Should you go out of state or stay in your home state for college? Well, it all depends on what’s best for you! So many factors contribute to your perfect college match. A couple of big ones are where the school is located and how much it costs, especially if you’re interested in going to a public college or university. Here are a few pros and cons to consider for each option.
Benefits of staying in state for college
Do you want to go to an in-state school near home (and maybe save your bank account)? Here’s what to know about the benefits to your college costs, family relationships, and overall comfort in college.
College costs
Everybody knows that state schools are usually more budget-friendly than those that require a plane ticket. Attending a college or university in your home state can be a great way to save money for the future, and that’s not a bad thing. There are thousands of resources that can help you save money. However, this doesn’t mean you should compromise your dreams purely to attend a cheaper in-state school.
Related: The Real Cost of College and How to Pay It
Family ties
Staying close to home is another benefit of attending a state school. Having the option of driving home for the weekend to see family and friends is a factor some students might not consider that big of a deal when choosing a college. However, being a few miles away from your family (or even living off campus with them and commuting to college) can be great—not just for free food and laundry but also for comfort and support when you need it.
Local comforts
A big pro of attending an in-state school is you know what you are getting into, a big perk when it comes to comfort. Weather, demographics, and current trends are just a few of the things that will be old hat for you. Knowing the area can be an advantage if it allows you to focus on other aspects of college life, like getting involved in activities and working hard in your classes.
If you’re close to home, there’s also a chance that people who graduated from high school with you will also be attending your in-state college. So there’s the potential for built-in buddies or maybe even roommates. Although there’s also the potential for built-in lingering high school drama…but hopefully you don’t have any of that.
Related: Great Reasons You Should Attend an In-State Public College
Benefits of going out of state for college
Are you thinking you want to spread your wings and travel across the country to an out-of-state school? Here are some of the benefits of taking this big leap into independent adult life.
College costs
Lots of schools offer discounts just for out-of-state students. You might get an out-of-state tuition waiver and/or benefit from a state’s tuition reciprocity agreement. You never know what your financial aid package will be like until you apply to a college, so an out-of-state school might be cheaper than you realize. Focus on finding colleges that fit you first, and don’t give up on a school’s affordability until you know for sure!
Related: Get Past Sticker Price Shock and Bring Down Your College Costs
Change of pace
Going to college is your chance to experience change—in weather, culture, scenery, everything! If you’re like me, you’ve lived in one place for most of your life, and although familiarity may be comfortable and easy, taking a step outside your comfort zone is a wonderful thing and a big part of the whole college experience. Getting to try a new wardrobe for the different seasons, experiencing the atmosphere of a new town on a Friday night, or joining an open mic night at the local coffee shop are all things you might not do if you go to a school close to home.
Adult independence
Moving out of state for college can better prepare you for the challenges of the adult world. This is the perfect opportunity to experience “grown-up life” before it actually comes. It can also help you think about what you want after you graduate. Where do you want to work? Where do you want to live? Are you okay with not seeing your family that often? How are you going to pay off student debt? Living too close to your family can greatly impact all those answers.
Related: Embracing Your College Independence
Considering both in-state and out-of-state colleges can improve your chances of finding your best-fit college. Schools in your state may not meet expectations for your desired size and intended major, or maybe you don’t like the feel of some out-of-state campuses you visit. Expand your horizons outside your home state and both public and private to ensure you find a school that meets all the criteria on your college search rubric.
