A higher education is a very valuable asset. But studying can be expensive, and the cost rises every year.

Start Early

Although education can be expensive, there are lots of things you can do to improve your financial situation while you’re studying. Here are some steps you can start taking today:

• Before you start studying, go over your monthly finances and find a little extra money you can put away. Even $25 or $50 a month can make a big difference.
• Make a commitment to set aside at least that amount each month, and add to it as your income increases.
• Shop around for the best interest rate you can get for your money.

High Return

Because the cost of studying continues to rise, it’s smart to invest your savings so you get the highest interest rate possible. Consider putting your money into:

• Unit trust
• Bonds
• Term deposits

Help Paying for University

One important thing to keep in mind is that you won’t necessarily have to come up with the entire cost of your education. Many higher education institutions offer financial aid in the form of grants and loans, often funded by the government. Different educational institutions also offer financial assistance packages to their students. The idea is to explore, and apply for, a range of different assistance options.