5 Ways To Save on College Costs

Let’s face it: College can be expensive. As you and your student explore college options, costs are likely one of the key factors you’re keeping in mind.

At Cedarville, we strive to make a Christian education affordable for any student who wants one. That’s why our freshman students were awarded an average of $26,150 in scholarships and grants last year.

It's also why we’ve written today’s blog post for you! Read on for five ways your student can maximize their college savings to keep college affordable for you.

Explore Scholarships and Grants

Make sure you explore each college’s scholarship options carefully. Completing your FAFSA will make you eligible for many needs-based scholarships, but there are others that require applications, so be diligent!

Many colleges offer academic program scholarships, athletic scholarships, donor-funded scholarships, and even military aid/ROTC scholarships. Additional scholarships can be found in your local community or online through sites like fastweb.com.

For new and qualifying freshman students beginning fall 2025, Cedarville University will offer the President's Scholar Award to recognize their academic achievements. Cedarville’s President’s Ministry Impact Scholarship is awarded to selected students whose parents are in full-time ministry. The Dr. Deforia Lane Kingdom Diversity Scholarship is awarded to select students seeking to enhance the Cedarville Community through their personal experience and appreciation for racial, ethnic, economic, and cultural diversity.

Cedarville offers many other Program-Specific Scholarships and Athletic Scholarships, as well as donor-funded scholarships with separate applications. Additional military aid scholarships are available for ROTC cadets and students receiving VA benefits.

To explore Cedarville scholarship options, visit cedarville.edu/scholarships.

Take Advantage of Tuition Block Pricing

Some schools, including Cedarville, use tuition block pricing, meaning your student will pay the same amount for a certain range of credit hours. If your student can comfortably take a higher number of credits without compromising on their academic performance, these extra credits can save you money in the long run. Cedarville’s block tuition pricing covers 12–17 credits and is designed to provide maximum value for your money.

Find an On-Campus Job ... or Two!

Many students choose to find a job — or two! — during the summer months or while home for breaks. Encourage your student to be creative and use personal contacts to find a job that fits their needs. Even part-time and temporary jobs can add up to help with tuition or expenses during the school year.

Cedarville offers a variety of on-campus jobs every semester to help students fill gaps in their finances and keep the campus running smoothly! Some jobs, like food services or grounds team, are applicable for students in every major. Other roles, like writing tutoring, lab assistant positions, and IT support, give our students experience in their field of study. 

Graduate Early

More and more students are choosing to complete college early. The early graduation options offered by the colleges your student is considering may vary, but these often include dual enrollment, three-year degrees, and dual degrees. 

Dual enrollment is a great way for high school students to save money and get ahead on their college degree path! Students in Ohio can even take Cedarville dual enrollment courses for free through College Credit Plus. Learn more at cedarville.edu/admissions/dual-enrollment. 

By choosing to fast-track their college experience with a three-year degree, your student could save on college costs, not to mention the opportunity to start earning a salary sooner. Cedarville offers 14 popular three-year degree options.

Choosing dual degrees will allow your student to complete their education in less time and for less money. Cedarville's bachelor's-to-master's degree pathways will help your student achieve both degrees in a fraction of the time.

See cedarville.edu/admissions/graduate-early for more information. 

Consider an Online Program

Starting fall 2025, Cedarville will offer online undergraduate degree programs. These programs provide the same top-quality education you expect from Cedarville while allowing your student flexibility to study on their own time from wherever God has called them to be.

While not for everyone, an online degree program can save the cost of room and board while your student lives at home and is also flexible so your student can work to support their degree.

For more information, visit cedarville.edu/admissions/online-programs.