Financial options for the college-bound

February 7, 1986

Bard College is by no means the only school looking at alternative student aid. According to sources at the College Board and the NAICU, here are some others: Academic scholarships: A recent survey shows that 75 percent of American private colleges and 90 percent of public colleges offer scholarships based on academic merit. Students taking advantage of these ``no need'' scholarships amount to 3 percent of the total enrollment at these schools.

Low-interest loans: Some colleges offer special low-interest loan programs for families that don't qualify for need-based federal loan programs. Pennsylvania's Dickinson College offers loans of $2,500 a year at below market rates with a requirement that only the interest on the outstanding principal be paid while the student is in college. It also offers loans of up to $7,000 a year, with payment extended up to 13 years. Some colleges, either individually or in consortia, issue bonds to create loan capital.

Middle-income assistance: Those families making less than $30,000 a year automatically qualify for student loans from Uncle Sam. Beyond that, a scattering of colleges offer special scholarships and loans designed especially for middle-income families.

Family plans: At a variety of schools, students can get rebates or lower tuitions when more than one family member -- of any generation -- attends the college.

Tuition remission for academic achievement: While not yet a widespread practice, some campuses offer students with good academic records a tuition reduction.

Off-hour rates: An increasing number of colleges are lowering the charges for courses taken during the evening or weekends.

Aggressive student employment programs: With the increase in student-loan obligations, many more colleges are exploring special ``learn and earn'' programs that help students find summer and part-time career-related positions. This would include jobs both on and off campus.

Help for the unemployed: Students with one or more unemployed parents are eligible for aid in some colleges.

Cooperative education: Over 900 colleges combine formal studies with off-campus career-related jobs that help defray college costs. Some programs allow students to alternate semesters of work and study -- or work part time while studying.

Tuition reductions for minority students: Minority students, especially those majoring in science and engineering, are eligible for substantial amounts of aid at most colleges and universities.

An excellent resource is ``Don't Miss Out,'' by Anna and Robert Leider, which details 40 innovative student-aid programs and the schools using them. Contact Octaneron Press, PO Box 3437, Alexandria, Va., 22302.