Americans are finding ways to save in every place they can these days. It’s everywhere you turn from coupon cutting to do it yourself projects. Now people are even saving on education.

A recent article in the Washington Post took notice of this trend. The article cites a study issued by Sallie Mae that revealed that 22 percent of students from households earning $100,000 or more attended community colleges in the 2010-11 academic year, up from 12 percent in the previous year — which they note is the highest rate reported in the past four years.

The article highlights our very own Northern Virginia Community College, which is the second largest community college in the nation. As quoted in the Post today:

“You could pay for a whole year at NOVA for the amount you pay for room and board somewhere else,” said John Michie, 20, a second-year student at Northern Virginia Community College.

Community college is increasingly becoming more appealing to all types of students. It is no longer a last resort — it’s first choice, even for people who can afford the price of public and private institutions. There are many benefits of community college in addition to the savings.

Getting the general education requirements over and done with
All colleges require them, so why not get them done at half the cost and in a smaller classroom environment. After earning an associate degree through a Virginia community college system you are guaranteed admission into more than 24 universities.

More time to decide exactly what you want to do
Community college automatically builds in two more years for you to decide what career path college students want to follow.

Flexible class schedules
Classes are offered throughout the day, at night, on weekends and even in the summer. It allows students to work, be with their family and hang out with their friends all while earning their degree.

Those are just a few of the additional benefits to community college. What benefits make you put community college at the top of your list?

– Posted by Krystal Gillespie