Comparison of University Costs vs. Working After High School

Disadvantages of University

University is costly. When tuition, fees, books, housing, and food are included, it costs students and families in the U.S. an average of $35,720 per student per year, according to data gathered by EducationData.org. With student loans and loss of income, the site estimates the total cost of a bachelor’s degree to exceed $400,000 in the end.

Disadvantages of Skipping University

If your child decides to work after high school, it gives them the opportunity to enter the job market and gain valuable experience. When they choose to work instead of going to university, they not only get a chance to earn money right away, but also get an opportunity to see what it’s like to work full-time to make a living. However, if your child has not done this before, they may not realize the costs associated with earning money.

Costs of Skipping or Delaying University

There are many paths that can be taken after high school. But if your child plans to take a year off before attending university, enroll part-time, or skip university altogether, they may be limiting their earnings for the rest of their lives.

Should Your Teen Start Working Instead of Attending University?

If your teen is considering delaying university or skipping it in favor of working, have a reasonable discussion with them about how these scenarios look. Why do they want to skip university and start working? Does it align with their career goals? What does it mean for their future? And if they want to delay attending university, what is their plan during that gap year?

Frequently Asked Questions

What jobs can you get with just a high school diploma? Should my child wait a year to attend university? How can you afford university?

Sources: EducationData.org, College Board, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities

Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/college-vs-work-after-high-school-comparing-the-costs-5204191