Saving and Reducing Costs

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Saving and Reducing Costs

It's never too early (or too late) to start saving for college. Below are a few ways to save extra cash while in high school and some ideas on how you can lessen your expenses once you get to college.

Timeframe Tips
High School
  • Open a savings account
  • Get a part-time job and save at least HALF of every paycheck
  • Save money you receive as gifts
  • Take the bus or carpool to school to save on gas money
  • Ask yourself if you really need things before you buy them
  • See if you can take college classes while still in high school to save money on future tuition costs
College
  • Live at home and commute
  • Become a Resident Assistant (RA) and get free or discounted room and board
  • Live on campus or close by so you can walk to class and don't need a car
  • Pick the right meal plan so you don't pay for meals you're not eating
  • Buy used text books online or from other students
  • Look for special offers for students at places you shop

Beware of choices that could increase your costs once you get to school such as: