There might be *very limited* exceptions, such as:
* Financial aid: If you're applying for financial aid, the college might allow you to register before the aid is processed. However, you'll still need to demonstrate to the financial aid office that you'll have the funds if the aid doesn't fully cover the costs. Failure to secure sufficient aid might result in your registration being canceled.
* Payment plans: Some colleges offer payment plans that allow you to break up tuition payments into installments. However, you usually have to enroll in the payment plan *before* or during the registration process, not after. You'll likely still have an initial payment due at registration.
* Exceptional circumstances: In rare cases, a college might make an exception for students facing documented emergencies or hardship. This requires significant documentation and is not standard procedure.
In short, planning is crucial. You need to arrange your finances *before* registering for classes. Contact the college's bursar's office or financial aid office *well in advance* of the registration period to explore payment options and deadlines. Finding out about your credit score (which is not directly related to paying for college, though it can impact loan options) is also a separate process you should undertake well beforehand.