Practical Tips to Save Money While in College

These days, a college education is an absolute necessity for virtually every career path. However, as higher education has become increasingly essential, it’s also become increasingly expensive. In fact, for a large percentage of students, getting a degree requires taking out massive loans. While there’s no way to magically wipe out all of the various expenses associated with a college education, there are numerous steps you can take to make higher learning less financially strenuous. Cost-conscious students looking to get through their college years without incurring a king’s ransom in debt would be wise to consider the following options.

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A Few Ideas

• Create a Budget – Establish a monthly budget to track your income and expenses. This helps you manage your finances effectively, ensuring you allocate enough funds for necessities while identifying areas where you can cut back and save money.
• Utilize Student Discounts – Take advantage of student discounts available at many retailers, restaurants, and online services. Always carry your student ID and ask about discounts wherever you go to maximize your savings.
• Cook Your Own Meals – Preparing your meals can significantly reduce your food expenses compared to dining out or ordering takeout. Plan your meals, buy groceries in bulk, and cook in batches to save time and money.

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• Buy Used or Digital Textbooks – Instead of purchasing new textbooks, consider buying used ones or opting for digital versions. Many online platforms and bookstores offer significant discounts on used and digital textbooks, helping you save a substantial amount.
• Use Public Transportation – Save money on transportation costs by using public transportation instead of owning a car. Many cities offer discounted or free transit passes for students, making it an affordable and convenient option.
• Work Part-Time – Find a part-time job or freelance work to earn extra income while in college. Many on-campus jobs offer flexible hours that can fit around your class schedule, providing valuable work experience and additional funds.

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• Take Advantage of Campus Resources – Utilize the resources available on campus, such as the library, gym, and career center. These services are often included in your tuition and can help you save money on books, fitness memberships, and career counseling.
• Buy Second-Hand Furniture and Supplies – Furnish your dorm or apartment with second-hand furniture and supplies. Check out local thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces for affordable deals on everything from furniture to kitchenware.
• Limit Eating Out – Reduce the frequency of dining out to save money. Cooking at home and meal prepping can significantly cut down your food expenses, allowing you to allocate those funds toward other essential expenses.
• Share Expenses with Roommates – If you have roommates, share the costs of utilities, groceries, and other household expenses. Splitting bills and bulk purchasing can reduce individual costs, making it more affordable for everyone.

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Enroll in an Online Degree Program

When online degree programs first sprung up, many people openly disparaged them, claiming they paled in comparison to a traditional education. However, now that online college has been around for nearly two decades, a growing number of students and educators are coming to realize its many advantages. For starters, attending school online means not having to commute to and from campus or spend thousands of dollars per semester to live in a dorm. This also means not having to worry about parking fees, meal fees, and other costs synonymous with the traditional campus experience.

Furthermore, depending on where you’re located, attending college in person may not be feasible unless you’re willing to relocate. On the flip side, online degree programs allow you to remotely attend schools in virtually every part of the country from the comfort of your home. If remote learning strikes you as a cost-effective way to experience college, visit the University of Arizona global campus.

Living at Home

Whether you intend to attend college remotely or in-person, you can save a bundle by living at home while earning your degree. Provided your parents don’t adhere to the outdated “18 and out the door” mentality, living at home throughout college can be an effective way to save money and alleviate the economic anxiety associated with higher education. (Of course, if you’re attending school out-of-state, living at home may not be a viable option.)

If your folks are kind enough to let you live under their roof during your college years, make a point of being as grateful and considerate as possible. Now that you’re an adult, they’re under no legal obligation to provide for you, and a lot of the behaviors they tolerated when you were younger are unlikely to be taken in stride. For example, if you have a history of coming home late, make an effort to let your parents know when you’ll be staying out into the wee hours and be as quiet as possible when letting yourself in. Secondly, even if your folks don’t charge you rent, help out around the house and offer to contribute a little bit of money whenever you’re comfortably able to do so. If they refuse to accept straight-up money, consider buying them the occasional gift or meal.

Purchase Textbooks Online

As anyone who’s purchased textbooks from a campus bookstore can attest, they do not come cheap. With some textbooks retailing for over $100, this doesn’t bode well for cost-conscious students. To nip this problem in the bud, make a point of learning which textbooks you’ll need well in advance and purchasing them online. As you’ll quickly find, most textbooks can be found at steeply discounted prices online in both new and preowned varieties.

Take Full Advantage of Meal Plans

Whether you’re a resident or a commuter, taking full advantage of a campus meal plan can help you save on food costs. Many meal plans cover three meals a day per semester, and every meal you eat in the cafeteria is one you won’t have to spend additional money on elsewhere.

It’s difficult to overstate the importance of a college education. These days, a four-year degree has become a prerequisite for an ever-expanding array of 21st-century careers. However, for many of us, college doesn’t come cheap. With millions of Americans trapped in student loan debt, there’s little wonder as to why so many prospective students are hesitant to take the plunge. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to make your college years less of a drain on your finances. If a reasonably-priced college education is what you’re after, the previously discussed pointers are sure to come in handy.

Additional Resources

1. Budgeting 101: From Getting Out of Debt and Tracking Expenses

   

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3. You Need a Budget

   

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4. Personal Finance QuickStart Guide

   

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5. Cash Envelope System for Budgeting and Saving Money - Budget Keeper- 12 Pack

   

   $5.99

   DESIGNED FOR PERSONAL CASH BUDGET - Save time and energy with our color coded cash envelopes, at 7x3" specifically designed for use as a cash budgeting system.

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6. Say Yes to No Debt: 12 Steps to Financial Freedom

   

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