AAA Student Lending is proud to offer a resource for college planning
and education loans. As tuition continues to rise, many universities and
private foundations are cutting back on scholarships to needy students, leading
students and parents to borrow more. By offering members a trusted source for
education loans, AAA provides peace of mind to parents and students seeking the
best possible education.
According to the National Education Association (NEA), individuals with a
bachelor's degree earn an average of 50 percent more than those with just a
high school diploma. However, four years of tuition can range from $50,000
at a state institution to well over $100,000 for a private institution. That is
why AAA is proud to provide members financing options to meet their education
goals.
Investing in your child's future
It's one of the best investments your family can make, especially when it comes
to a college education. The Census Bureau reports that the lifetime earning
power of a college graduate is nearly $1 million more than that of someone with
only a high school diploma.
What can your child earn?
Average Annual Earnings By Education Level
|
| Less than high school |
$21,506 |
| High School/GED
|
$27,774 |
| Associate's Degree
|
$34,860 |
| Bachelor's Degree
|
$50,511 |
| Master's Degree |
$60,347 |
| Doctoral Degree
|
$84,294 |
| Professional Degree |
$99,631 |
| Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Current Population Surveys,
March 2000, 2001, and 2002. |

Employment rates are also linked to education
The unemployment rate for college graduates is typically 70 to 80
percent lower than those with just a high school diploma, according to the
Bureau of Labor Studies. They also report that a college degree will be
required for six of the ten fastest growing occupations over the next eight
years. More proof that a college education pays off!
Student loans are the most popular tool used to finance an education
This is true of most of today's college students. According to the 2002
National Student Loan Survey, over 65% of students attending 4-year
institutions rely upon student loans to help them pay for college. One look at
the chart below will confirm that the college graduate's higher income more
than justifies the cost of student loans.
| Education Pays Off |
|
Average student loan amount for college graduates
|
Average Yearly Income
|
|
2-year community college |
$8,700 |
$34,860 |
| 4-year public college |
$17,100
|
$50,511 |
| 4-year private college
|
$21,200 |
|
Source: 2002 National Student Loan Survey and U.S. Census Bureau
|
|