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A performing arts degree aims to give students the knowledge, tools, and training to be working artists. Performing arts majors get to study all aspects of their craft and gain practical experience. A degree in performing arts can give grads a leg up on the competition through more polished skills and valuable connections in the business.

A wide variety of job options are available within the arts sector. Here, we’ll explain the main types of performing arts degrees, what you can do with a performing arts degree, ways to pay for a performing arts degree, and more.

What Are the Performing Arts?

In the performing arts, an artist uses their body, voice, or a musical instrument to express a story or feelings. Art forms include theater, film, vocal and instrumental music, opera, comedy, dance, puppetry, spoken word, and even magic and circus acts.

The performing arts also include supporting roles like directing, stagecraft, and design, which contribute to the overall production.

Recommended: The Ultimate Guide to Liberal Arts Colleges

What Are the 4 Main Types of Performing Arts?

Performing arts degrees are typically geared toward one or more of these areas.

1. Drama

Drama includes not just acting, but also speech, stage movement, voice work, theater history, and dramatic literature. Other specialties in the drama category include directing, stage management, playwriting, musical theater, and scene design. Students learn all the elements that go into a theatrical production.

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2. Dance

Dance aims to communicate emotion, story, and character through the use of movement. Jazz, ballet, tap, and hip-hop are just a few types of dance included in a performing arts program. Dance performances often have musical accompaniment, and the emotions stirred up by the music frequently come through in a dancers’ body language.

3. Music

Music majors are exposed to all facets of music, from playing an instrument to composing and musical directing. In some college programs, singing is also included. All types of music are covered, such as classical, jazz, opera, pop, and folk. Music can be vocal or entirely instrumental.

4. Singing

Singing is defined as the activity of making musical sounds with your voice. Singing is a form of creative expression, merging words and music, that requires talent and training. Singers can perform solo or as part of a group, as in a choir, band, or musical theater. As mentioned above, voice can be part of a music specialty in a performing arts degree program, or fall under the drama category for musical theater majors.

What Is a Performing Arts Degree?

A performing arts degree is a diploma earned through completing classwork in various disciplines like dance, music, and drama. Curriculums typically combine concentrated theoretical and historical study with performance practice.

Along with the designated coursework, most performing arts programs require students to gain real-world experience under the supervision of a trained professional. This might come in the form of a paid or unpaid internship, such as working as an assistant to a director or to a sound engineer in a recording studio.

Earning a degree in the performing arts shows you’re serious about your craft and dedicated to learning it. It means you’ve studied intensively and are prepared to pursue your talent in a professional way.

What Can You Do With a Degree in Performing Arts?

The world of performing arts offers a wide array of career choices, either in front of an audience or backstage. One of the most common choices is teaching or private coaching. You can do this through a professional school, community organization, after-school program for kids, or on your own.

Here is what actors, singers, musicians, and dancers can do with a performing arts degree:

•   Actors can find work as voice-over artists, stand-ins for principal actors on a film or television production, understudies, stand-up comedians, podcasters, or hosts of live or recorded programs. Actors can also demo products at corporate conferences, become tour guides, or serve as master of ceremonies for events or comedy shows.

   Other possible career paths include becoming a drama therapist, public speaking coach, talent agent, casting director, director, producer, theater or film critic, playwright, screenwriter, dramaturg, stage manager, or arts administrator.

•   Singers can work in musical theater, cabaret, or as a professional member of a chorus or choir. They may aspire to become lead singer of a band or a backup performer for other artists, in live performances or in a recording studio. Singers can also find jobs singing on cruise ships, in lounges and nightclubs, teaching voice, or as songwriters.

•   Musicians can pursue a number of careers, including musical director or conductor, composer, arranger, sound engineer, or music software programmer. There are even music ministers, who work for a religious organization on musical arrangements used in weekly services, weddings, and funerals.

   Jobs for musicians are similar to those open to singers. Options include working as a band or orchestra member, part of a jazz trio, or backup musician during recording sessions. Some musicians find success working behind the scenes, as a talent agent or a tour manager.

•   Dancers can find work as an artistic director for a dance company, a choreographer, or a dance teacher. With additional training, dancers can become movement or fitness specialists, such as physical therapists, personal trainers, or Pilates instructors.

With additional training, a performing artist can become a drama, music, or dance therapist. These professionals help people improve their mental health and well-being by incorporating techniques and exercises in their specialty. For example, a drama therapist might use storytelling or role-playing to help work through behavioral problems and emotional challenges. Other options are included in our list of the best jobs for extroverts.

Can I Get a Performing Arts Degree Online?

Yes, you can get a performing arts degree online, though the opportunities aren’t as plentiful. Because you need hands-on experience to train in the performing arts, learning online is not ideal or beneficial to mastering your craft. For instance, if you’re taking an acting class, learning how to move around a stage, project your voice properly in a theater, and connect with a live audience is much more difficult, if not impossible, to do online.

Some performing arts degree classes, however, are designed for virtual students. Introductory courses offering an overview of the theatrical arts, playwriting, costume design, or music theory can easily be taken online. Enrolling in some online courses can help students get prerequisites out of the way, but there will most likely be courses requiring you to appear in person for practical experience.

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Typical Performing Arts Degree Courses

The performing arts courses you’ll take will depend on the speciality you’ve chosen: drama, music, dance, or an interdisciplinary degree that combines elements of two or more specialties. Courses will differ depending on the school you attend and your degree level.

Usually, a performing arts degree curriculum will begin with general education classes. Academic lectures will deal with the theory and history of the performing arts. Practice-based classes focus on technique and craft. Finally, field-based, experiential learning is key.

While pursuing your degree in performing arts, you’ll most likely be able to take elective courses that fall outside your department, such as psychology or political science.

Common Performing Arts Degree Requirements

When it comes to academic requirements, some schools or courses will be more specific than others. Bachelor’s degrees typically take four years to complete if you’re a full-time student. An accelerated performing arts program, however, may require less time.

Most schools require students to complete a mix of classes specifically related to their chosen major. Other foundational courses, such as theory, stagecraft, performing arts history, and literature, are needed to fulfill the degree requirements.

What Is the Highest Degree in Performing Arts?

As with many other college majors, performing arts degrees range from an associate degree to a Ph.D. However, the most common performing arts degree earned in the field is a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). Although less common, some schools award a Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA).

There is a practical distinction between a BA and BFA in performing arts. A BA program requires more liberal arts coursework (such as English, math, and science). A BFA program primarily consists of courses in creative disciplines, with the ratio strongly favoring creative classes.

Performing arts master’s degrees can benefit individuals who want to advance their expertise or teach at the college level. Ph.D. programs in the performing arts are geared to those with plans to become researchers or tenure-track professors.

Recommended: Applying for Graduate School: Tips for Success

Performing Arts Degree Jobs

There are countless occupations within the realm of performing arts. Here are some of the more popular and in-demand jobs in the performing arts:

•   Producer: A producer acts as a behind-the-scenes executive decision maker. Projects include stage, film, and television productions. Duties of a producer include securing funding for the production, managing the budget, making business decisions, and collaborating with the director on hiring talent and crew.

•   Director: These professionals guide a theatrical production from start to finish. Directors are responsible for auditioning and casting actors, instructing the actors during rehearsals, assembling a production team, and supplying a vision for the project and a unique understanding of the text. They may also work with producers to ensure the project proceeds on budget and on schedule.

•   Writer: If you have a talent for writing and take writing courses while pursuing your performing arts degree, you can parlay your skills into playwriting, screenwriting, or reviewing for a media outlet. Writers may start out as a writer’s assistant on a television show and work their way up to becoming a showrunner, the person who oversees all aspects of a series and is often the head-writer. Or, if you focus on drama or music in school, a lyricist can be a satisfying career path.

•   Teacher: There’s always a need for educators in the performing arts. You can become a drama, dance, or music teacher in a school, conservatory, or community setting. If you achieve an MA or MFA, you can be a professor at the undergraduate or graduate level, create your own class, or work as a private coach. Sometimes, experience honed in the field as a working performing artist is more than enough to teach what you know to others, without requiring anything more than a bachelor’s degree.

•   Musician: The world of music offers myriad jobs. As mentioned earlier, if you sing or play an instrument, you can perform in a band, as part of an orchestra, or as a session musician, backing up another artist in a recording studio. Other sought-after jobs in the music industry include making music for video games, guitar technician, piano tuner, or staff musician who performs on cruise ships, at theme parks, and for music production houses that create music for specific clients.

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Ways to Pay for a Performing Arts Degree

Paying for a performing arts degree isn’t any different from paying for other college degrees. You can use both federal and private student loans to finance your performing arts education, along with scholarships and grants.

The first place to start is by applying for federal student aid. With the ever increasing cost of college tuition, even middle class students are encouraged to apply for financial aid. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid form (FAFSA®) will help you line up federal scholarships, grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs.

You can find additional grant and scholarship listings at sites such as collegegrant.net, collegescholarships.com, or scholarships.com. SoFi also offers a helpful scholarship search tool.

If your federal student aid offer doesn’t cover your cost of attendance, private student loans are also available. Unlike federal student loans whose terms and interest rates are set by the government, private loan terms and interest rates are set by the lender, based on the borrower’s credit history. Private student loan interest rates are usually higher than the rates on federal student loans, and private student loans don’t offer the same borrower protections and benefits as federal student loans.

Recommended: How to Complete the FAFSA Step by Step

The Takeaway

A degree in performing arts provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to embark on an artistic career. The four main areas of study are drama, dance, music, and singing, though students may combine courses from different specialties.

There are a wide variety of occupations in the artistic arena that can keep you employed while you live a creatively expressive life. Some popular performing arts careers include producer, director, screenwriter, teacher, arts administrator, and stage manager. And of course, you may also aspire to become an actor, musician, dancer, or other performer.

To pay for your performing arts education, you can rely on cash savings, grants, scholarships, and federal and private 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.

FAQ

What are the advantages of earning a degree in the performing arts?

A degree in performing arts can help set you apart in experience and skill level from other artists who don’t have a performing arts degree. Immersing yourself in your chosen major gives you the tools and confidence you’ll need later on. You’ll also be studying under faculty members who are not only valuable mentors, but also professional connections.

What skills do I need to get a job in the performing arts?

Besides having talent and training, certain attributes increase the likelihood you’ll be successful in your career. Employers in the performing arts sector look for people who are flexible, collaborative, cooperative, disciplined, and resilient. Other important skills include the ability to take direction, being a quick learner, and the ability to manage your time efficiently.

Is a degree in performing arts worth it?

It definitely can be. Extensive study helps lay the foundation for your training early on and lets you build on your natural abilities with practical experience. Working toward a performing arts degree allows you the opportunities to flex your muscles by performing in college productions and working internships outside of school.

These are achievements you can put on your resume that show you’ve already gotten hands-on experience. Graduating with a performing arts degree shows you’re serious about your intentions and have done the intense work to perfect your craft.

Photo credit: iStock/blanaru

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and Conditions Apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 04/24/2024 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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.

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.

SOISL-Q424-050

Paying for college can be daunting, but there’s good news: Plenty of “free money” is available to help cover the costs. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants don’t require repayment, making them a valuable resource for students looking to reduce debt.

By exploring these options, students can significantly offset tuition expenses and make their college dreams more affordable.

Free Money for College‽

Students can find free money for college through scholarships and grants. Both are gifts that do not need to be repaid, and they reduce the need to take out student loans.

According to the Education Data Initiative, average federal student loan debt based on degree is as follows:

•   $19,270 for associate degree holders

•   $26,190 for bachelor’s degree holders

•   $106,850 for graduate degree holders

To bring these numbers down, students can apply for grants and scholarships, federal work-study, or work a part-time job to help pay for some of their college expenses.

What Are Scholarships?

Scholarships are financial awards designed to help students pay for their education. Unlike loans, scholarships don’t require repayment, making them a valuable form of “free money.” They are typically awarded based on specific criteria and can come from schools, private organizations, nonprofits, or government programs.

Merit-based scholarships reward students for their achievements in academics, athletics, leadership, or other areas of excellence. These awards often require maintaining certain standards, such as a high GPA.

Need-based scholarships, on the other hand, focus on financial need, aiming to assist students from low-income families in accessing higher education opportunities without excessive debt.

Recommended: What Types of Scholarships Are There?

What Are Grants?

Grants are a form of financial aid provided to students to help cover educational expenses, such as tuition, fees, and books. Like scholarships, grants do not need to be repaid, making them a valuable resource for funding education.

Grants are often awarded based on financial need, with eligibility determined through applications like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). Common sources of grants include federal and state governments, colleges, and private organizations.

Examples include the Federal Pell Grant, which supports low-income students, and specialized grants for specific fields of study or demographics. Grants make higher education more accessible and affordable.

How Much Does Free Money for College Help?

Scholarships and grants can make a big difference in lightening the college debt load. Below is a chart on how families pay for college.

Finding Scholarships and Grants

With federal and institutional grants, you are automatically considered for need-based financial aid when you submit the FAFSA.

Finding private scholarships can take more time and effort, though. Ideally, students should start looking for scholarships the summer after their junior year of high school.

Researching Scholarships

Here are ideas to look for scholarships:

•   Consider using a database like Scholarships.com that lets you create a profile with all of your information, which could help you match with scholarships and grants.

•   Use the Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop site to sort more than 9,500 opportunities for financial aid.

•   Use SoFi’s Scholarship Search Tool.

•   Ask college financial aid offices about their scholarship availability and process.

•   See if your employer or your parents’ employers offer college aid.

•   Look for scholarships offered by foundations, religious or civic groups, local businesses, and organizations related to your field of interest.

You don’t have to be a scholar or standout athlete to get a scholarship. Students may have success finding non-academic scholarships for their heritage, interests, or area of study.

Finding those private scholarships and completing the essay and application will take time, however.

Recommended: Search Grants and Scholarships by State

Researching Grants

Researching grants for college requires proactive effort and the use of multiple resources. Follow these steps to find the right opportunities:

•   Complete the FAFSA, as this determines eligibility for federal and state grants, such as the Pell Grant.

•   Check with your college’s financial aid office for institutional grants.

•   Explore websites like Grants.gov or Fastweb for a comprehensive list of grants.

•   Look for grants offered by private organizations, nonprofits, and community groups

Grants are typically awarded in a federal financial aid package. In addition to federal grants, schools may award institutional grants.

Other Options to Help Pay for College

There are many ways to pay for school, and students and their parents may use a combination of methods to cover the cost of attendance, an estimate of the total cost of attending a particular college for one year.

Student Loans

Roughly 70% of college students leave school with debt due to the expense of tuition and fees, room and board, books, and living expenses.

When it comes to private vs. federal student loans, it’s best to use federal student loans first, as they come with borrower protections and benefits that private loans do not offer.

One type of federal student loan is a Direct Subsidized Loan. The government pays the interest on those loans as long as the student is enrolled at least half-time. The interest is also covered for six months after the student leaves school, graduates, or enters a period of deferment.

With federal student loans, borrowers may qualify for an income-based repayment plan, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, or federal deferment or forbearance down the road.

Not all students or parents will be able to rely solely on federal aid to cover all their bases, though, and that’s where a private student loan could come in handy.

Private student loans don’t come with all the borrower protections and programs that federal student loans do, but they can be used to cover any remaining school-certified costs, here or abroad, from transportation to books and lodging.

Federal Work-Study

The federal work-study program allows students to earn money that can be used to pay day-to-day expenses. Students who demonstrate financial need may be eligible for jobs on or off campus.

Not all colleges participate in the program, so it’s best to speak with your specific college if federal work-study is something you’re interested in.

Does a Student Ever Have to Repay a Grant?

You might have to repay all or part of a federal grant if:

•   You withdrew early from the program for which the grant was given to you.

•   Your enrollment status changed. If, for example, you switch from full-time to part-time enrollment, your grant amount will be reduced.

•   You received outside scholarships or grants that reduced your need for federal student aid.

•   You received a TEACH Grant, but you did not meet the service obligation. In that case, the grant could be converted to Direct Unsubsidized Loans.

If you don’t meet the expectations of a scholarship, such as GPA or credit-hour minimums, you could lose the gift and have to pay out of pocket.

When it comes to sports, the head coach decides whether an athletic scholarship will be renewed. Injury or poor academics can sack an athletic scholarship.

Recommended: FAFSA Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

The Takeaway

Students can get free money for college through grants and scholarships. Grants and scholarships are worth seeking out because they reduce the need to take out student loans. But if you still need to borrow, you can rely on federal student loans, followed by private 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.

FAQ

What is “free money” for college, and why is it important?

“Free money” for college refers to financial aid like scholarships and grants that do not need to be repaid. It’s important because it helps reduce the cost of education, minimizing the reliance on student loans and lowering the financial burden on students and families.

How can students find scholarships and grants?

Students can find scholarships and grants by completing the FAFSA, consulting their school’s financial aid office, using online scholarship search tools, and exploring opportunities from private organizations, nonprofits, and government programs tailored to their qualifications or financial needs.

What are the key differences between scholarships and grants?

Scholarships are often merit-based, awarded for achievements in academics, athletics, or other areas, while grants are primarily need-based, focusing on financial circumstances. Both provide non-repayable funds to help cover educational expenses.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and Conditions Apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 04/24/2024 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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.

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.

SOISL-Q424-059

Pursuing a college degree can put you on a path to the career of your dreams. But the price tag of tuition, housing, and textbooks can be pretty steep. And if you’re a parent or caregiver, you’re faced with an added obstacle: “How can I afford child care while I’m in school?”

Fortunately, there are a bevy of options out there for adult students with children. On-campus daycares, grants, scholarships, and federal and private student loans can all help alleviate the cost of child care. You don’t have to let the challenge of going to college with kids stop you from reaching your goals.

Keep reading to learn more on how to pay for child care while in school, including childcare assistance programs, free daycare for low-income families, and more.

Paying for Daycare as a Student

One of the biggest financial struggles working parents face is paying for daycare. In 2022, American households spent close to $11,000 annually for child care costs, according to Child Care Aware of America. If you’re a parent returning to college, you may have the extra burden of tuition, housing, and textbooks. You may also have to scale back your job hours to accommodate your schedule.

But child care is essential for adult students. Someone has to look after your little one while you attend class. Even if your school is 100% online, you’ll need uninterrupted time to study, write papers, and answer discussion questions.

Let’s take a look at some avenues of financial support, so you can focus on getting your degree while caring for your family.

Tips to Help Pay for Child Care as a Student

The decision to return to college may not have been in the budget when you financially planned for a family. And with the cost of child care being more than some tuition, the prospect of going back to college with kids can be daunting. Take solace in the fact that you are not alone.

Fortunately, there are resources to help you. Many higher education institutions provide child care grants and subsidies. You can also turn to federal student aid, private student loans, and scholarships to help get you that degree and daycare for your children.

Financial Aid

Student financial aid provides funding used to cover the costs of higher education. It can come in the form of student loans, either from federal or state governments. Scholarships and grants are another fantastic way to help ease your financial anxiety.

To apply for federal financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and federal student loans, students will need to fill out the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This form will determine how much financial aid you qualify for. It’s also prudent to contact your school financial aid office directly. Talk to them about how they can help you factor child care into the cost of your attendance.

Private Scholarships

Because a private college scholarship doesn’t generally need to be repaid, it can be thought of as free money awarded to pay for school. They are typically based on financial need or merit — grades, test scores, or talent — and (good news!) there are also scholarships available specifically for students with dependent children.

You can find more information on scholarships and how to use them toward child care from government resources, a college financial aid office, or a high school counselor. Be sure and pay attention to scholarship submission deadlines so you don’t miss out on funds.

Recommended: What a Merit Scholarship Is & How to Get One

Federal Student Loans and Grants

Many students seek financial aid for college through federal student loans. Federal loans typically have low, fixed interest rates and don’t require a cosigner or a credit check. You don’t have to worry about repayment until after college. These student loan funds are used for tuition, housing, computers, and textbooks, but it’s also possible to put them toward child care. Reach out to your school to ask if they can factor in child care costs to the price of attendance.

A Federal Pell Grant is awarded by the government to students from low-income households, based solely on financial need. While a Pell Grant won’t guarantee you free child care, the expense of having a child reflects directly on your income, which can consequently raise the amount of funds you may be eligible to receive. That money could help pay for daycare. Like scholarships, grants also do not usually have to be repaid.

Private Student Loans

When scholarships, grants, and federal financial aid aren’t enough, you can turn to private student loans to help cover the cost of daycare. These loans are issued by online lenders, banks, and credit unions. The lender will check your financial history and credit score to calculate the amount you qualify for. If you have limited job experience or your credit score isn’t the greatest, a cosigner can pledge responsibility for your loan.

With private student loans, you can typically borrow up to the cost of tuition and other qualified educational expenses. Unlike federal loans with strict deadlines, you can apply for a private student loan at any time during the year.

Keep in mind that private loans tend to have higher interest rates, and some may require payment while you’re still attending college. Additionally, private student loans aren’t required to offer the same benefits or protections that are available to federal student loan borrowers. For this reason, they are generally borrowed only after all other financing options have been thoroughly considered.

Recommended: Private Student Loans vs Federal Student Loans

Seek Out Lower Cost Daycare

Once you’ve secured funding, the next step is to find affordable daycare so you can stretch your monetary aid to the fullest.

In 2018, Congress tripled what’s called CCAMPIS — Child Care Access Means Parents in School. CCAMPIS awards funds to educational institutions to help make child care affordable for low-income students. Contact your school to see if they’ve received such funds and have child care services available.

You can also investigate child care assistance programs, such as Child Care Aware of America. The organization provides tools to search for lower-cost child care facilities near your school.

Tax Credits

Several tax credits can help offset the cost of child care while in college, including:

1.    Child and Dependent Care Credit: Offers up to 35% of qualifying childcare expenses for children under 13, based on your income.

2.    Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Provides financial support for low-to-moderate-income families with qualifying children.

3.    American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC): While focused on education expenses, it indirectly helps if child care allows you to pursue studies.

4.    Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC): Similar to the AOTC, it can free up funds for child care by offsetting tuition costs.

Consult a tax professional for specific eligibility.

Schools with Child Care Resources

Many schools, including both community colleges and universities, have low-cost child care facilities on campus for undergrad and graduate students. These supportive centers not only offer developmental programs for your child, but are also tailored to the needs of student parents, with extended hours in the evening and weekends. Spots can go fast, though, so be sure and inquire about program availability as soon as possible.

Some colleges offer child care subsidies to adult students in the form of daycare grants, a taxable subsidy. Whether you have a newborn or a high schooler, you may meet the criteria for these funds, and many have no requirement for the money to be used solely for daycare. Daycare grants are purely to support student parents to achieve their dreams of higher education.

Remember, it takes a village to raise a child, and a college is a community. Most institutions have online student-parent support groups, where you can search for daycare services, nanny shares, and babysitting services. Valuable information can often be found on the school’s website or through student services.

The Takeaway

Being in college as a parent may seem overwhelming, especially when it comes to how to pay for child care as a student. But between federal and private student loans, grants, and scholarships, you don’t have to wait until your baby’s all grown up to get that college degree. There are loads of resources to support you, from parent groups on campus to federal financial aid packages, all of which strive to make your college journey as a parent easier.

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.

FAQ

Can I use student loans to pay for child care?

Yes, student loans can be used to pay for child care as part of your cost of attendance. Many schools include child care expenses in their financial aid calculations, allowing you to allocate loan funds for this purpose. Check with your school’s financial aid office to confirm eligibility and limits.

Does FAFSA cover child care?

FAFSA does not directly cover child care, but it helps determine your eligibility for financial aid, which can include funds for child care expenses. Many schools allow you to include child care costs in your cost of attendance, potentially increasing your financial aid package to help cover these expenses.

Can I get a student loan to take care of my child?

Yes, you can use student loans to cover child care expenses as part of your cost of attendance. Many schools factor in dependent care costs when calculating financial aid, which may increase the amount you can borrow. Check with your school’s financial aid office for specific eligibility and limits.

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