It’s no secret that money is not available for everyone. Some are just more lucky to have a few dollars more in their pocket. This winds up becoming either a more significant advantage or problem when it comes to universities.
Basic tuition alone can be quite pricey (especially in some campus that charges more if you live outside the state or city). But many other expenses can come down the line. This includes textbooks, food, dorms, and many other utilities (unless they’re provided).
But there are still ways that one can save (and possible earn) money to be in the best condition and avoid future debt down the line. That is why we will go over 8 of the best tips to consider if you’re just starting off. Also, these are tips for saving money on “attending” college, not on getting into it. That’s a topic for another article.
8. Find an Apartment Close To Campus
Shutterstock
Living in a dorm may seem like a lot of fun, but the expenses of room and board might not be. However, there is an alternative way to still live on campus, ok not really ON campus, but it may be close enough.
By living in an apartment, you might be able to avoid a significant amount of expenses that a college dorm would give you. Still might be expensive but cheaper in comparison. Furthermore, most apartment complexes might even include most of the other utilities (electricity, internet, etc.) as part of the monthly payment.
Then again, there’s always the option of staying at home for a while if you live close enough to campus.
7. Watch Online Over Cable
Shutterstock
This is a tip more, and more people are slowly starting to adapt to. Now, this is also only optional as this may be another expense on your own part, but it makes a good alternative. Rather than paying money for a cable subscription, you could instead pay for an online subscription to a streaming service.
They are often much cheaper and are more accessible as you can watch them at home or on the go. Even better, some colleges might even provide student discounts on some services. (Be aware that this might not apply to all schools, also be sure not to let these distract you from any homework or studying you might have.)
6. Minimize Textbook Expenses
Shutterstock
Textbooks are an expense that is the least avoidable to come across in your financial situation. But there are still ways to keep from overspending. The first helpful idea is to research the textbooks you need for a class and see if you can find one cheaper online, as someone else might want to sell their own copy.
This might not apply to every textbook, but the attempt is better than nothing. Furthermore, you should always pick the option to rent instead of buying. Not only would be cheaper, but it will also clear up space in the future.
5. Find a Job on Campus (Or Close By)
Shutterstock
Now that you have a few tips to save money, it still might not be enough to get by. Therefore you might need a job to help support yourself.
Thankfully most colleges always have a position here and there to apply to, some even have job advising on how to prepare for more significant opportunities such as tips on writing resumes and having mock interviews.
Although there are still plenty of smaller scaled jobs to look for in the long run. This might take up some time, but that’s where time management comes into play.
4. Avoid Late Fees
Shutterstock
Going back to renting textbooks for a second, being able to spend less is most definitely a privilege. However, that privilege can quickly be taken for granted if one doesn’t return the books on time. That’s why it is essential to return the books as soon as you don’t need them. They usually aren’t due until a week or so after school, so there’s plenty of time.
This also goes for anything else that may feature late fees, always pay what you need on time.
3. Volunteer
Shutterstock
This may sound like a strange idea to save money, but in the long run, it’s quite successful. By taking up the time to volunteer, whether it be for a charitable cause or just help around the campus. Your saving money on other events that might require you to pay more money entertainment-wise.
Furthermore, volunteering will also look very good on your resume. It will provide a much higher chance of securing a job that will pay well.
2. Learn To Cook
Shutterstock
Now we come to the subject of food. Campus usually have a meal plan that allows you to never go hungry, but it also happens to a price along with the dorm situation. Unlike living in an apartment, however, there is a much simpler way to avoid this expense. By learning how to cook, you more grant opportunities for yourself.
You’ll be able to get more nutrition in your diet, you will grow a brand new skill, and save a lot of money by purchasing food at a grocery store over food from college.
1. Create a Budget Plan
Shutterstock
This is a plan that tends to get overlooked the most by people (and not just college students). Sometimes people need a little push the right direction to understand whats most important in life. Balancing money is no exception to this rule.
The best place in action is to take the time to understand what you have and how to manage every bill you earn, spend, and save. There are even places on campus that can provide final advice, in case you need extra help in understanding the system, try to be honest with them too. That way, you will have better results.