- Get involved in sports
Involving on campus activities helps build confidence and social connections. It also gives you something else to focus on besides academics.
Join clubs and organizations that interest you. For example, if you enjoy playing basketball, find a team near you.
- Take part in extracurriculars
Many colleges encourage their students to participate in extracurricular activities. They believe that participating in such activities makes you stand out from the crowd.
For instance, many colleges hold student government elections during fall semester.
- Be responsible
Being responsible for your own education means doing all the work required to succeed. You need to set aside enough time to prepare for class assignments.
You also need to stay organized by keeping track of deadlines and meeting them. Finally, you need to maintain good grades because they reflect positively on your overall performance.
- Have fun
Having fun in right way while going through college isn’t easy but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. College is supposed to be enjoyable and having fun will help you relax and learn better.
It may seem counterintuitive at first but once you’ve finished your studies, you’ll realize how much easier it was to concentrate without distractions around.
Remember: A college degree opens doors for future employment. But getting into a top-tier university requires dedication and effort.
- Make friends
Making friends in college is essential. Not just for social reasons, but also because these friendships will last long after graduation.
So make sure you get along with people who share similar interests. Join groups where you have common goals and hobbies.
Also, don’t forget about joining intramural teams. These are usually made up of members from different majors and backgrounds.
- Find mentors
Mentors play a crucial role in helping young adults achieve success. Mentorship relationships should start off informal and evolve over time.
- Keep your grades up
College level courses are challenging. That’s why maintaining high academic standards is important.
If you want to improve your chances of being accepted into a prestigious institution, then you must strive to earn excellent marks.
Don’t let procrastination ruin your GPA. Instead, take control of your schedule and stick to regular study hours.
- Stay focused
Staying focused throughout college can be tough. There are so many things competing for attention.
That’s why it’s vital to establish priorities and follow them consistently.
- Take care of yourself
Taking care of your self is a big deal when attending school fulltime. This includes eating healthy food, exercising regularly, sleeping well and taking breaks whenever needed.
These habits will keep you mentally sharp and physically fit.
- Don’t drink too much
Drinking on college are very risky it’s because, It can affect your study goals and academic performance. This can lead you to cutting classes and absence from class.
A Wife, a mum and a Tutor! I am the Lead Editor at TheTutor.Link & also the Head Tutor there. I love teaching seeing young minds flourish. I also love blogging and sharing my experience on the world wide web.