College can be one of the biggest investments a family makes — and with tuition, housing, books and everyday living expenses piling up fast, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: there are smart, accessible ways to make a college education affordable without sacrificing quality.
Whether your student is preparing for their senior year of high school or already exploring colleges, it’s never too early — or too late — to get strategic about cost. Here are three proven approaches that help families in metro Detroit make college more manageable.
1. Start with financial aid — every dollar counts
Before choosing a school or signing any forms, it’s essential to understand what college really costs — and what help is available.
“Do the research, look into the cost of tuition and fees,” says Sharon Stanton, former communications specialist at Walsh College.
Many schools strive to keep fees low but it’s important to compare carefully. Once you know what you’ll owe, your next step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — your gateway to federal grants, work-study programs and student loans. Most schools also offer their own scholarships, so always check their website for opportunities for both current and incoming students.
Bonus tip: Don’t overlook local scholarships. Organizations across metro Detroit — from credit unions to nonprofits — offer aid that can be stacked with other funding.
2. Save big by starting at a community college
One of the most cost-effective ways to earn a four-year degree? Spend your first two years at a community college, then transfer to a university.
Families can save thousands in tuition while still setting their student up for a strong academic path. Michigan’s community colleges offer high-quality instruction at a fraction of the cost and many have agreements that make transferring seamless.
“Walsh provides a smooth and seamless transfer process and our students gain the knowledge and practical skills they need to start their careers,” Stanton says.
The same is true for many other premier colleges and universities. Just be sure to work with an academic advisor to confirm which credits will transfer to your target university. Planning ahead ensures that time and money aren’t wasted on non-transferable courses.
Bonus tip: Your graduating high schooler can start with a fast-track program at community college, earn money fast, and then attend a university later — or not. There are many choices to explore.
3. Live at home — and still get the full college experience
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in higher education — but it’s also one of the most flexible. For students with access to reliable transportation, living at home and commuting to class can cut college costs dramatically.
Some students worry that commuting means missing out on social life but that’s often not the case.
“Many nearby colleges that have a high commuter student body have student organizations, networking events, internships and other ways to meet new friends and make professional connections — without paying for a dorm,” says Stanton.
In short: students can still build friendships and develop valuable professional relationships — without having to take on the extra costs of room and board.
Final thoughts: there’s no one-size-fits-all
Every family’s situation is different but one thing is true for all: paying for college doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right mix of financial aid, strategic planning and local resources, students in metro Detroit can access a high-quality education that fits their goals — and their budget.
Starting these conversations early is key. Reach out to college admissions offices, explore community college transfer options and tap into the many tools available to help your family chart a confident course forward.
This post was originally published in 2023 and has been updated to reflect new information and to make the article easier to find.
This content is sponsored by Michigan Education Savings Program. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Making Your Child’s College Dreams Come True.
