There are many routes to a college degree or other post-secondary credential. This overview explains the most common ones and the basics of paying for them.
Four-year colleges and universities
Public and private colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degrees and, often, graduate programs. They vary widely in size, cost, admission requirements, and areas of study. Key questions include which programs a school offers, what it costs after financial aid, and how students there are supported.
Community colleges
Community colleges offer associate degrees, certificates, and courses that can transfer to four-year schools. They are generally open-access and often cost less than four-year schools. Many also offer career and technical programs.
Transfer pathways
Many students start at a community college and transfer to a four-year school to finish a bachelor’s degree. Some states and colleges have transfer agreements that make this smoother. Planning early helps make sure credits count toward the intended degree.
Earning college credit in high school
Dual enrollment lets high school students take college courses and earn credit, sometimes at no cost to families. Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and similar programs can also lead to college credit, depending on each college’s policies.
Financial aid basics
- The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the main form used to determine eligibility for federal grants, work-study, and federal student loans. Many states and colleges use it for their own aid too.
- Grants and scholarships don’t have to be repaid. They can come from the federal government, states, colleges, and private organizations.
- Work-study and loans are other common parts of a financial aid package. Loans must be repaid, so it helps to understand the terms.
- Net price, the cost after grants and scholarships, is often more useful than the published price when comparing schools.
Deadlines matter. Federal, state, and college aid deadlines can differ, so check each one.
Free printables
Download our free College Search Checklist and Financial Aid Offer Comparison worksheet, plus our step-by-step FAFSA Walkthrough (2027–28) (PDFs).
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General information only. Requirements, deadlines, and program availability vary by state, school, and program. Always confirm details with the school, program, or official source.
