GoFundMe For College

GoFundMe for College
A Guidebook to Help Students Pay for Tuition and Other College

Expenses
GoFundMe: College Tuition and Expenses
GoFundMe today released a new guidebook highlighting the growing trend of college
students who are increasingly turning to GoFundMe to pay for tuition and other costs
associated with college.
This guidebook includes three sections:

1. National Data:
New national data about the growing trend of students using social
fundraising to pay for school.
2. Step-by-Step Instructions and Tips to Launch a Successful GoFundMe:
Step-by-step instructions and important tips for students about how to
create a successful GoFundMe to raise money for college.
3. State-Specific Data:
State-specific data about the cost of college and information about students
in your state who have turned to GoFundMe to help reduce their college
costs.
GoFundMe today also released a new college fundraising hub, which will serve as a
resource for students and their communities. We want to make it as easy as possible for
GoFundMe donors to find students, as well as giving students and their families the tips
and tools they need for a successful campaign. Students and donors can visit the college
fundraising hub here: https://www.gofundme.com/college-tuition-fundraising
With GoFundme, college students can reduce their tuition bill by hundreds, and in some
cases, thousands of dollars per year. W
ith the average college graduate in 2016 facing
$37,172 in student loan debt, the need for help with education costs in this country is
clear. Thats why more and more students are realizing that, with j ust few clicks, they are
able to start a GoFundMe to help reduce the burden.
GoFundMe has made this new new data available to all students, parents, faculty and staff
at college campuses across the country to show how easy it is to reduce a students bills.
GoFundMe will continue to share tips and best practices directly with students to
empower them to start campaigns. We want to make it as easy as possible to quickly raise
funds to pay for tuition and other college costs.
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Chapter 1: National Data
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Over the past several years, students, teachers, and parents are increasingly turning to
GoFundMe to raise money for education expenses, including tuition. In fact, in the last
three years, over 130,000 GoFundMes have raised $60 million from over 850,000
donations for college tuition and related campaigns.
GoFundMe Data: 2014-Present

GoFundMe Campaigns For College Expenses: 130,000
Total Money Raised: $60 Million
Total Donations: Over 850,000
Each and every day, we see students create campaigns to buy books and computers, pay
for their room and board, and chip away at their tuition bills.
As college costs continue to rise and students continue to accumulate more and more
debt, its important to remember that there are folks out there who want to help. Not only
can friends, family members, and people in your social networks donate to your campaign,
there are thousands of alumni and other organizations looking to lend a helping hand. All
you have to do is jump online and create a GoFundMe.
According to the College Board: In 2016-17, average published tuition and fee prices for
in-state students at public four-year institutions range from $5,060 in Wyoming and
$6,360 in Florida to $15,450 in Vermont and $15,650 in New Hampshire. And that
number increases significantly if youre an out-of-state student. This chart below from the
College Board lays out the yearly costs for each state for in-state and out-of-state
students. Starting a GoFundMe can reduce this cost by hundreds, and even thousands of
dollars.
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Cost Of Public Four Year In State Tuition
Alabama $10,040 Massachusetts $12,276 Tennessee $9,518
Alaska $7,130 Michigan $12,464 Texas $9,566
Arizona $10,957 Minnesota $10,952 Utah $6,581
Arkansas $8,247 Mississippi $7,409 Vermont $15,446
California $9,346 Missouri $8,632 Virginia $12,323
Colorado $10,257 Montana $6,409 Washington $9,265
Connecticut $11,734 Nebraska $7,883 West Virginia $7,488
Delaware $11,935 Nevada $6,907 Wisconsin $8,928
DC $7,844 New Hampshire $15,650 Wyoming $5,055
Florida $6,356 New Jersey $13,560
Georgia $8,453 New Mexico $6,618
Hawaii $10,671 New York $7,707
Idaho $7,010 North Carolina $7,203
Illinois $13,278 North Dakota $7,884
Indiana $9,201 Ohio $10,266
Iowa $8,271 Oklahoma $8,026
Kansas $8,917 Oregon $9,693
Kentucky $9,953 Pennsylvania $13,884
Louisiana $8,900 Rhode Island $11,407
Maine $9,687 South Carolina $12,192
Maryland $9,366 South Dakota $8,138
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Top Ten States For Students Raising Funds on GoFundMe
Total Number of
State Campaigns Total Amount Raised
California 15,338 $8.3M

Texas 10,152 $4.6M
New York 6,844 $4.2M
Florida 8,468 $3.4M
Georgia 6,887 $2.9M
Illinois 5,266 $2.6M
Massachusetts 2,602 $2M
North Carolina 5,162 $1.9M
Pennsylvania 4,314 $1.9M
Ohio 4,225 $1.6M
Notable Campaigns
Campaign Amount Raised
E-Jayy!.. "From COMPTON 2 HARVARD!" $21,108
Let's get Ashley to College! $12,540
Keegan's Stonehill College Funding $11,340
Khalil Bridges' College Fund $48,925
Send Vicente to College $9,315
Help Gaza Student Attend CUNY $8,995
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Chapter 2: Step-by-Step Instructions to
Create a GoFundMe
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How to Create a GoFundMe for College
Now that youve read how much you can raise, youre ready to create a campaign. Below
you will find step-by-step instructions to create a GoFundMe as well as some tips and
tricks to successfully raise money.
Step 1: Visit GoFundMe.com/college-tuition-fundraising And Click Start

A Campaign
Step 2: Set Your Goal
Step 3. Write A Catchy Title
Step 4: Set Your Category And Enter Your Zip Code
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Step 5. Add a Photo Or Video To Make Your Campaign Stand Out
Step 6. Write Your GoFundMes Description
Step 7: Link Your Facebook Account And Share Your Campaign With Your
Friends And Family
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5 Tips for a Successful GoFundMe for Tuition
1. Share Your Accomplishments and Hard Work
It takes a lot of hard work to get accepted to college! To rally as much support as possible
from your friends and family, share stories of your achievements and sacrifices that have
helped you get into college.
You should mention:

Your awards, honors, and extracurricular activities
What you plan to do in college and why (chosen major, study abroad trips, clubs,
etc.)
Which college you plan to attend and what kinds of expenses youll have
How appreciative you will be for their help
2. Add Expenses as Wish List Items
Do you need a new laptop or books? Maybe a plane ticket for study abroad trip or
furniture for a dorm room?
If so, we suggest making a Wish List. This way, donors can choose to fund specific
expenses. Wish Lists can encourage more donations and make it easy to keep track of
your progress!
3. Spread the Word to Your Friends and Family
Now that your campaign is ready, youll want to share your campaign link with everyone
you know. Use the built-in sharing tools to let your family and friends know through
Facebook, email, and texts. Reaching out to your favorite high school teachers or coaches
is a great way to broaden your audience, too!
Another great way to rally support is to hold a graduation party or get together, where
you can let others know about your campaign in person. Having a laptop handy makes it
quick and easy for your attendees to make donations, and is a fun way to kick off the
campaign!
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You can also share your GoFundMe campaign offline by printing a poster. Simply log in to
your GoFundMe Account at www.gofundme.com/sign-in. Click the 'Share' button at the
top of your Dashboard, then click 'Print a campaign sign'.
4. Post Frequent Updates and Photos
The best way to keep up the momentum on your campaign is to post frequent updates to
keep your supporters in the loop. Posting updates allows you to share your progress with
them, keep them interested in your journey, and encourage continued sharing and
donating.
Also, be sure to share pictures of how you are getting ready for college, whether its
packing up your room or touring your new schoolyour supporters will be excited to see
whats in store for you!
5. Show Your Appreciation
Let everyone know how much you appreciate their support, and how meaningful their
contributions are during this thrilling time in your life. Be sure to send thank-you notes to
your donors! This will make them feel appreciated, and will encourage them to share your
campaign with others as well.
We hope these tips will help you fulfill your college aspirations, and we wish you the very
best on your journey!
Organizers of education campaigns are in a unique position to say thanks using messages,
photos, or video from those who benefited from the campaign. Send personal thank-you
messages to your supporters so they know what a difference they made. Who knows,
maybe they will want to make a donation to a similar campaign next school year!
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Tips for Donors
1. Donors fully protected -- we guarantee it
Our platform is backed by the GoFundMe Guarantee, the first and only guarantee for
crowdfunding. The GoFundMe Guarantee adds unprecedented security to all stages of
the giving experience. Donors will now be protected by a refund policy in the very rare
cases of campaign misuse, and funds raised by GoFundMe campaigns are guaranteed to
go to the right person, ensuring donors' intentions are honored and the recipient gets the
help they need. Users can learn more about the GoFundMe Guarantee at
gofundme.com/guarantee.
As more than 25 million donors already know, GoFundMe is the safest, most secure
platform for giving. Campaigns with misuse make up less than one tenth of one percent of
all campaigns. As the largest online fundraising platform in the world, GoFundMe is able
to provide this guarantee so donors and recipients never have to worry about the rare
cases where something goes wrong.
2. Were looking out for you

Our top priority is a safe, seamless donation process. To achieve that, we employ
state-of-the-art fraud-prevention technologies and a team of dedicated specialists
working to protect you around the clock.
3. Get to know the campaign

If you want to know more about a specific campaign, contact the Campaign Organizer
directly by clicking the icon next to their name on the campaign page. Learn more about
the transparency guidelines that we urge all campaign organizers to follow.
4. Still have questions?

Just ask. Our team is here to help, and well get back to you with a rapid response in 5
minutes or less.
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Chapter 3: State-Specific Data
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ALABAMA
Alabama College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Alabama: $10,040
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Alabama: 1,506
Total Money Raised: 565,000
Total Number of Donations: 9,622
College Fund for Abbey Walker
As most of you know, sadly, Abbey's dad died in a car crash on Oct 22. Steve
unfortunately did not have any life insurance, so we are setting up this account to raise
money to help Abbey with her expenses for her remaining time at the University of
Alabama. We ask that in lieu of flowers, that everyone please make a donation to this fund
to help Abbey finish her college education with as little stress as possible. In just 2 1/2
short years, she has endured the loss of her brother, Stephen, and now her beloved dad,
Steve.
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ALASKA
Alaska College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Alaska: $7,130
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Alaska: 250
Tuition For Fall Semester At UAA
I found out at the last minute that my scholarship fell through.
I've already paid the portion the scholarship doesn't cover. I have until Friday 9/18 to
come up with the rest to reverse the late fee that has been placed on my university
account. I know it's not realistic to believe that this much money can be raised in such a
short amount of time, but honestly, anything helps.
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ARIZONA
Arizona College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Arizona: $
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Arizona: 2,913
Total Money Raised: $1.2 million
College Tuition
Hi! My name is Isaac Duran and I am an aspiring medical student. I start college this fall
and I cannot wait to push forward my future! I am starting this Go Fund Me account in
order to raise money for my college tuition. I come from a low income family of nine and
my parents have both recently become unemployed and can no longer contribute any
money to my tuition. Thus I am turning to the generosity of anyone who has the means to
give in order to put myself through school. I am a first generation college student and I
want to pave the way for my siblings to go to college more than anything by first making it
through college myself. Any contribution that anyone can make would mean the world to
me and would allow me to focus on my school rather than tuition.
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ARKANSAS
Arkansas College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Arkansas: $8,247
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Arkansas: 840
Ayanna Worsham College Fund
Ayanna is currently a student at UCA in Conway, AR pursuing a Business Administration

Degree. Up until Gary's accident in February he was the sole provider for him and his
family. Ayanna's mother passed away much too soon when she was just 3 years old.
Ayanna is in need of tuition to continue her education at UCA. With her father in rehab,
Ayanna is unable to meet financial requirements to continue at UCA. She must pay $4,000
by December 15, 2016 to the university to carry on chasing her dreams.
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CALIFORNIA
California College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In California: $9,346
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In California: 15,338
E-Jayy!.. "From COMPTON 2 HARVARD!"
Hi everyone, my name is Sherree, and my son, Elijah "E-Jayy" DeVaughn, has achieved the
improbable and made history in Compton -- acceptance to HARVARD UNIVERSITY class
of 2021.
He could use your help making the improbable more possible. Though E-Jayy has been
awarded tuition and room and board, there are still many expenses not yet covered for
the next 4 years at Harvard.
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COLORADO
Colorado College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Colorado: $10,257
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Colorado: 2,386
Morgan's College Fund
Due to the overwhelming response of people wanting to help, asking how they can help,
what they can do etc, we have created a gofundme account on behalf of George
Frushour's unexpected passing to help pay for his youngest daughter's college tuition.
Morgan is almost done with her sophomore year and has two years left. She attends
Doane University in Nebraska, and is going to major in English with endorsements in
secondary education and ELL. Luckily, she received tennis scholarships, so her 30K/year
tuition is now 15K.
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CONNECTICUT
Connecticut College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Connecticut: $11,734
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Connecticut: 1,298
Kai at Wesleyan University
Last November, I came out to my parents as transgender; they subsequently declared

they no longer consider me family, but rather a stranger. Due to my familys withdrawal of
financial support, I am at risk of losing my opportunity to earn a Bachelors degree and a
career path. I am currently unable to pay for the upcoming 2017-18 year at Wesleyan
because I will not receive enough financial aid from the school or from the government as I
am legally required to submit my parents financial information on financial aid papers
such as the FAFSA.
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DELAWARE
Delaware College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Delaware: $11,935
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Delaware: 369
Help Me Stay at Westminster
Hello everyone!
My name is Gabriel Harley and I am a junior music education major at Westminster Choir
College in Princeton, New Jersey! Since I was a child, I have wanted to pursue a degree
and career in music, and have wanted to be able to inspire young people to follow their
musical dreams, as I was inspired to do.
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WASHINGTON D.C.
Washington D.C. College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Washington D.C.: $7,844
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Washington D.C.: 1,043
Tuition For Tee's Senior Year
Many of you remember back in 2012 when my one and only daughter Taahira graduated
from high school and headed off to college. Some of you even helped send her off with
gifts and attended her graduation party. A lot has happened since then! Namely
friendships, growing up, several appointments to the Dean's List at her school, University
of Maryland-Eastern Shore. She even got straight A's last semester. Tee took a year off to
work and pay some of her own tuition and fees and is working on campus this semester as
an instructional aide.
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FLORIDA
Florida College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Florida: $6,356
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Florida: 8,468
Please Help Send Me to Law School
Hi Friends,
The time is here for me to take my Law School Admissions Test and to apply to law school.
I have been working strenuously in studying for this examination, while interning at Yale
this summer at the Urban Resources Initiative affiliated with the School of Forestry and
Environmental Studies.
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GEORGIA
Georgia College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Georgia: $8,453
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Georgia: 6,887
Myhana's Spring in Beijing
Thank you for taking the time to learn about my story and my ambition to study abroad in
Beijing, China. I have always had a passion for learning new languages and traveling. These
passions are continuously being realized as I embark on my 10th year of studying
Mandarin Chinese and my plan to spend my Spring 2017 semester in Beijing, China.
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HAWAII
Hawaii College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Hawaii: $10,671
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Hawaii: 398
Keep Christina in College
I am asking for financial support to help with my educational fees to complete my college
education at Concordia College in Portland, OR. I have completed 1 semester of my
Freshman year. I was raised in Hawaii and my parents divorced when I was 6. By the time I
was 9 I was put in foster care for 3 years. Life at the time was very confusing but I always
knew I wanted to be something and make a change in this world.
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IDAHO
Idaho College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Idaho: $7,010
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Idaho: 547
Tuition help for nursing school
I am asking for financial support to help with my educational fees to complete my college
education at Concordia College in Portland, OR. I have completed 1 semester of my
Freshman year. I was raised in Hawaii and my parents divorced when I was 6. By the time I
was 9 I was put in foster care for 3 years. Life at the time was very confusing but I always
knew I wanted to be something and make a change in this world.
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ILLINOIS
Illinois College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Illinois: $13,278
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Illinois: 5,266
Keep Madison in Wheaton College
I am a junior at the Wheaton College Conservatory of Music, studying piano.

Wheaton is a very prestigious school so Im only able to attend because of
scholarships and loans for housing. Ive been able to make it for the past two years,
but this year something out of my control came up that I might not be able to pay for
my housing.
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INDIANA
Indiana College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Indiana: $9,201
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Indiana: 2,659
Samantha's Study Abroad Trip
Hello, my name is Samantha Britton and I go to school at th University of

Indianapolis. I am raising money to help fund my study abroad trip to Scotland and
England. The school is giving me an amazing opportunity to travel abroad from May
8th to May 21st. We will be visiting various historical sites while experiencing the
culture of these two beautiful countries. Any donation would be greatly appreciated,
thank you all for your time.
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IOWA
Iowa College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Iowa: $8,271
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Iowa: 764
Caroline's London Study Abroad
My name is Caroline M. Trewet, and I am a Junior at Northwestern College.

I have been accepted to study with Northwestern College this summer for 4 weeks
in London, England! But I can't get there all on my own. That's where you come in!
I'm working hard to make this trip a reality. The whole trip costs around $5,000,
which is quite a high number, but it's a pretty good deal in the grand scheme of it all.
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KANSAS
Kansas College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Kansas: $8,917
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Kansas: 810
Help Joel pay for school!
Hello friends, my name is Joel Britez and I am a student from Paraguay majoring in
Political Science and International Studies at Pittsburg State University, located in
Pittsburg, Kansas. Many people wonder how I ended up about 4,000 miles away
from my home. Well, my country has been going through governmental corruption
which has brought forth inequality for a very extended period of time and the
problem never seems to cease.
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KENTUCKY
Kentucky College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Kentucky: $9,953
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Kentucky: 1,677
Total Money Raised: $485,000
Study Abroad to Florence, Italy
As I approach my senior year at Eastern Kentucky University, I have the opportunity

to visit and study abroad. I will be in Florence, Italy for three weeks. During those
three weeks I will visit museums, tour the city, and take a class. With your help I can
cross this off my bucket list. I hope I can count on you to share, post, and donate what
you can.
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LOUISIANA
Louisiana College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Louisiana: $8,900
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Louisiana: 1,677
Send Poochie to College
Hey! My name is Charles Stevenson. I graduated from Lusher Charter School in 2016. I
will be attending Pearl River Community College this January. I have always struggled in
school and hated to read because it was so difficult. Thanks to my teachers, I graduated
from Lusher, one of the top high schools in the country, even though I was two grades
behind. I really want to continue my education, but as I was raised by my grandmother
from the age of seven, I don't have the financial means to go to Pearl River, so I'm raising
money for my college tuition, books, and housing.
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MAINE
Maine College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Maine: $9,678
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Maine: 523
Lets Help Frank go to College
My friend, Frank Higiro, needs tuition to earn his Certificate in Risk Management &
Insurance at the University of Southern Maine. Classes begin soon and he must pay his
tuition by this Friday, August 15.
I met Frank earlier this year through my friends at USM. He is a young asylum seeker from
Rwanda living in Westbrook. Why is he here? Frank had to flee his home as he had been
persecuted and jailed as a journalist for writing objectively about the issues confronting
the people of his country. It was not safe to stay.
As an asylum seeker, he cannot work until he receives authorization - a process he hopes

will conclude soon. In the meantime, he is anxious to improve his prospects for
employment as soon as his working papers arrive.
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MARYLAND
Maryland College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Maryland: $9,366
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Maryland: 3,233
Study Abroad to Cuba/Portugal!!!
Now in my junior year at Spelman College I am looking to gain a worldly and cultured
perspective of life outside of the United States, specifically within Spanish speaking
countries. I have thankfully been selected to travel abroad to Havana, Cuba and Libson,
Portugal during the summer of 2017. While in these countries I will be fully emerged in
Spanish culture, language, & society. As a political science major, I will personally study the
political regimes and historic influence of Spain on both countries.
Spelman College has awarded me with a $1,200 scholarship to travel but I am still
required to cover half of my tuition as well as my flights. Any amount helps and will be a
blessing to aiding me in achieving this dream.
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MASSACHUSETTS
Massachusetts College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Massachusetts: $12,276
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Massachusetts: 2,602
Michaels College Education Fund
Mike is about to begin his sophomore year at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
He is studying Computer Systems Engineering.
Mike was the President of his graduating class of 2015 at Hanover High School. He is also
a National Honor Society Member. He has certainly shown us that he is a serious student
and always does his best. I have known Mike his entire life and know that he will go on to
be a great success in life if we all help give him this opportunity.
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MICHIGAN
Michigan College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Michigan: $12,464
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Michigan: 3,994
My Chemical Engineering Degree
My name is Nickson Kinyele from Iringa, Tanzania. I am currently a third year chemical
engineering student at Western Michigan University
Unfortunately I face some barriers to making my dream come true. In the last year, I lost
my main source of financial support, who can no longer cover my university needs. I have
inquired about loans, scholarships and financial aid but due to my situation unfortunately I
am not eligible for any of this financial help.
I have been working hard to keep my dream alive, by commuting every weekend to New
York City from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. On the weekends, I sell Tanzanian
bracelets and jewelry I make in my spare time, these represent my Tanzanian culture. I
learnt this art skill throughout my schooling in Tanzania.
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MINNESOTA
Minnesota College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Minnesota: $10,952
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Minnesota: 1,607
Maggie Mohnkern College Fund
We would like to help Maggie continue her dreams and finish her college career!
Please help Maggie with all the crazy college expenses!
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MISSISSIPPI
Mississippi College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Mississippi: $7,409
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Mississippi: 818
Help Ike Graduate Loan Free!
It is a privilege for us to introduce you to Ike Hill, who is a junior accounting major at the
University of Mississippi. Ike hails from New Orleans, LA, and he found his way to Ole
Miss because of his drive to graduate from college! He is known all over campus for his
infectious smile, and he is a friend to all. Ike is involved in Reformed University Fellowship,
where he is a vital part of the leadership team as well as a Bible study leader for freshman
boys. Ike loves the Lord and attends Christ Presbyterian Church. He is a house boy at the
Tri Delta Sorority House where he helps serve up lunch and dinner daily. Ike is currently
interning at a local Accounting Firm.
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MISSOURI
Missouri College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Missouri: $8,632
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Missouri: 2,024
Send Maggie to College
I have also had a job, if not 2 at a time, since the day I turned 15. I am a freshman at Park
University this fall and am struggling to pay the rest of my tuition, after financial aid,
scholarships, and federal student loans. I have made a budget and for the year I will need
the amount listed. This will pay my remaining balance and give me a small amount of
money to live on throughout the year.
This past year has been one of the most exciting and struggling years of my life. I started a
journey to better myself by losing weight. I have lost 100lbs in the past year and plan to
continue despite the college stereotypes about gaining weight. I want to be able to
purchase healthy foods, make nutritious snacks, and cook some of my own meals, which I
cannot do on my current budget.
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MONTANA
Montana College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Montana: $6,409
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Montana: 306
Help Natasha Finish School
After finishing up a successful fall semester this week, I am excited to announce that I will
be graduating with my teaching degree this May! However, I need your help. (Here's the
funny thing about student teaching: instead of getting paid to work, I pay to work).
It has been a long road to where I am now. During my time at MSU I have endured many
things a traumatic auto accident which led to a femur fracture, a traumatic brain injury,
vision impairment, and medical costs; the deaths of several people I love dearly, including
my father and brother; leaving a violent relationship; and surviving sexual assault.
The obstacles I have faced have partly been the catalyst for my growth and my aspirations
as an early childhood educator. Unfortunately, they have taken a financial toll. The fact
that money is now the only obstacle in front of me feels refreshing, but it is still an
obstacle.
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NEBRASKA
Nebraska College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Nebraska: $7,883
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Nebraska: 426
Jens Danish School Tuition
I recently received a letter of acceptance into the Danish School of Media and Journalism
in Aarhus, Denmark beginning on January 30th, 2017. I was one of 10 international
students accepted into photojournalism program. The tuition for the program is 4,400
Euro, or about $4,700. Renting a student dorm room for the six-month period is an
additional $3,000. Unfortunately scholarships aren't available for this particular program
so I'm hoping to sell some paintings, drawings and prints in order to fund the opportunity!
I've saved about a quarter of it already and Mom suggested starting a gofundme to raise
the rest of the money for tuition; we all know Mother knows best.
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NEVADA
Nevada College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Nevada: $6,907
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Nevada: 885
Funding for my UNLV Education
I am writing this to inform you all that I am in a desperate need of assistance. I am an

incoming freshman at UNLV majoring in Pre-Professional Biology, with goals of becoming
an OBGYN. Unfortunately, UNLVs Financial Aid office has misplaced most of my paper
work. Because of the schools negligence, I am not eligible for Financial Aid at this time and
I am at risk of being purged from my Fall 2016 classes. On August 5th I was told I would
have to pay, out of pocket, 2,314.16 by the 26th of August or my dream will forcefully be
ripped from under me. My mom is a single parent who works tirelessly to provide for my
brother and I and she just can't afford it. I am asking you to donate whatever you can to
support my dreams. I guarantee this is not a scam or a method of attention seeking, just
simply a cry for help. Thank you all, God bless you.
41
NEW HAMPSHIRE
New Hampshire College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In New Hampshire: $15,650
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In New Hampshire: 465
Help Gaza Student Attend CUNY
My name is M. Dennis Paul, PhD. My friends and I have started this fundraiser for a
brilliant young woman living in war torn Gaza (Palestine) who has been accepted to a
special program at CUNY. I ask that you read the following appeal and visit the links we
have provided to learn more about this exceptional human being.
Walaa Al-Ghussein is a treasure; one of those rare shooting stars that lights up the sky
when all else seems dark and hopeless Recently, after a great deal of struggle and
sacrifice, Walaa obtained her undergraduate degree at university in Gaza. Previously she
had attended a summer long academic program in the United States where she excelled.
Most important, as a participant at the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at
Washington State University.
42
NEW JERSEY
New Jersey College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In New Jersey: $13,560
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In New Jersey: 250
Tristens Scholarship Fund
HELLO EVERYBODY! My name is Tristen Moore and I am ecstatic about being an

incoming freshman to Brandeis Universitys graduating Class of 2021! You see, Ive been
fortunate enough to graduate from one of the most prestigious high schools in the
country. The intuition that has guided me to Suffield Academy, has now led me to attend
one of the best colleges in the country, Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts
where I will be participating in their 5 year Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Arts Program
at the International Business School and receiving my degrees in International Economics
and Finance.
43
NEW MEXICO
New Mexico College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In New Mexico: $6,618
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In New Mexico: 679
Clarissas Boston University Education
My fabulous sister Clarissa, who works with the social services of Rio Arriba County, New
Mexico, has been accepted into the Boston University Social Work Master's Degree
Program. She will continue working to help the elderly, to decrease drug addiction, and
support those who need some extra help all while engaging in a world class education
from Boston U.
I know my sister will be successful, but a little help with some tuition costs and the ability
to meet with her advisor in Boston will go a long way. Help me in supporting her efforts to
gather more tools to help the people of Rio Arriba County.
44
NEW YORK
New York College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In New York: $7,707
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In New York: 6,884
Tuition for Salma Echaly
"It's so, so hard to go from freedom to not being able to go to the grocery store alone. I've
already been sexually accosted, which is the norm here and I fear for my life everytime I go
outside."
These are the words of Salma Echahly, a 2015 Barnard College graduate who was forced
to return to her home country of Morocco. Imagine the contrast from when she was a
happy honor student and an independent young woman in the workforce.
Today in Morocco, Salma is not permitted to walk anywhere alone - for the mere fact that
she is a woman. Nor can she get a driver's license to try to get a job because she is
prohibited from driving alone. Salma desperately wants to come back to the US to go to
graduate school to study Human Rights Advocacy so she can better help others in her
situation BUT she needs to raise the funds. This is why her American friends are starting
this GoFundMe campaign.
45
NORTH CAROLINA
North Carolina College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In North Carolina: $7,203
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In North Carolina: 5,162
AJs Education at the Citadel
My name is Alexander Jared Pang-Riddle and I am currently a cadet in my sophomore year

at The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina... My people are the original
settlers of Vietnam, with approximately seven hundred thousand left alive in the world.
My grandfather was the most highly decorated Montagnard soldier in the NhaTrang Mike
Force and single handedly saved many American soldiers by pretending to be a NVA
soldier and taking them down one by one until he could reach the Americans. My maternal
grandfather also fought in the Vietnam war and was a part of the 1st Air Calvary Division,
Company C 2nd BN 7th Calvary and was also part of the 97th MP BN of the 18th Military
Police Brigade while in Vietnam. As you can see I have some pretty big shoes to fill. I
would like to be the first Montagnard to graduate from the South Carolina Corps of
Cadets. I would like to inspire other Montagnard students from all over by showing them
that you can break barriers with a little bit of help and determination.
46
NORTH DAKOTA
North Dakota College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In North Dakota: $7,884
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In North Dakota: 131
Total Number of Donations: 919
Tuition: Damar Townsend/Pam Brinson
Hello Facebook Friends & Family. My friend Pamela Brinson is trying to raise $5000 for
the balance of her son Damar's college tuition. They have managed to put together
$13000 through various academic scholarships and grants so far. School starts August 29
so time is of the essence here. I am starting this campaign because higher education is
important to me. Higher education is also important to Pam (she is working to complete
her Master's Degree in 2017!). She did everything right. She planned accordingly but
some unforeseen administrative glitches have stalled her efforts to get Damar into college
this semester.
47
OHIO
Ohio College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Ohio: $10,266
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Ohio: 4,225
Aria's First Year At University
Hello my name is Anna, and this is my partner Aria. Our story is a newer one and yet an old
one at the same time.
You see, Aria is transgender. She was born in the wrong body, but never quite understood
why she felt so weird, why she felt so wrong. She struggled for years to ignore her feelings,
thinking that everyone felt that way.
Aria was raised in an extremely conservative household, and was home schooled. She had
no outlet for learning about who she really is, or a way to explain her feelings.
48
OKLAHOMA
Oklahoma College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Oklahoma: $8,026
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Oklahoma: 1,266
Howard Or Hopeless
My name is De'Juae Leathers and I am a passionate, hardworking, dedicated, and outgoing

student at Howard University. I am a sophomore Political Science and African American
studies double major and Public Relations minor.
Due to the many knives life throws at you fulfilling the responsibility of paying for my
education alone has become a burden that is keeping me from enrolling for a new year.
49
OREGON
Oregon College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Oregon: $9,693
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Oregon: 2,131
Total Money Raised: $1.07M million
Help Me Get To My Dream College!
First off, if you're reading this: Thank you so much for visiting my page and being a part of
my journey!
In June of this year, I was accepted to my dream school - P rescott College in Prescott,
Arizona! It's a very small liberal arts college located in central Arizona that focuses on
Social Justice and the environment. I would love to pursue a degree in either Border
Studies and/or Social Justice and Human Rights. I want to make a difference - whether it's
on a personal or broader level - and I know that I absolutely have the passion for it. I plan
on starting at Prescott College in January 2017.
50
PENNSYLVANIA
Pennsylvania College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Pennsylvania: $13,884
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Pennsylvania: 4,314
Finish Grad School for Mom
On August 21st, 2016 my mother, Dorothea Davis, passed away suddenly at the age of 59.
In addition to being the best confidant, provider, protector, and friend that anyone could
ask for, she was a lifelong health professional, working as a medical records transcriber for
27 years; before that, she was a Social Worker at the former Medical College of
Pennsylvania's Neonatal Ward for a decade.
51
RHODE ISLAND
Rhode Island College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Rhode Island: $11,407
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Rhode Island: 373
Please Help Me Achieve My Dream
My name is Miguel Crisostomo and I'm 19 years old. I'm currently a sophomore at
Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. I am majoring in
Sports/Entertainment/Event Management in the hospitality wing and I need your help to
achieve my dream of continuing my education.
Being the eldest son of my father and deceased mother, I want to be the best I can be for
myself and my younger brothers, Michael, 14, and Angel, 7. I am the first in my close family
to make it this far in my educational career and I want to be a role model to them so they
can strive to be the best they can be as well. I don't want to let an object such as money
stop me from continuing my dream but unfortunately, this is where we are.
52
SOUTH CAROLINA
South Carolina College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In South Carolina: $12,192
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In South Carolina: 1,831
School Tuition for Visa
Hi Everyone,
As most of you know, I am an international student from Peru who came to the United
States to pursue a better education, opportunities, and quality of life. The main event that
preceded this opportunity to come here was of the tragedy suffered by my entire family in
the untimely death of my father. Despite that, since my arrival in Columbia 9 years ago, I
have most definitely been blessed. I came to the States when I was 13 and started as a
freshman in high school at Ben Lippen. I was blessed with a scholarship that allowed me to
study and live in the boarding program throughout high school
53
SOUTH DAKOTA
South Dakota College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In South Dakota: $8,138
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In South Dakota: 163
Help student with college
A student of mine needs some help! He is moving away to college, but in the middle of the
situation he was kicked out of his house. His parents no longer wish to help pay for his
residence fee for his dorm. He has complete financial aid, but will not receive the money in
time for the dorm fee! Please help this amazing student out.
54
TENNESSEE
Tennessee College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Tennessee: $9,518
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Tennessee: 2,570
Need Help - Final 15 Hrs for Degree
I am Twanda Scott. I am in the process of completing my BS Degree in Healthcare

Administration at Middle TN State Univ. I have done this completely on-line, as this is the
only way I could go back to school. Federal & bank loan fundings are no longer available
for me. I am at the last 2 semesters and in need of assistance. I was told on 8/11/2016, a
couple of weeks before the semester starts, that I had max'd out on my school loan
amounts. The deadlines for most scholarships has passed. I am also doing other things to
help myself, such as: emptying savings, tuition reimbursement at work, etc. , to be
proactive in this endeavor. I would greatly appreciate your kind support.
Thank you so very, very much and God bless you extra for your kindness!
55
TEXAS
Texas College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Texas: $9,566
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Texas: 10,152
Martha Sheeder Endowed Scholarship
On October 15, 2016, Martha Painter Sheeder collapsed at dinner for an unknown reason
and was without oxygen for too long, resulting in severe and irreversible brain damage.
She was removed from life support on October 20, 2016 and passed within minutes,
surrounded by her loving family.
As most know, Martha returned to school to study nursing later in life at Baylor's Louise
Herrington School of Nursing in Dallas. Just prior to finishing her studies, she was
diagnosed with breast cancer. Fighting cancer was likely one of the most difficult
experiences of her life, but she didn't show it--she never lost her sense of humor and
positivity. She knew God's plan was bigger than this.
56
UTAH
Utah College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Utah: $6,581
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Utah: 1,064
Help Ludovic Finish His MBA at USU
Over the past 8 years Will and MJ McGregor have traveled to Africa a few times each
year for a month or so. They do so as part of a service mission to teach midwifes, nurses,
and doctors neonatal resuscitation.
On one of their first trips to Africa, Will and MJ met Ludovic (Ludo) Attiogbe. Ludo has
served as the in-country contact for the projects and as their guide, translator, advisor and
indispensable assistant during all of their trips to Togo. Working so closely together under
high pressure conditions in some very difficult circumstances, the McGregors became
very well acquainted with Ludo. Eventually they were able to meet Ludos family and to
spend some down-time together.
57
VERMONT
Vermont College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Vermont: $15,446
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Vermont: 339
Brandon's Professional Development
Hey Friends, Family, and Brothers!
I am currently a first year Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration graduate
student at the University of Vermont pursuing my dream of working with college
students!
As a professional it is imperative that I continue my education outside of the classroom at

professional conferences and webinars.
58
VIRGINIA
Virginia College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Virginia: $12,323
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Virginia: 3,447
Pediatrics Clinicals in Guatemala
Dear friends and family,

These last couple years, I have been at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA, studying
nursing in the hope and plan of using my nursing skills on the mission field someday. This
past summer, an amazing opportunity opened up for me to join a medical missions team
led by the Liberty School of Osteopathic Medicine and the School of Nursing to be able to
do my Pediatrics clinicals in Guatemala.
59
WASHINGTON
Washington College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Washington: $9,265
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Washington: 3,034
Help Olivier Work for Peace/Justice
A child who lived through the Rwandan genocide and the civil war in Zaire, Olivier
Ndikumana dreamed of growing up to work for humanitarian organizations, like the aid
workers he met in the refugee camps he lived in as a boy. In pursuit of this dream, he
studied French at school, English at home, and documentary film-making with the Voice of
America. Recognized for his successful videos about Rwandas peace and reconciliation
efforts, and his skill in languages, he was soon working throughout the Democratic
Republic of the Congo for international media and relief organizations.
60
WEST VIRGINIA
West Virginia College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In West Virginia: $7,488
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In West Virginia: 395
Brandon's College Caregiving Fund
Hello everyone, my name is Brandon Cavendish. I was born with a rare genetic disorder
known as Spinal Muscle Atrophy type II. This disease confines me to a wheelchair, making
me completely dependant upon others to take care of me. Even though I am physically
disabled I have not let that stop me. All throughout my education I excelled in academics
and was consistently in the top of my class. I am a member of the National Honor Society,
attended Mountaineer Boys State among numerous other achievements. I kept a 3.9 GPA
all through highschool and was involved in show choir, and choir all throughout school. I
am currently enrolled at Marshall University in West Virginia as a freshman Computer
Science major. Computers have always been a passion of mine and I hope to one day make
a contribution to the technological society.
61
WISCONSIN
Wisconsin College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Wisconsin: $8,928
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Wisconsin: 1,713
Help Fatma protect nature
I am Fatma, originally from Bizerta in North Tunisia and I have been living in Venice for
several years where I completed my studies in Architecture and practiced the field with a
Master Architect Iginio Bonoldi.
My passion for the sea and my deep love for my native city which was disfigured and
ruined by a massive project called Marina Cap 3000 made me shift my career. The
upsetting social and environmental impacts caused by this project took me to pursue a
master's degree in Marine Spatial Planning.
62
WYOMING
Wyoming College Data

Average Cost of Attending A Public University In Wyoming: $5,055
Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Wyoming: 120
Total Number of Donations: 584
Kenneth's College Fund
Hi, my name is Kenneth Randall. I am a Wyoming born and raised farm kid who is now
attending college at the University of Wisconsin-Plattevile. I am raising this money to help
me pay for the rest of my college bill. I graduated from a small school in Yoder, Wyoming
where I played Football, Basketball, Soccer, was apart of the Southeast FFA Chapter, and
a member of 4-H since I was a kid. I grew up with the mindset that hard work was
rewarded, and that nothing came for free. My Senior year I discover that my true passion
was becoming an Engineer. I worked most of my last summer in Wyoming to try to make
enough to pay for college, but I didnt make as much as I needed to. Without the funds to
pay my bill I will be kicked out and my dream will be over.
63

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GoFundMe for College

A Guidebook to Help Students Pay for Tuition and Other College

This guidebook includes three sections:

GoFundMe Data: 2014-Present

Alaska $7,130 Michigan $12,464 Texas $9,566

Arizona $10,957 Minnesota $10,952 Utah $6,581

Arkansas $8,247 Mississippi $7,409 Vermont $15,446

California $9,346 Missouri $8,632 Virginia $12,323

Colorado $10,257 Montana $6,409 Washington $9,265

Connecticut $11,734 Nebraska $7,883 West Virginia $7,488

Delaware $11,935 Nevada $6,907 Wisconsin $8,928

DC $7,844 New Hampshire $15,650 Wyoming $5,055

Florida $6,356 New Jersey $13,560

Georgia $8,453 New Mexico $6,618

Hawaii $10,671 New York $7,707

Idaho $7,010 North Carolina $7,203

Illinois $13,278 North Dakota $7,884

Indiana $9,201 Ohio $10,266

Iowa $8,271 Oklahoma $8,026

Kansas $8,917 Oregon $9,693

Kentucky $9,953 Pennsylvania $13,884

Louisiana $8,900 Rhode Island $11,407

Maine $9,687 South Carolina $12,192

Maryland $9,366 South Dakota $8,138

California 15,338 $8.3M

E-Jayy!.. "From COMPTON 2 HARVARD!" $21,108

Let's get Ashley to College! $12,540

Keegan's Stonehill College Funding $11,340

Khalil Bridges' College Fund $48,925

Send Vicente to College $9,315

Help Gaza Student Attend CUNY $8,995

Step 1: Visit GoFundMe.com/college-tuition-fundraising And Click Start

Step 2: Set Your Goal

Step 3. Write A Catchy Title

Step 4: Set Your Category And Enter Your Zip Code

Step 6. Write Your GoFundMes Description

You should mention:

2. Add Expenses as Wish List Items

3. Spread the Word to Your Friends and Family

4. Post Frequent Updates and Photos

5. Show Your Appreciation

2. Were looking out for you

3. Get to know the campaign

4. Still have questions?

Alabama College Data

Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Alabama: 1,506

Total Money Raised: 565,000

Total Number of Donations: 9,622

College Fund for Abbey Walker

Alaska College Data

Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Alaska: 250

Total Money Raised: 124,000

Total Number of Donations: 1,659

Tuition For Fall Semester At UAA

I found out at the last minute that my scholarship fell through.

Arizona College Data

Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Arizona: 2,913

Total Money Raised: $1.2 million

Total Number of Donations: 18,400

Arkansas College Data

Number of GoFundMe Campaigns In Arkansas: 840

Total Money Raised: 261,000

Total Number of Donations: 4,600