College Affordability

Rising college tuition costs present a significant challenge for students and families across all socio-economic backgrounds. For instance, the California State University system is scheduled to increase tuition by 6% annually for the next few years. High Tech High North County understands the financial pressures this creates and is committed to providing comprehensive support to make college more affordable. Our intentional, multi-tiered approach ensures that families of all backgrounds and academic abilities can identify best-fit schools while maximizing financial aid and scholarships.

We focus on four key areas of financial support:

1. Federal Financial Aid

HTHNC prioritizes helping families access federal aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). With over 95% of our families submitting FAFSA annually, approximately 35% of our students qualify for Pell Grants, unlocking thousands of dollars in essential funding. For those applying to private universities, we also guide families through the CSS Profile to secure additional institutional aid.

2. State Aid

California offers a variety of need-based grants, and HTHNC supports students in navigating these opportunities. This includes assistance with Cal Grants, Middle-Income Grants, Chafee Foster Care Grants, and other state-funded programs that significantly reduce the cost of attendance.

3. College/University Merit Scholarships

Our team helps students identify and apply for merit-based scholarships offered by individual colleges and universities. In addition, platforms like Raise.me enable students to earn micro-scholarships for their achievements, making higher education more attainable.

4. Independent Scholarships

HTHNC students also receive support in applying for private and independent scholarships. These include exclusive opportunities such as the HTH Founders Scholarship and awards from local organizations like the San Diego Foundation, which directly benefit San Diego residents.

By providing personalized guidance across these four levels of financial aid and scholarships, HTHNC ensures that students and families can make informed decisions about college financing. Our above-average college placement rates reflect the impact of this support. At HTHNC, we believe no student’s future should be limited by financial barriers, and we are committed to helping every family access the resources they need to invest in a brighter future.