Here’s a way to graduate from college with little to no student debt

For the most part, college costs continue to rise, along with the amount students borrow to cover the tab. However, there is an exception. When broken down by institution type, the differences are striking: For the 2025-26 school year, tuition and fees for four-year private colleges averaged $45,000, according to newly released data from the College Board. At four-year, in-state public colleges, it was $11,950, CNBC reports.