Ways To Save Money At College

American Investment Planners LLC

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When it comes to college and money, figuring out how to save for tuition costs is only half the battle - once those are covered, students must find ways to save while they are living the college life. Though they may have a part-time or full-time job while attending school, bills sure do add up fast when you factor in the cost of supplies, transportation and so on and so forth.

Should you have a child preparing for their first day of college, or if you've come across this post because you're getting ready for the college experience yourself, below are a few tips that can be used to save:

Buy used instead of new: Textbooks are known to be one of the biggest expenses for college students. To reduce your textbook costs, always look for used instead of new, and always opt for renting when possible. And if your school's bookstore doesn't carry the reading material you need, don't hesitate to look online or at local stores instead.

Research meal plans first: If you'll be living on campus, chances are you'll be required to purchase a meal plan. However, while choosing the most expensive option may put your mind at ease knowing you have more than enough to cover the cost of breakfast, lunch and dinner, don't forget that you may wind up with leftover funds that you can't use at the end of the school year (not to mention, what if you aren't crazy about the food?). That being said, your best bet is to do some research and find out what types of food your school offers and for how much before selecting a plan.

Carpool and minimize driving time: Planning to commute? Then find a friend to carpool with! Additionally, try and plan your schedule so that you don't find yourself with hour breaks that encourage you to drive home. Even if you live nearby the college you attend, every trip back and forth uses gas (and money) that you could be saving.

To learn other ways that you can save money while at college, check out this article from U.S News and World Report MONEY.

Aside from how to save money during the college years, are you seeking information and guidance on how to save for tuition? To put together a savings plan that will benefit you financially, be sure to give us a call at (516) 932-5130 to start speaking with a member of the American Investment Planners LLC team today!