As high school seniors begin making plans to go to college, the financial reality of it all begins to set in for their parents. Sure, it's usually pretty easy for students and their parents to get approved for college loans to pay for whatever you can't pay upfront - but does anyone really want to graduate with tens of thousands (or more) in college loans? It's a rude awakening for college graduates to enter the "real world" after earning their degrees with all of that debt on their shoulders.

Since most of us don't come from families who are able to pull the cost of a college education out of their back pocket - you'll probably be interested (if not completely surprised) to discover that there are a number of colleges in the United States that offer 100% tuition-free education. In exchange for free tuition, many of the colleges expect students to work 10 or 15 hours in a job related to their field of study, but this could only be seen as an advantage! You graduate debt free, and with work experience for your resume.

Alice Lloyd College

Located in Kentucky, Alice Lloyd College offers guaranteed tuition to full time students from 108 counties. The university is a highly respected, private four year liberal arts college, offering degree programs in Education, Natural Science and Math, Social Sciences and Humanities. There are four residence halls (two for males and two for females) and students are required to live on campus unless commuting from an immediate family member's home. A variety of sports and activities round out campus life.

Berea College

Another free tuition school located in Kentucky, Berea College was founded in 1855 and currently spends more than $24,000 per student, per year, to provide each admitted student with a free education. There are more than 28 degree programs leading to bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees. The college offers more than 50 clubs and organizations, sports teams and on-campus facilities that make your stay comfortable. More than 50% of Berea students get to study abroad, as well.

Room and board are not included in the free tuition - and total around $6,000 per year. With additional financial aid provided by the school, many students pay nothing towards these expenses as well - or pay discounted amounts. You can apply to Berea - without an application fee, too!

All students work at least 10 hours per week on campus.

The Cooper Union

Founded in 1859 by philanthropist, Peter Cooper, The Cooper Union is one of the nations oldest colleges. It's located in New York City and offers programs in architecture, art, science and engineering fields. All enrolled students receive 100% tuition scholarships, estimated at $33,000 per year. Students attending The Cooper Union are responsible for paying room and board, miscellaneous fees and general living expenses.

There are a number of clubs and activities for students to participate in, as well as athletics.

Webb Institute

Also located in New York City, the Webb Institute is a college for Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering fields of study. Tuition is free, and there are no laboratory fees, library fees or course fees. Students are expected to contribute to their room and board expenses, which average $7550 per year, as well as some other basic living expenses and drafting equipment.

Located on Long Island Sound, students tend to sail or water ski in their spare time. Students have access to the local YMCA at no charge, as well as programs in music and athletics.

College of the Ozarks

Located in Minnesota, The College of the Ozarks has been named Stone Cold Sober School by the Princeton Review for ten consecutive years. Students are not permitted alcohol or drugs on or off campus. It's largely a christian school, offering tuition in exchange for work rather than pay. The college does not participate in federal loan programs, either, and discourages debt.

There are sports teams for both men and women. All students work 15 hours per week and two 40 hour work weeks during their stay on campus. Students must stay on campus unless they are over 21 years old or live with parents/immediate relatives, or are married.