Saving Money While In School

So how much does going to school cost, anyway?

Well, likely more than you realize. By example, let's assume you're attending your ordinary, local, state university for a 4 year degree and the tuition is just $3,000 per semester. Here's what you can expect to pay in one year:

• Tuition: $6,000
• Room and Board: $9,000
• Books:$1,000
• Transportation:$2,500

That's $18,500 right there and you haven't had any "fun" yet like paying dues to a Fraternity or Sorority, gone out to any parties, football games, or nice, fancy balls either. But does college really have to be that expensive? Well there are ways you can cut down on your total expenses in small and moderate ways which will, in the long run, save you tons of money:

Roommate/live with family

Look at other options rather than staying in dorms if your school charges a lot for boarding. See if you can find a couple of roommates to rent an apartment with off-campus and split the cost. Better yet, stay home with your parents (we know, it's a drag), and save thousands that way.

Eat at Home

Eating at home doesn't mean calling out for pizza on a nightly basis, either. It means go to the grocery store like your parents do, and preparing your own food at home either to eat there, or even to take to school with you and eat between classes. Not only will this be healthier than grabbing a burger or taco at the local fast-food joint, but it will save you a very pretty penny as well.

Buy used textbooks

Why buy new? Used textbooks are a $2 Billion industry in this country based on the fact that people don't need their textbooks for their entire lives. Rather than shelling out $150 for that biology book you can probably find it online or at a local bookstore for half that.

Commute/Study rather than drive

Just like being in high-school, having wheels is the ultimate, right. Well it's also an ultimate expense. Rather than shelling out for gas and a parking permit, every semester, consider public transportation instead. As a bonus, you can use the time on the bus or train to study for that big test.

Now that you know how to save money while going to school, go over the information about repaying your college loan.