Having a juris doctor degree is one of the best educational investments you can make in your future. This does not, however, negate the fact that it is one of the most expensive degrees to obtain. Every student who is trying to pay for a JD degree is looking for a way to make those payments a little easier. Below a few of the ways that people have successfully paid for their juris doctorate degrees.
Work-Study Programs
Many juris doctorate programs will have work-study programs attached to them. This can serve as a double advantage for the student. Not only does the overall cost of the juris doctor program go down, but a student also gains valuable experience that can be placed on a resume. Many students will actually base their choice of attendance on the type of work study programs that are available. This is one of the best ways to meet leaders in the legal industry.
Scholarships
Believe it or not, there are many types of scholarships that are available for juris doctor programs. Performing exceptionally well in previous educational institutions can lead to a scholarship. There are also other types of merit- and need-based scholarships that are available depending on the program.
State-sponsored programs are more likely to have scholarships available with them. Although these programs may not be as prestigious, they can definitely be less expensive, especially for residents of that state.
Working While in School
Working while in school is not the same as a work-study program. Simply having a job that is not connected to the school is another way that many people choose to pay for their education. Because many juris doctor programs are flexible in their scheduling, they leave time for students to have a day job. For those who cannot obtain a scholarship or a work-study program, this may be the best option that is available.
Taking Out a Bank Loan
Many banks are actually quite happy to lend you the money for a juris doctor degree. Because the degree itself is so prestigious, there is very little risk involved on their part. Juris doctorate degrees most definitely pay for themselves in the marketplace, and the bank will be quite sure that it will receive interest on its money because of the timeframe involved in completing the program.
It's important to understand that there are many payment options available to help you get your JD degree. Do not let the extraordinary amount of money that juris doctor programs require keep you from earning this last notch in your education.
