College is expensive in itself, and thats not even including all of the other expenses that college students have. Many students have it easy -- they have a scholarship that pays for everything they need while theyre in school. However, those of us who arent so lucky have to learn tricks on how to survive with all of our new expenses. Read this article for tips on how to save money in college: Buy Schoolbooks Online
The cost of schoolbooks is outrageous. Even worse, 95% of the time youre going to take your books back at the end of the semester, and the bookstore is going to refuse to buy it back. So, while you might feel better at the beginning of the semester with a shiny new textbook, youre going to regret passing over the ratty used textbook at the end of the semester when youre trying to raise money for next years books. The solution, buy your books online. If they have all of the pages, theyll do. If its 90% cheaper, youll have a good story to tell other students when they notice your ratty book. Decline Credit Card Offers
When youre struggling for money, those credit card offers are going to look pretty tempting. Credit card companies know this, so they target college students. The problem is that youre actually spending more money when you buy on a credit card, and, if youre already struggling with finances, interest charges on food arent going to help. And creditors calling you arent going to help your stress levels. Wait Before Buying Books
A lot of instructors list books as required that you wont crack open all semester. Instead of coming to class prepared the first day, wait it out and gage whether or not youre going to need the book. Better yet, try to find a copy to borrow from your local library. Bring Your Lunch
The five dollars a day youre going to spend on take out food on campus is going to add up faster than the calories. If you have to have a meal while youre at school, bring it from home. If nothing else, youll have some extra money for the weekend. Live Close to Campus
If you cant live in a dorm, try to get an apartment as close to campus as possible. Youll save money on gas, and youll have campus resources, like computers, readily available to you. Not having to buy a computer and computer programs will save you a lot of money. |
