What creative ways are available to pay for my kids college education, besides scholarships?
Earning too much to qualify for need based aid but not enough to comfortably be full pay is a challenge. It might seem like everyone else is getting merit or need based aid, but it’s not true. Many students start at community college and transfer. If students don’t qualify for merit aid there aren’t very many other options to cover the costs of 4-year schools. US residents can take the federal student loan (~$5500/year). Students can work to help fund the costs, and they can also target less expensive schools. Not exciting options, I know, but they get the job done.
The most creative way to find a great college at an affordable price (that’s also a good fit for your student) is to do your research and encourage them to apply widely. If you have a budget in mind make sure to let them know how much you’re willing/able to spend as early in the process as you can. Apply to a financial safety or two first, and don’t let your children apply to schools you can’t afford. I think in most cases like this it’s the search, not the funding, that has to be creative.