Decreased student enrollment a concern

Higher costs and student loans should not deter prospective students if they seek alternatives.

08:26 07 July 2013

There has been a significant decrease in the number of university students who are attending part-time after the higher fees. Students may not feel they have adequate access to student loans to cover their education, or may not feel capable of repaying the loans.

 

The universities are concerned about learners from all walks of life and age groups because the economy is in need of educated people to fill positions that require a certain level of skill, and they want to ensure they are meeting the needs.

Cost is a valid concern for students because it is an investment during an economic struggle that carries no guarantee of proper employment afterwards, and that could land graduates with hefty student loan payments.

 

Here are a few ways to try and obtain training that works for you:

• Employers—some employers need specialized help. You can converse with your current employer to find out if they have a need and whether or not they might contribute to funding your education or repaying your student loans. If they make a special agreement for you, be sure to get it in writing and signed by someone with the proper authority at the company.

 

• Grants—student loans are not the only type of funding available to university students. There are a number of grants that might benefit students and that can relieve the burden of having to repay. This allows them to become educated without a risk that might seem too high otherwise

 

• Scholarships—tech-savvy students can use the internet to their advantage to locate scholarships that might be available through sources besides the university they are attending. Scholarships usually range in amount, and more than one can usually be used if available. This may leave very little left for student loans to cover making repayment much more feasible.