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Applying to college can be both time-consuming and expensive — with some schools charging as much as $75 just to apply. Fortunately, there are ways to make the process easier, and potentially cheaper.

The Common Application (or Common App) is an online college application platform used by more than 1,000 colleges that allows you to apply to multiple schools using one centralized application. The bulk of the application questions only need to be filled out once, though certain colleges and universities might also require supplements, such as short answer questions and/or essay prompts specific to that school. The new edition of the Common App opens Aug. 1 every year.

The Common App also provides students with valuable resources for the application process, including step-by-step application guidelines, information about financial aid and scholarship options, as well as how to get your application fee waived.

How Much Does the Common App Cost?

Although the Common App is free to use, individual schools often have their own application fees that students must pay to apply. The average undergraduate application fee for U.S. students is $56. However, some schools don’t charge application fees.

The Common App organization understands that some students are unable to pay application fees, and they don’t want this to be a barrier for students to be able to apply for college. For this reason, they have created the Common App Fee Waiver, which allows students to apply to schools without any fees.

Not every school will accept a fee waiver but thousands of schools around the world do.


💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

How the Common App Fee Waiver Works

You can use the Common App Fee Waiver section of your Profile to request a fee waiver. If you select that you are eligible for the Common App fee waiver, you will not be charged any application fees when you submit through Common App.

Recommended: Ultimate College Application Checklist

How to Apply

Students can apply for the Common App Fee Waiver in the Personal Information or Profile section of their application. There is a place in this section to select “Yes” to apply for the waiver and indicate eligibility.

In order to complete the application for a Fee Waiver, students must also have their college counselor submit a fee waiver form.

Many schools use the honor system and trust that a form from a counselor proves a student’s eligibility, but some schools may ask for electronic or hard copies of paperwork for verification of eligibility.

Recommended: Important College Application Deadlines

Who is Eligible?

Students who fit any of the following criteria may be eligible to receive a Common App Fee Waiver:

•   Students who are orphans or wards of the state
•   Students whose family receives public assistance
•   Students who received or are eligible to receive SAT or ACT testing fee waivers
•   Students enrolled in or eligible to enroll in Federal Free or Reduced Price Lunch Programs
•   Students whose family’s annual income fits the eligibility for the USDA Food and Nutrition Service
•   Students enrolled in local, state, or federal aid programs for low-income families
•   Students who are homeless, live in a foster home or in federally subsidized public housing
•   Students who get a written statement from a community leader, financial aid officer, school counselor or official

Each school decides whether to grant a student’s request for a Common App Fee Waiver.


💡 Quick Tip: Federal student loans carry an origination or processing fee (1.057% for Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans first disbursed from Oct. 1, 2020, through Oct. 1, 2024). The fee is subtracted from your loan amount, which is why the amount disbursed is less than the amount you borrowed. That said, some private student loan lenders don’t charge an origination fee.

Beyond the Application: Paying for College

Students and families applying for Common App Fee Waivers may also be looking into financing options to pay for college tuition. There are several options for parents and students who need help paying for college. These include:

Filling out the FAFSA

The first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Even if you don’t think you will qualify for aid, it’s a good idea to fill out this form. The FAFSA opens up opportunities for students to receive student loans, federal grants, school aid, and work-study positions.

Applying for Scholarships

There are thousands of private scholarships available to students, and the benefit of scholarships is that they don’t have to be paid back, unlike student loans.

Finding Affordable Schools

Although some universities cost tens of thousands of dollars each year to attend, others are much more affordable. Some schools are also more generous with student financial aid than others. Students may want to carefully compare the financial aid packages offered to them to figure out which school is the most affordable for them.

Applying for Work-Study Jobs

Students can work part time to help pay for college. The federal work-study program provides work opportunities for students to get jobs on campus.

Applying for Grants

In addition to scholarships, there are thousands of grants available to students. These grants are issued by the federal government, the Pell program, and individual states. Some are need-based, while others are merit-based. To find out if you qualify and to become eligible for grants, you need to fill out the FAFSA.

Saving Money in a 529 Plan

Many families put money aside each month to help pay for college tuition. One way to do this is using a 529 Plan, which is an investment account that offers tax benefits when used to pay for qualified education expenses for a designated beneficiary.

Taking out Federal Loans

Federal student loans are administered by the U.S. Department of Education, and may be subsidized (which means you won’t be charged interest while you are in college and for six months after) or unsubsidized (meaning interest starts accruing right away). Federal loans tend to have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment plans than private loans.

To qualify for a federal loan, you will need to complete and submit the FAFSA.

Taking out Private Loans

Another option for covering the cost of attendance for college is to take out a private student loan. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates tend to be higher than federal student loans, but borrowing limits are typically higher. These loans are not need-based and generally require a credit check. Borrowers (or cosigners) with excellent credit tend to qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind that private student loans may not offer the same borrower protections that federal student loans offer, such as forbearance or income-driven repayment plans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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Can you help your child study for the SAT? Yes!

When it comes to gearing up for college, parents can play a major role in supporting their child’s success. Of course, ultimately, it’s the student who’s applying for admission. So, most of the heavy lifting — like practicing for the SAT — will fall to the high schooler. But, as your child goes through the process, you can serve as a couch, cheerleader and time-manager — assisting with test prep, scheduling practice sessions, and maintaining motivation.

Read on for simple guidelines on how you can help your child with SAT practice and help ensure they put their best foot forward on testing day.

Wondering Where to Begin?

You may want to start by familiarizing yourself with the college testing options. The SAT and ACT are the two most widely accepted standardized tests used in U.S. college admissions. Is one a better fit for your child? While similar, there are differences in how each test is structured and scored. For parents and students who want a better feel for the two tests, you can find free online practice assessments for both the SAT and the ACT — including sample questions and scoring.

If you took the SAT back in high school, keep in mind that the test underwent major revisions in 2016. And, in 2021, the College Board (the nonprofit organization that administers the test) dropped the essay and subject tests.

Generally, the College Board advises first-timers to take the SAT in the spring of their high school junior year. This way, they can try again in the fall (if they want or need to improve their score) and still meet most colleges’ application deadlines. Parents can find information about SAT test dates and deadlines, test-center locations, and costs on the College Board site.


💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find much lower rates on no-fee private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

Creating a Plan for SAT Practice

With the exact test and date chosen, parents and students might next turn their focus to SAT practice. Practice can span activities like taking sample tests, understanding the sorts of questions that are commonly asked, and figuring out how the test is scored.

Setting Baseline and Goal Scores

When starting out, many students choose to take a free practice test. This gives them a baseline score and can help identify tough topics they need to brush up on. Practice tests can also help you and your teen pinpoint the specific types of questions that tend to trip them up over and over.

Knowing the practice-test score can help students set an ambitious-yet-realistic goal score for the official test. Other supportive figures on your child’s “SAT team” (relatives, teachers, guidance counselors, mentors, or tutors) can also help them identify an achievable and motivational target score to work towards.

Recommended: ACT vs. SAT: Which Do Colleges Prefer?

Creating an SAT Prep Schedule

Beginning SAT practice earlier can help alleviate your teen’s anxiety in the buildup to the scheduled test. The nonprofit Khan Academy, which partners with the College Board to help students prepare for the SAT, recommends starting test-prep about three months before taking the official test.

Months of SAT practice might seem a tad extreme, but it’s key to remember that some students need longer than others to get up to speed on the subjects covered in the SAT. Building in a cushion of prep time also gives teens ample time to adapt to the standardized test format — allowing them to sniff out the common types of questions asked and get used to the time constraints required by the SAT.

Some students can cram last-minute for the SAT and still earn a solid score. But many of the best test-taking and SAT study strategies call for repeated practice over multiple weeks. Given months instead of a few weeks to get ready, you can set up practice sessions that mimic test-like conditions, encouraging your child to further hone their time-management and concentration skills.

Leading up to the test date, families may also benefit from a shared calendar that includes important SAT deadlines as well as other school, work, and social events. A shared calendar can help students dedicate regular study windows — when they’ll work alone, with a parent, or with a tutor — that won’t clash with prior commitments.

To Push or Not to Push?

Some teens are disciplined studiers and may already have a test-prep routine that works for them. Others might need occasional encouragement (or more concrete guideposts) from a parent or educator to set aside adequate time for SAT practice.

Some students also respond well to personalized pointers provided by a test-prep service or tutor, whereas others value a more DIY or independent approach to SAT prep — perhaps working off a commercial study guide or online testing site. (Khan Academy, for instance, offers tailored practice plans, videos, test-taking tips, and other official content created in partnership with the College Board.) In either scenario, parents can help their child determine which method of test-prep works best with their study habits.

Recommended: College Planning Guide for Parents

What About Paid SAT Prep Services?

When deciding whether to pay for a test-prep service, families may want to ponder a few factors. You might begin by comparing a child’s baseline score (on a practice test) with the goal score they’re hoping for on the actual test day. This might help you decide if investing in a professional SAT prep course would be worth the cost (some services cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars). Another factor to consider is the average SAT scores of applicants at your child’s target schools (compared to their current scoring range).

You might also want to investigate whether any test-prep services are already offered at your child’s school or any local educational organizations, which may be free or low cost.

When looking at paid prep services, you may want to consider the best study conditions for your student’s personality and academic strengths — some approaches offer more guidance, while others stress independent practice.

Also consider: Would your child benefit from a structured schedule and in-person classes? Or, would they prefer a more independent study approach? You might want to consult with a guidance counselor or teacher for input before signing up and paying for a private SAT prep service. Family friends with children already in college might also offer an opinion based on their previous experience. (But, be sure to double-check this advice with any recent changes to the SAT.)

Recommended: Ultimate College Application Checklist

What Else Can Parents Do for SAT Practice?

Perhaps the most important role parents can have in helping their children prepare for the SAT is to do what they’ve always done — and that’s to support and encourage their child’s growth. Here are some ways parents might motivate students, helping them to stay on track toward that college-admission goal.

Avoid Adding to the Stress

Students can feel a great deal of pressure when preparing for the SAT. They may fret about disappointing their parents’ or teachers’ expectations. Some might dread feeling embarrassed if they score lower than a sibling or classmates. And, if a student has dreamed about attending a specific college or pursuing a precise career path, they may worry that the “wrong score” will sabotage their future plans.

Given the potential for SAT practice to turn into a psychological pressure-cooker, you may want to remind yourself that your words and deeds can lessen or intensify a child’s stress. Raising “concerns” about your teen’s current scores and/or pushing your child to excel or “do better” could increase your child’s test anxiety (and potentially make it harder for them to learn new material).

To minimize the at-home testing drama, you may want to avoid showing disappointment or frustration about practice test scores. It may be more helpful to celebrate incremental successes during weekly or daily practice sessions — honoring the progress being made towards the goal, not the distance still left to run. Gentle reminders that it’s possible to retake the SAT might also reduce a child’s overall testing anxiety.

Encouraging Healthy Habits

Studying late into the night or having a jam-packed schedule can leave high schoolers feeling burnt out. To avoid SAT practice burnout, consider instituting a regular “timeout” from test prep — whether it’s a quick snack break or carving out down time for a walk around the block. Parents can help kids stay healthy by providing nourishing meals, scheduling time for exercise and other social activities, providing plenty of water and nutritious snacks, and helping their teens get ample rest each day.

Recommended: 10 Ways to Prepare for College

Providing a Good Study Space

To help your child set up a focused study environment, you’ll want to first identify a quiet space for studying and practice sessions. Next, you can help your child gather all the study guides, calculators, pencils, paper or computers they’ll need to prep.

In addition, you may want to encourage your child to download an SAT prep app — this will allow them to practice during free time or when they’re riding the bus. Many apps offer practice problems or a “question of the day.” If time is tight, a student can still squeeze in some studying in down moments.

Recommended: How Much Does GPA Matter When Applying to College?

Keeping Things in Perspective

Parental pep talks can help test-engrossed students to keep things in perspective. Although an SAT score is a significant factor in many college admissions decisions, it’s not the only (or primary) factor universities take into consideration when evaluating applicants. Most admissions committees review a student’s academic record, school and community involvement, personal statement, and letters of support.

Some schools have even moved to a “test optional” admissions policy in recent years. This means students are not required to submit an SAT or ACT score with their application. Open communication about the college admissions process can help students to focus on the short-term tasks at hand.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

Getting Started

The SAT isn’t the only aspect of college planning students might want or need help with. You may be enlisted to lend a hand with researching schools to apply to, choosing a major, making college visits, and proof-reading essays and applications.
Your child will also likely need your financial help to cover the cost of attendance at their selected college. Fortunately, both students and parents have a number of resources that help make college more affordable, including financial aid.

To apply for financial aid, you’ll need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know if you are eligible for aid, which comes in the form of grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans (which may be subsidized or unsubsidized). If those do not cover your costs, you may be able to fill in the gaps with a private student loan.

Private student loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or parent cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment plans and deferment — that automatically come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Being a train conductor allows you to take people and essential goods where they need to go, see the country, and get paid while doing it. In fact, a competitive salary is often one of the big draws of the field. But just how much does a train conductor make? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for a train conductor is $68,180.

If that salary sounds appealing, keep reading to learn what train conductors do, how much they stand to make in different states, and the pros and cons of the job.

What Is a Train Conductor?

If you’ve ever dreamed of yelling “all aboard” and taking the wheel of a train, then you may find satisfaction as a train conductor. This type of trade job is responsible for organizing and overseeing various activities within a railroad yard, industrial plant, or similar locations. They play a vital role in coordinating the actions of the train crew, whether on passenger trains or freight trains. Additionally, yardmasters take charge of reviewing train schedules and switching orders while ensuring smooth coordination among workers involved in railroad traffic operations, including train assembly, disassembly, and yard switching tasks.

Working as a train conductor can be stressful and requires attention to detail. However, introverts may find that they love this job as it requires minimum interactions with other people.

Recommended: 15 Entry-Level Jobs for Antisocial People

How Much Is a Train Conductor’s Starting Salary?

How much money does a train conductor make? According to the latest BLS data, annual salaries range from a low of $49,680, which is most likely what entry-level conductors earn, all the way up to $88,230 or more. As workers gain more years of experience, they can expect to see their salary increase. At the very least, they should always expect to make the minimum wage in their state.


💡 Quick Tip: Online tools make tracking your spending a breeze: You can easily set up budgets, then get instant updates on your progress, spot upcoming bills, analyze your spending habits, and more.

What Is the Average Salary for a Train Conductor?

While most people don’t focus their job search on trying to find the highest-paying job in their state, it’s a good idea to do salary research before pursuing a new career path.

So how much does a train conductor make per hour? Typically, train conductors earn a median hourly wage of $32.78, but that rate differs by state. Take a look at the following table to get an idea of what train conductors can earn in different states.

Recommended: Is a $100,000 Salary Good?

Train Conductor Benefits & Job Considerations

Most train conductors work full time and are eligible for employer benefits on top of their salary. Benefits like health insurance and paid time off can be valuable and increase the overall value of a compensation package.

Savvy employers know that alongside offering a competitive salary, a robust benefits package can attract and retain top talent. Common employee benefits that train conductors may expect to see include:

•   Health insurance

•   Dental insurance

•   Vision insurance

•   Flexible spending account

•   Paid time off

•   Employee assistance program

•   Life and disability insurance

•   Retirement savings plan

Pros and Cons of Train Conductor Salary

Like any job, working as a train conductor comes with a unique set of advantages and disadvantages that are worth being aware of.

Pros

•   Minimal educational requirements, making it accessible to a broader range of individuals

•   Job training is provided by employers, allowing for on-the-job skill development

•   Regular rest hours are enforced, ensuring a reasonable work-life balance

Cons

•   Federal licensure requirements add an additional step to the process

•   The job can be physically demanding, especially in challenging weather conditions

•   Work weeks may extend beyond the standard 40 hours, leading to potential overtime hours

•   Irregular scheduling is common, which can make it challenging to maintain a consistent routine

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

Considering a job as a train conductor? Though rewarding, this line of work is also high stakes, and anyone considering this career path needs to be prepared to take the responsibility seriously. It’s also important to understand what the position typically pays and what your earning potential could be. The median annual salary train conductors earn is $68,180, but train conductors with many years of experience can expect to earn more than this.

FAQ

What is the highest paying railroad job?

If someone is looking to make the most money possible as a train conductor, they may want to consider working for their state government. According to BLS data, train conductors who work for state governments earn a median salary of just over $100,000 per year.

Do train conductors make six figures?

How much does a train conductor make per year, and can they earn a six-figure salary? The good news is that it is possible to earn six figures as a train conductor. While the average train conductor earns a median salary of $68,180, train conductors employed by state governments earn a median of $100,770 each year.

What is the average age for a train conductor?

Many people find fulfilling careers as train conductors at all different ages. That said, the average age for a train conductor is 41.

Photo credit: iStock/Laser1987

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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If someone has a love of animals and is looking to embark on a rewarding new career path, they may consider becoming a vet tech. While earning potential is not the only reason to pursue a career, it’s helpful to get an idea of a possible salary range before working towards a career as a vet tech. So, how much does a vet tech make? According to the latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for a vet tech is $36,850.

Read on to learn more about how much vet techs make, how salaries vary by state, and what this type of job entails.

What Is a Vet Tech?

Vet techs, also known as veterinary technologists and technicians, work in veterinary clinics and hospitals, under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. A vet tech can help with a wide variety of tasks around the office, such as obtaining patient case histories, collecting specimens, assisting in diagnostic and surgical procedures, and preparing animals and equipment for surgery. Other vet techs tasks may include:

•   Ensure humane care of animals

•   Provide specialized nursing care

•   Bathe and groom animals

•   Expose and develop X-rays

•   Collect and perform laboratory tests

•   Restrain animals during exams or procedures

•   Provide client education

Working as a vet tech can be a good fit for introverts, as the role allows for a significant amount of one-on-one interaction with animals. However, it’s important to note that there will still be some degree of interaction with pet owners and colleagues.

Recommended: 15 Entry-Level Jobs for Antisocial People

How Much Is a Vet Tech’s Starting Salary?

How much money does a vet tech make? The answer to that question depends on many different factors, such as how much experience someone has.

The median annual wage for a vet tech is $36,850, but salaries can range from $28,370 to $48,100. Generally speaking, entry-level vet techs earn lower salaries at first, though they’ll likely earn at least the minimum wage.

The type of employer can also impact how much a vet tech earns. Junior colleges, colleges, universities, or professional schools, for instance, tend to pay more (around $46,780 per year) than social advocacy organizations (around $35,480 per year), according to the latest BLS data.


💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.

What Is the Average Salary for a Vet Tech?

An annual salary is one figure to consider. But how much can a vet tech make an hour? The median hourly pay rate for a vet tech nationwide is $17.72 per hour, though that rate — and the annual salary — can vary greatly by state.

For example, the annual median salary for vet techs in California is $47,880, which is much more competitive than in, say, West Virginia, where the median salary is $29,850.

Recommended: Salary vs. Hourly Pay: How Their Pros and Cons Compare

Vet Tech Benefits & Job Considerations

On top of being paid for their labor, many vet techs also receive a suite of benefits that enhances their overall compensation package. Full-time vet techs often qualify for medical and dental insurance, as well as 401(k) retirement plans and paid sick days or vacation time.

Some unique benefits that come with working in this industry can also include discounted pet care or continuing education reimbursements.

Pros and Cons of a Vet Tech Salary

Before pursuing a career as a vet tech, you may want to consider the advantages and disadvantages associated with this career path.

Pros

•   Work with animals all day

•   Usually qualifies for health insurance

•   Can make a difference in a pet’s life

•   Fast-growing career field (projected to grow 20 percent from 2021 to 2031)

Cons

•   Physically demanding work

•   Potentially dangerous

•   Can be emotionally draining

•   May have to work nights, holidays, or weekends

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

The median annual salary for vet techs is $36,850 per year. But as they progress in their career and gain specialties, these professionals can expect to earn more. Many people find working as a vet tech to be a fun and rewarding job, especially if they love animals. While it can be a hard job and may often be physically (and emotionally) demanding, it also provides opportunities to care for animals. And that can feel really good at the end of the day.

FAQ

What is the highest-paid vet tech?

One question potential vet techs likely have top of mind is how much a vet tech makes? According to the BLS, the median annual wage for veterinary technologists and technicians is $36,850. But it’s possible to earn more than $48,100 per year as a vet tech.

Is vet tech a stressful job?

Being a veterinary technician can be a demanding and sometimes stressful job. They often work in fast-paced environments, handle emotional situations with owners, and may encounter challenging cases or emergencies. However, the fulfillment of helping animals and the satisfaction of making a positive impact can also make it a rewarding career.

What state pays the best for vet techs?

How much someone stands to earn as a vet tech depends on a couple of different factors, including where they live. The District of Columbia pays vet techs the most, with median salaries reaching $50,130. Vet techs in Washington state ($49,940) and Alaska ($49,330) earn the next best salaries in the countries.

Photo credit: iStock/AnnaStills

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SORL0723005

Working as a paramedic is a rewarding career path for many. Though the job is often about more than just the money, it is possible for paramedics to earn a living. The median annual wage for paramedics is $46,770, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Keep reading for insights into a paramedic’s salary.

What Is a Paramedic?

A paramedic provides emergency medical services to individuals when they’re injured or sick. They may also be responsible for transporting people to the hospital, where they can receive further medical treatment. Because medical emergencies can happen any time of day, paramedics often work nights, holidays, and weekends. Many work 40 hours a week, if not more.

To become a paramedic, you usually must meet certain postsecondary educational requirements, which can vary by state.

How Much Is a Paramedic’s Starting Salary?

How much does a paramedic make a year? While the median annual salary for paramedics is $46,770, entry-level salaries may be lower. As with most jobs, a paramedic’s pay rate should become more competitive as they progress in their career.


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What Is the Average Salary for a Paramedic?

If you’re considering going into emergency medical services — and thinking about the long shifts that are often involved — you may be wondering how much a paramedic makes an hour.

According to BLS data, paramedics earn a median hourly rate of $17.76. But how much they actually earn depends on how many hours they work, how experienced they are, and where they live.

In fact, salaries can differ greatly by state. For example, the annual mean wage of a paramedic in California is $71,470. In Alabama, it’s $37,820.

It’s understandable that some paramedics earn more based on where they live, as the cost of living can vary a lot by state. At the very least, paramedics can expect to earn the minimum wage.

The following table breaks down the mean annual wage for paramedics by state.

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Paramedic Benefits & Job Considerations

Alongside earning a paycheck, paramedics may also receive valuable benefits such as:

•   Healthcare, dental, and vision insurance

•   Paid time off

•   Sick leave

•   Retirement plans

Pros and Cons of a Paramedic Salary

If someone is debating whether or not to pursue a career path as a paramedic, they’ll want to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of the job.

Pros

•   Potential career growth. It is anticipated paramedic jobs will grow by 7 percent by 2031, and there will be around 20,000 new openings for paramedics and EMTs every year over the next decade.

•   Fulfillment. Helping people for a living and saving lives can be very fulfilling ways to spend a career.

Cons

•   Physically demanding. Working as a paramedic can require a lot of lifting, bending, and kneeling, which can take a physical toll.

•   Dangerous. Working with the sick can expose you to diseases and viruses and potentially increase your risk of injuries.

•   Hectic work schedule. Not only are paramedics expected to work odd hours, their time on the job can be very busy and stressful, with life-or-death stakes. Shifts can also be long and last up to 24 hours. This may also not be a great job for introverts, as working as a paramedic requires interacting a lot with patients and teammates.

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The Takeaway

Pursuing a career as a paramedic requires a secondary education, a lot of hard work, and the ability to work odd hours. The role can be very stressful, as the stakes are quite high when delivering emergency medical services. However, with a median annual salary of $46,770, working as a paramedic can also be a reliable and rewarding way to earn a living. What’s more, you may find that as your career progresses, your earning potential will grow as well.

FAQ

What are the highest-paid paramedics?

Exactly how much money does a paramedic make? That depends on how much experience the paramedic has, among other factors. The highest 10 percent of top-earning paramedics earn more than $47,580.

Can a paramedic make six figures?

It is unlikely a paramedic will earn a salary of $100,000 or more, but is not impossible. Typically, the highest-paid paramedics work in general medical and surgical hospitals, and they earn a median annual salary of $47,000.

What is the lowest-paid paramedic?

On the low end, paramedics can earn less than $23,620. However, they can expect their salary to rise as they gain years of working experience.

Photo credit: iStock/sturti

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