It's almost August, and for many young people that means the return to school is just around the corner. While the college experience can be a blast and open doors for future opportunities, it certainly does not come without a hefty price tag. In addition to school tuition, textbooks, groceries, and other daily expenses drive the average cost of an undergraduate program upwards of $20,000 annually.
With this being said, its important to try and save cash wherever possible. Here are some useful tips and sites I've put together to help ease the burden on the thrifty student's wallet.
Textbooks
One thing I learned in school was to NEVER buy a new textbook from a campus bookstore. They are ridiculously marked up, especially for something that is only going to be used for a single semester. Instead, try one of these options.
- Most campus stores will sell used copies of the texts for a fraction of the original cover price. If they do not have any used books in your local campus store, there are plenty of online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, and Barnes and Noble, where used copies can often be found at tremendous discounts.
- Renting textbooks has also become popular in recent years. You may not be able to highlight or take notes in the margins, but you will be able to return the book at the end of the semester a have a good percentage of your money returned. Sites such as Rent-a-Text, BookRenter, CampusBookRentals, and Chegg offer a wide selection of texts and can end up saving you as much as 90% .
- Talk to your fellow peers and professors. If you are having trouble finding a used copy of a specific text, split the cost with a classmate you are friendly with. This will save both of you a good amount of money, and provide you with a study-buddy. Also, sometimes professors suggest a book simply to reinforce the material discussed in class. If the teacher provides enough information, notes, and handouts, you may not need to have your own copy of the text. Additionally, school libraries will usually have copies of classroom books that you can access if you feel the need to read about something in more detail.
- If you do end up purchasing a book, whether used or new, don't forget to resell it at the end of the semester. This can be done through your campus bookstore or online through sites such as eBay or Craigslist. You probably won't receive as much money as you original spent, but some compensation is better than nothing.
Good Eats
Groceries are expensive. I have many friends who became dependent on Kraft Easy Mac and the McDonald's Dollar Menu to make it through the semester. If you want a diet that consists of a little more variety but won't cost you an arm and a leg (or your figure, for that matter), there are several things you can do.
- Buying in bulk can save you quite a bit in the long run. Stores such as Sam's Club, Costco and BJ's Wholesale Club sell everything from snacks, meat, fruits, and vegetables in wholesale amounts, significantly reducing the cost per item. If you are living with several roommates, you can all chip in then divide up the purchases, which ultimately saves everyone a good amount of money.
- Most people are unaware that "Dollar" Stores, or .99 cent stores, also sell many grocery and food items. Search around, more than likely there is one near your campus.
- When it comes to variety, there are many websites out there that have great recipes for college students on a budget. I really like Cheap Eats, as it breaks down each recipe by price so you can gauge how much you will be spending. Also, given their popularity and downright cheapness, these Ramen Noodle recipes offer tons of different ways to spice up the popular food.
Daily Living & Entertainment
Just because you're trying to live frugally doesn't mean your social life has to suffer. There plenty of activities available both on and off campus to keep the college student on a budget entertained.
- ALWAYS keep your college ID handy, you'll be surprised what it can get you! Many restaurants and retailers located in college towns will offer special discounts and deals to students. Museums and galleries also often waive fees for students in the area. Additionally, local public transportation often has it arranged so that students ride for free.
- Keep up to date with campus activities by checking the school paper, newsletters, and bulletin boards, and website. The student activity board, as well as other organizations, will often coordinate free or low-cost events for students living on campus. My school had comedians, casino-nights, guest-speakers, concerts, talent shows, and movie screenings in the auditorium every two weeks. Also, don't forget to cheer on your university teams at sporting events, which are always free for students.
- If you're not a student athlete, you can still join an intramural team as a great way to stay fit and socialize with others. If sports aren't your thing, try joining a club- there are always tons available and its an awesome (not to mention free!) way to meet peers that share similar interests.
- If your campus does not offer cable, DO NOT pay for it. Anything that can be watched on television can be found on the internet, and all campuses have WiFi access available. Sites such as Hulu, Sidereel, and Watch TV Shows Online, offer a great variety of television shows and movies, all for free.
Its no secret that a higher education is pricey, but these tips will definitely help keep your daily expenses in check. College is supposed to be an adventure. Not only do you gain skills that will help you achieve future success, but you will learn a lot about yourself and hopefully forge some lifelong relationships. Don't let a limited budget take away from this exciting experience!
Image thanks to Sean MacEntee