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Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is the minimum amount of academic progress you need to make in college to keep receiving financial aid, including grants, work-study funds, and federal student loans.

Each school sets its own Satisfactory Academic Progress policy, but typically students need to maintain at least a C average and be on target to complete their program within 150% of the program’s length.

According to federal regulations, students who fail to make satisfactory academic progress towards their degree or certificate may lose their eligibility for federal student aid. However, students can file a SAP appeal if they believe that extenuating circumstances prevented the successful completion of SAP requirements.

Here’s more information on Satisfactory Academic Progress and what steps to take for a SAP appeal.

What Does SAP Stand For in College?

SAP stands for Satisfactory Academic Progress. Each college and university has its own SAP policy for financial aid purposes.

Your school’s SAP policy will likely outline:

•   The grade point average (GPA) you need to maintain

•   How many credits or hours you must complete by the end of each academic year

•   How an incomplete class, withdrawal, repeated class, change of major or transfer of credits from another school affects your Satisfactory Academic Progress

•   How often your progress is evaluated

•   What will happen if you fail to meet SAP requirements

•   Whether you are able to appeal your school’s decision on your SAP status and approved reasons for an appeal

•   How you can get back eligibility for federal student aid

💡 Quick Tip: Make no payments on SoFi private student loans for six months after graduation.

What Is Satisfactory Academic Progress?

The U.S. Department of Education requires that any student receiving federal financial aid meet and maintain academic progress standards as they continue through their educational program. This is known as Satisfactory Academic Progress, and a college’s student loan requirements must be at least as strict as the requirements stated by the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Colleges typically use an academic performance metric as well as a time-based metric to determine a student’s SAP status. To see your school’s standards for Satisfactory Academic Progress, check your school’s website or ask someone in the financial aid office.

Satisfactory Academic Progress GPA Requirement

Academic performance is based on a student’s GPA. Typically, if the academic program is two or more years, then the student must have a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA, or a grade of “C”, on a 4.0 scale by the end of the second academic year.

If the student’s degree or certificate program is a year or less in length, the school may evaluate academic performance after each academic term. If the program is longer than a year, the school must review academic performance at least once per year.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Credit Hour Requirement

You may need to enroll in and complete a minimum number of credit hours to receive financial aid for the year. Students must typically complete at least 67% of cumulative credits attempted in order to meet SAP requirements.

Dropping a class could potentially hurt your satisfactory academic progress if you are taking the minimum number of credit hours each year.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Completion Rate Requirement

Students must progress through their undergraduate program no longer than 150% of the published length of the educational program. For a four-year Bachelor’s degree program, 150% of the normal length is six years. For a two-year Associate’s degree program, 150% of the normal length is three years.

Recommended: The Ultimate Guide to Studying in College

What Is SAP Used For?

SAP is used to make sure that students are at least meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress standards in order to continue receiving federal, state, or institutional aid. Part of the reason for SAP requirements is to prevent students from using financial aid as a form of welfare and indefinitely delay responsibilities to repay student loan debt.

What Is an SAP Violation?

An SAP violation means your GPA doesn’t meet satisfactory academic performance standards or you are in danger of not completing your degree or certificate within a certain timeframe. Federal regulations state that any student receiving federal financial aid who fails to meet SAP standards may lose their eligibility to receive federal assistance.

Some colleges may give out a financial aid warning if you don’t make Satisfactory Academic Progress. Financial aid will still be given after a warning, but academic performance must be improved after one academic term. If progress isn’t made by the end of the term, federal financial aid may be suspended.

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SAP Appeal

If your financial aid has been revoked because you didn’t meet your school’s standards, you may be able to file a SAP appeal if your school allows it. Your SAP appeal may be accepted based on extenuating circumstances and whether it can be linked to poor academic performance. Some examples include:

•   Death of a relative

•   Severe personal injury or illness

•   Other extenuating circumstances determined by the school

SAP appeals generally include the following:

•   An explanation of what happened Why weren’t you able to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress? Explain what the problem was, when the problem occurred, how long the problem lasted and how this affected your ability to satisfy SAP criteria.

•   An explanation of what has changed Explain the corrective measures you have taken or will take to reach and maintain Satisfactory Academic Performance.

In addition to any forms required by your school, it may also be helpful to attach any relevant supporting documentation with your SAP appeal, such as a doctor’s note, hospital bill, or an obituary.

For information on how to file a SAP appeal, check your college’s website for directions.

Recommended: Am I Eligible for Work-Study?

SAP & Student Loans

If you’re successful in your request for a SAP appeal, your school may place you on financial aid probation. Although this allows you to continue receiving financial aid, probation that lasts longer than one academic term will require you to have an academic plan that addresses the faults that caused the financial aid suspension and to get you back on track. Academic progress is reviewed after each term while on probation.

On the other hand, if the SAP appeal was unsuccessful or if the school does not allow appeals, then financial aid is withdrawn until SAP requirements are met. Without financial aid, students are responsible for all costs associated with enrollment until they can raise their cumulative GPA to at least 2.0 and prove that they are on track to graduate within 150% of the normal timeframe.

While waiting for federal financial aid to be reinstated, students must pay costs out-of-pocket or rely on private student loans to help fund each academic term.


💡 Quick Tip: Need a private student loan to cover your school bills? Because approval for a private student loan is based on creditworthiness, a cosigner may help a student get loan approval and a lower rate.

The Takeaway

You must meet your college’s Satisfactory Academic Progress standards or risk losing federal financial aid in grants, student loans, or work-study funds. Contact your school’s financial aid office if you’re worried about your SAP standing, wish to complete an SAP appeal, or have any questions about your school’s SAP policy.

If you’re not eligible for federal student aid, there are other financing options out there to help pay for your education. Private student loans can cover up to 100% of the school-certified cost of attendance, which typically includes expenses like tuition, food, books and supplies, room and board, transportation and personal expenses.

While private loans can be useful in helping students fill any gaps in funding when paying for college, they aren’t required to offer the same benefits or borrower protections as federal student loans — things like deferment options or income-based 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.

Photo credit: iStock/skynesher

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.

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If you’re attending a public university that is not in your home state, establishing residency could significantly reduce the tuition bill. However, establishing residency for the sole purpose of qualifying for in-state tuition can be difficult. Generally, you need to be financially independent, live in the state for at least a year, and demonstrate that you intend to stay in order to be considered a resident of a new state.

Read on for a closer look at what it takes to establish residency where you go to college, whether or not it’s worth the effort, plus other ways to get a break on out-of-state tuition at a public university.

Establishing Residency

Each state has their own requirements for establishing residency. Requirements can also vary based on the university, which can add confusion to the process. Here are some of the general requirements that states and universities often require to determine residency:

•   Physical Presence Most states need you to be a resident for 12 consecutive months before you qualify for in-state tuition. The time to establish residency could be more or less, depending on the state.

•   Intent Students generally must prove that they are living in a state for more reasons than just attending school.

•   Financial Independence Typically, students must prove they are financially independent and no longer supported by their parents.

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

3 Tips for Establishing Residency

Establishing residency can be difficult, but with these tips and a little legwork, you may be able to become a resident of the state where you go to college and, possibly, slash your tuition bill.

1. Relocate as Soon as Possible

Since most states require you to be a resident for 12 consecutive months, it makes sense to relocate as soon as you can. If you are currently enrolled in a school, and are hoping to establish residency, this could mean spending your summers on-campus or at the very least in that state. You may also need to rent or buy property, as well as pay income taxes in your new state.

In addition, you’ll likely have to cut ties to your home state and do things like change your voter registration.

2. Boost Your Reasons for Moving

You usually need to prove the reason you moved to the state wasn’t solely for getting in-state tuition.

There are a few things you can do to help prove intent:

•   Get a new driver’s license

•   Register a vehicle

•   Get a state hunting and/or fishing license

•   Open a local bank account

•   Get a local library card

Having any of these things in your old state may make it more difficult to establish residency in your new state.

3. You May Have to Distance Yourself from Your Parents

One of the common requirements for establishing residency is financial independence. This can make establishing residency extremely difficult for students between the ages of 18 and 22 who are still being supported by their parents. Becoming an independent student before the age of 24 can be challenging, both logistically and emotionally.

You may already be an independent student if:

•   You are married

•   You are a veteran

•   You have dependents of your own

•   You are a legally emancipated minor

If you are a dependent student, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons of establishing residency on your own. It could mean delaying graduation and paying for college without any help from your family.

Alternatives to Establishing Residency

Establishing residency in a new state isn’t always the only option for getting in-state tuition. Some states participate in regional reciprocity agreements that let students attend colleges in bordering states at a discount.

Here are a few examples:

1. New England Regional Student Program

Run by the New England Board of Higher Education, this program allows New England residents to enroll in out-of-state New England public colleges and universities at a discount. To be eligible for the program, students must enroll in an approved major that is not offered by the public colleges and universities in their home state.

This program includes six states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

2. Midwest Student Exchange Program

Through the MSEP , public institutions agree to charge students no more than 150% of the in-state resident tuition rate for specific programs. Some private colleges and universities offer a 10% reduction on their tuition rates.

Participating states include: Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. You can use its database to find colleges and universities participating in the program.

3. Southern Regional Education Board’s Academic Common Market

This program is similar to the New England Regional Student Program. It provides tuition-savings to students in the 16 SREB states who are interested in pursuing degrees that are not offered by their in-state institutions. Students are able to enroll in out-of-state institutions that offer their degree program, but they pay the in-state tuition rate.

Participating states include: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. You can use its database to find participating institutions.

4. Western Undergraduate Exchange

The Western Undergraduate Exchange is open to students from any of the 16 states that participate in the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). The program allows students to enroll as nonresidents in more than 160 participating public colleges and universities and pay 150% (or less) of the enrolling school’s resident tuition.

Participating states and territories include: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, U.S. Pacific Territories and Freely Associated States, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

5. Exceptions for Students without Residency

Sometimes, residency rules are waived or are more lenient for students with special circumstances, including, veterans or the children of military personnel.

There is no single database of these exceptions, so if you think you may qualify for one, check with the colleges you are interested in to see whether there are any exceptions and how you can apply for them.

Recommended: What Is the Cost of Attendance in College?

Types of Student Loans to Help Students Pay for College

Even if you’re able to establish residency in a new state and qualify for in-state tuition, you still may need help paying for college. Scholarships, grants, and work-study are types of financial aid that are not required to be repaid. Beyond that, student loans are also an option. There are two major categories for student loans: federal and private.

Federal Student Loans for Undergraduate Students

Federal student loans are funded by the U.S. government and are subject to a set of standard rules and regulations. The interest rate on federal loans is fixed, which means it remains the same over the life of the loan. These interest rates are set annually by Congress.

There are two main types of federal student loans that may be available to undergraduate students — Direct Subsidized or Direct Unsubsidized Loans.

Direct Subsidized student loans are awarded based on financial need. The interest on these loans is paid for (or subsidized) by the U.S. Department of Education during the following periods:

•   While the student is enrolled in school at least half-time

•   During the loan’s grace period, which is usually the first six months after the borrower graduates or drops below half-time enrollment

•   During qualifying periods of deferment, which is a period of time when loan payments are paused
Borrowers with unsubsidized loans are responsible for all of the interest that accrues on the loan, even while they are attending school

To apply for a federal student loan, students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). Students interested in receiving financial aid must submit the FAFSA each year.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans are borrowed directly from private lenders like banks or other financial institutions. These loans may have fixed or variable interest rates. Unlike the federal student loans available to undergraduate students, which do not require a credit check, private lenders will generally review a borrower’s credit history, among other factors, when making their lending decisions.

In general, you’ll want to consider private student loans only after you’ve tapped any federal loan options available to you. This is because private lenders do not offer the same protections — such as income-driven repayment plans — to borrowers.


💡 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.

The Takeaway

Establishing residency can help a student qualify for in-state tuition, which could lead to a substantial savings in tuition costs. Unfortunately, establishing residency for the purpose of qualifying for in-state tuition, especially as a dependent student, can be challenging. Some states, however, have reciprocity agreements with other states, which allows you to benefit from lower tuition without establishing residency in a new state.

Whatever tuition you end up paying, there are resources that can help make the cost of going to college more manageable, including financial aid 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.

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.

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High-paying, high-demand occupations don’t always require a degree from a traditional four-year college. What if you could dramatically increase your income with a certificate or two-year degree from a trade school?

A trade school (also known as a vocational school) prepares students to enter a career that requires specialized training, such as being a medical assistant, plumber, dental hygienist, paralegal, or veterinary technician. Trade schools also offer a more affordable alternative to a four-year college or university.

Is trade school for you? Here’s a look at the pros and cons.

Is College Necessary for Your Career?

It seems like there’s more and more emphasis on attending a traditional four-year college or university right after high school, but is it absolutely necessary for your career?

It depends on the type of work you want to do. While traditional four-year schools provide students with the general skills necessary to become well-rounded learners, a trade school provides vocation-specific courses. Trade school students don’t need to take classes outside of their field of study but instead focus only on preparing for a specific occupation. Depending on the type of career you’re looking to get into, you may or may not need a four-year degree.


💡 Quick Tip: With benefits that help lower your monthly payment, there’s a lot to love about SoFi private student loans.

Understanding What a Trade School Is

A trade school, or vocational school, focuses its curriculum on specific skill-based vocations. But don’t let the name “trade school” fool you into thinking these schools are just for mechanics or electricians.

There are a wide variety of trade school programs specializing in careers in web design, entrepreneurship, software development, culinary arts, film production, nursing, paralegal studies, and many other areas of study.

Pros of a Trade School

Trade schools can have plenty of advantages. Here are a few to consider.

Specific Course of Study

A trade school can be a solid option for those who know what career they want. Trade schools often have a more focused curriculum. Students generally won’t have to spend time filling general education requirements. Classes are curated to the student’s chosen field and some programs offer hands-on training.

You won’t have to worry so much about choosing the right major. Trade schools cover specific areas of study, which can help you zero in on your career choice.

Less Time to Complete Than a Four Year Degree

Another pro of a trade school is it typically takes less time to complete your degree. Students can often pursue short-term certificates, one-year diplomas, and two-year associate’s degrees, although they may need to get additional training or an apprenticeship for certification or licensing depending on the chosen career field.

Recommended: What Are Apprenticeships?

Faculty Attention

Attending a trade school can also mean more one-on-one attention from faculty. Generally, trade schools boast smaller class sizes than four-year colleges and universities. This could mean more individualized attention from faculty.

If you study better with less distraction (and fewer people), a trade school may offer a conducive learning environment.

Cons of a Trade School

While trades schools have many advantages, they’re not for everyone. Here are some cons to consider.

Extremely Focused Curriculum

For students who know what they want out of a career, the focused course of study is a pro. But for students who aren’t sure what they want to study, the narrow focus may be limiting.

Non-Traditional College Atmosphere

Things are done a little bit differently at a trade school versus college. If you end up attending a trade school, you might not have that traditional university feel of game day Saturdays, Greek life, or pulling an all-nighter at the library.

You most likely won’t be living on campus in a dormitory setting, either. This could be seen as a disadvantage if you’re craving a more traditional college atmosphere where students wear school gear daily.

Narrow Focus May Limit Career Options in the Long-Term

With a trade school degree, students specialize in a specific area. This can be great for job placement after graduation, especially when there is a skilled-labor shortage. However, over time, trade schools may not prepare students for changes in their chosen industry. A broader degree may lead to more flexibility and versatility in the workforce.

Recommended: Community College vs College: Pros and Cons

How Much Trade School Costs

So, how much does trade school cost? It depends on what program you apply for and how long the program takes to complete. Generally speaking, however, you can enroll in a trade or vocational program for around $5,000 per year and graduate within two years. Keep in mind that there could be additional costs, such as licensing, outside of school to get started on a career path.

This is significantly less than attending a traditional college. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of going to a four-year college is $36,436 per student per year, including books, supplies, and daily living expenses.

Trade school can be a more affordable option, and many schools offer financial aid and scholarships that could help further lower the overall cost.

Recommended: How Much Does Culinary School Cost?

Can You Take out Loans for a Trade School?

There are plenty of student loan options for traditional colleges and universities, but what about taking out loans for a trade school? Some private lenders may provide private student loans for trade schools or associate’s degree programs, but many do not. Additionally, the lenders that do offer these types of loans will review your credit history and other factors before determining the type of financing you’ll qualify for.

Federal aid, including subsidized federal student loans, is also available for some trade schools, though you must meet certain requirements. For instance, you must be enrolled at least half-time in a program that leads to a degree or certificate. In addition, the school must be accredited. You can search for accredited schools through the Department of Education’s database .

To apply for federal student loans, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is the government’s official application for federal student loans, as well as federal grants and work-study.


💡 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.

The Takeaway

Trade school can be a smart choice for students who have a specific career path in mind. Generally, trade school is more affordable than a four-year college degree, and can take a shorter time to complete. Some schools may be eligible for federal financial aid. However, You may not qualify for federal student loans if your program is not accredited. And while some private lenders offer loans for trade school and associate’s degree programs, others (including SoFi) do not. You generally have more financing options when choosing a four-year college or university.

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. SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

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.

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.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

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Once you decide where you want to go to college and what you want to major in, you may still have another decision to make — whether to pursue a Bachelor or Arts (B.A.) or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Depending on the school and program, you may be limited to getting either a B.S. or a B.A. With some majors, however, you may have a choice. Whether you should go with a B.A. or B.S. will depend on both your educational and career goals.

Generally, a B.A. is more focused on the arts and humanities, while a B.S. is more centered around science and math. Read on for a closer look at a B.A. vs. a B.S., including how it can affect your coursework and future job options.

What’s the Difference Between a B.A. and a B.S.?

A Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science are both four-year undergraduate degree programs. Students completing either of these degrees will typically need to take similar general education requirements, such as courses in English, mathematics, natural science, writing, history, and social science.

A B.A. focuses on traditional liberal arts subjects like history, literature, art, philosophy, the social sciences, and other topics in humanities. It will provide a student with a more diverse course of study and may require fewer credits than a B.S. degree.

On the other hand, a B.S. program emphasizes science, engineering, technology, and math, and is more focused on one subject. When looking into a B.A. vs. B.S., you’ll want to decide what kind of job or graduate school program you want to pursue after graduation.

For instance, if you have a choice of earning either a B.A. or a B.S. in psychology and know you eventually want to go into one-on-one counseling with patients, you may want to choose a B.A. degree.

If, on the other hand, your plan is to earn a Ph.D. and pursue a career in research, then a B.S. may be a better choice. Keep in mind that some colleges offer students the opportunity to earn a B.A. or a B.S. in the same major, while other colleges don’t offer that choice.


💡 Quick Tip: SoFi offers low fixed- or variable-interest rates. So you can get a private student loan that fits your budget.

Which Degree Is Better?

When looking at a B.A. vs. a B.S., you may be wondering which one is better and more attractive to employers. In reality, it may not make much of a difference which one a student earns, as long as they have a bachelor’s degree in general.

Some employers may want graduates with a broader view of liberal arts topics, while others might prefer candidates who honed in on a particular subject. However, a candidate would probably not lose a job opportunity just because they had the “wrong” type of bachelor’s degree.

When prospective employers and graduate school admissions officers are looking at candidates, they generally care much more about factors like a student’s grades, the courses they took, the major they enrolled in, and which school they went to.

They may also care about whether or not a student completed internships and work-study programs related to their major.

Recommended: Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees

Finding a Good B.A. or B.S. Program

Instead of getting hung up on the difference between a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science, you may want to instead dive into the content and quality of the curriculum you could be studying for the next four years. You can see if the curriculum sounds interesting to you and if it would be applicable to your future career.

You may also want to evaluate all the schools you want to apply to or have gotten into before making a decision.

It’s a good idea to research a school’s reputation through a site like College Board® or Niche to determine how hard it is to get into, who the alumni are, what kinds of opportunities their graduates have pursued, and the strength of their programs.

Of course, it’s critical to investigate the location, enrollment size, and cost of attendance as well. You may find it helpful to create a shortlist of potential colleges/bachelor’s programs and then rank what’s most important to you.

For example, if you want to go to a competitive grad school, you may want to emphasize selectivity for your undergraduate program.

If you’re concerned about how you’re going to pay for college, you may also want to look into programs that are less expensive or that tend to offer scholarships to students. You can also research your options for private and federal student loans to pay for school.

If it’s feasible, it can also be helpful to visit and tour potential schools. This gives you a chance to get a feel for the school and student body, and get all your questions answered. For example, you may want to ask about job and career support, including job fairs and on-campus interview opportunities, so you know you will have support and be set up for success after you graduate.

Recommended: How to Pay for College

Why Get a Bachelor’s Degree?

B.A. and B.S. degrees can be very similar. What matters in most cases is simply getting a bachelor’s degree. This can open you up to a broader range of professional opportunities, allowing you to fulfill your career goals as well as earn more money.

You can choose to go directly into the workforce following graduation and have an advantage over candidates who only have a high school diploma (or less), or you could choose to go to graduate school to earn an advanced degree.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the employment rate for 25- to 34-year-olds with a bachelor’s or higher degree was 87% in 2022, compared to 61% for those who had not completed high school.

Those with bachelor’s degrees also tend to earn more. In 2021, the median earnings of those with a bachelor’s degree were 55% higher than the earnings of those who only completed high school.

There are a number of personal benefits as well. Many students find college to be very fulfilling because they gain valuable skills like teamwork and time management.

They also learn how to take on challenges, which can improve their self-esteem. Research suggests that people with college degrees are more likely to volunteer, donate to charitable organizations, vote, and contribute to their communities than those without college degrees. They also tend to report higher levels of happiness.


💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too. You can submit it as early as Oct. 1.

The Takeaway

A B.A. and a B.S. are both four-year undergraduate degrees that often require similar general education requirements, like math, English, and history. Broadly, B.A. degrees are more focused on liberal arts subjects, while B.S. degrees usually emphasize subjects like math and science.

Some schools may offer a B.A. and B.S. in the same subject, but with slightly different degree requirements, such as a B.A. or a B.S. in chemistry or computer science. The B.S. program typically has more required courses than the B.A. program.

Once you determine what degree you want to get and where you want to get it, you’ll likely also need to figure out how you’re going to pay for it. Fortunately, you have options, including financial aid (which may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and subsidized federal loans), as well as unsubsidized federal loans 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.

Photo credit: iStock/mangpor_2004

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.

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If you enjoy — and excel at — math and problem solving, you may want to consider majoring in computer science (or CS). As our world becomes increasingly dependent on technology, computer science majors are standing out from the crowd as competitive job applicants and higher-than-average earners.

Of course, getting a four-year degree in computer science involves taking on challenging coursework and investing a significant amount of money. For many students, however, it can be well worth the time, hard work, and expense. Here’s what you need to know about becoming a CS major.

What Is a Computer Science Major?

A computer science major is a course of study that focuses on computer hardware and software systems. Students learn how to develop software, design websites, and manage databases. Graduates with a computer science degree can pursue jobs in an array of fields, including software engineering, web development, information technology, and network systems administration.

Since our world is increasingly dependent on computer technology, computer scientists are in demand in a wide range of industries, from more traditional paths like corporate web development or information security to positions in fintech startups, healthcare, communications, and more.

Basically, if a job has to do with programming or maintaining computer software or networks, computer science can help prepare you for it. In some cases, you may need to pursue studies at the graduate level in order to unlock access to certain positions — but it all starts with a computer science major in college.


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Computer Science vs Computer Engineering

It’s worth noting that computer science isn’t the only degree path for those pursuing jobs in technology. Computer engineering is another course of study — but there are some important differences between the two.

Generally speaking, computer engineers get more education about the hardware side of computing: how to build a computer from scratch and a complete understanding of the architecture of a PC.

Computer science, on the other hand, focuses primarily on computer theory and software. Computer scientists work with complex software systems, machine learning-based algorithms, and more.

However, students with either major will graduate with a basic understanding of common coding languages and a general aptitude around computer software that will set them up for a job in technology.

Recommended: Are Coding Bootcamps Worth the Money?

What are Common Computer Science Degree Requirements?

A computer science degree can grant you access to a wide range of opportunities — but you do have to do the work to earn one first. Given its focus on programming and problem-solving, computer science is a math-heavy degree that requires students to grapple with some heady, abstract concepts. As college majors go, it’s definitely considered a challenging course of study.

For instance, computer science majors are typically required to take calculus courses, as well as other complicated types of math like linear algebra and statistics. Students will also likely need to master — or at least demonstrate proficiency in — several different programming languages (for example, Java, SQL, and Python®). They can also expect to face classes that cover complex and often theoretical topics, such as algorithm design, data visualization, neural networks, and basic cryptography.

Of course, the specifics of your degree requirement will depend on which institution you’re attending and also which specific computer science degree you’re after.

For instance, both bachelors of science (B.S.) degrees and bachelor of arts (B.A.) degrees in computer science are available at the undergraduate level. Generally speaking, a B.A. might allow for more electives and studies outside of the computer science department, whereas a B.S. might have more stringent requirements.

There are also masters- and doctorate-level computer science studies for those who’ve already completed their undergraduate degree — though you’ll very likely need to have chosen a major related to computer studies rather than, say, a course of study in the humanities.

Recommended: 20 of the Most Popular College Majors

How Much Can You Earn with a CS Degree?

While there are many exciting reasons to pursue a computer science major, given how much money it costs to go to college, many students want to know how much they can stand to earn once they have the degree. (This is also sometimes referred to as figuring out your ROEd or return on education — most degrees in America can cost a lot, but not all of them offer great earning prospects in return!)

And the good news is that a computer science major can put you in line for some of the most lucrative and in-demand job positions out there.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information research scientists earned a median of $131,490 per year in 2021.

Along with great pay, computer scientists can also look forward to great job availability; the BLS expects job prospects to grow 21% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.


💡 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.

The Takeaway

Computer science can be a great course of study for people who are interested in learning about computer programming, software development and maintenance, and really all things tech. As a computer scientist, you might code the next smash-hit video game or develop a new kind of AI… all while earning a nice salary and enjoying plenty of job opportunities.

But, of course, a computer science degree comes at a cost. According to U.S. News, the average cost of tuition and fees to attend a public college in 2022-23 was $10,423 for in-state students and $22,953 for out-of-state students. The tuition and fees for a private college was $39,723 per year. And, these numbers don’t include the cost of room and board and other expenses.

Fortunately, there are several options for parents and students who need help paying for a computer science degree. A great first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form opens up opportunities for students to receive grants, scholarships, work-study positions, and federal student 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.

Photo credit: iStock/DragonImages

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.

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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