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SALT LAKE CITY — Money is often the No. 1 barrier to teenagers going to college. And while some families have a plan to pay for college, Utah students are last in the nation to apply for federal student aid.
"Unfortunately, Utah students leave millions of dollars on the table each year," according to Melanie Heath of the Utah System of Higher Education.
It's often money that doesn't have to be paid back.
Families like the Campbells are banking on scholarships.
"We hope that through scholarships that he'll be paying," said Kimberly Campbell, whose son Brayden Campbell attends Bingham High School.
Brayden hopes he'll get a little financial help from his parents.
A statewide campaign is underway to help teens understand that what they're missing could save them — and more likely, their parents — thousands of dollars.
Events like You Can Pay for College night are taking place all over Utah to broaden the options. These aim to demystify the financial aid process for students and parents, Heath said.
Heath's advice: Fill out the application for federal aid. Then, students should take concurrent enrollment courses in high school.
Heath explained, "It would be free to take those classes in high school and they wouldn't have to pay for those credit hours in college."
For example, a $40 fee for a high school class can save up to $500 on campus. Utah students saved about $27 million last year by getting college credits in high school.
More information on Paying for College nights are listed on the System of Higher Education's website or through talking with a high school counselor.
