The cost to go to college is on the rise again. Several Virginia schools including UVA and Virginia Tech have raised their tuition rates.

There are a few less expensive options for high school seniors. Community college is one option where tuition is about 1/3 of what it would be at a state university.

Blue Ridge Community College now has a guaranteed agreement with larger four-year colleges to allow students to transfer between the schools.

Another option is to go to a less expensive technical school. If your focus is electronics, construction or masonry, this may be a good option.

In offering another idea, BRCC President Dr. James Perkins says, "A lot of students are looking to combine part-time work with part-time education. It takes a little longer, but that's another option."

Perkins also suggests finding an employer that will pay for your college education while you're working.