There are numerous ways to reduce some of the costs associated with college, particularly for the creative-minded individual that can plan ahead. This article focuses on sharing ideas for slicing college costs.

First of all, the cost of books is a large piece of the college budget so I recommend you viewing the other post on this blog devoted to disussing ways of saving on college textbooks.  

Purchase supplies and incidentals at discount stores instead of on campus. Stock up before coming to campus!

While on campus, use a college debit card or bank debit card to control spending. While having a credit card available may be prudent for travel expenses and emergencies, it is wise to use a debit card for standard purchases so that credit card debt doesn’t accumulate.

If offered to the student by the financial aid office, take advantage of the Federal Work Study (FWS) Program. Part-time employment on a college campus is a great way to help out paying for incidentals as well as gain valuable experience.

Make sure to waive the health insurance fee assessed by your college if the student is covered by a family health plan. Don’t double pay for insurance!

Many colleges provide free or discounted room and board options in return for hours worked as an RA (Resident Assistant) or similar type position.

If you attend a college that offers a Co-Op program, take advantage of it! Not only, in some cases, can you earn money, but also valuable work experience.

Make sure that you take all the credits that you pay for! Some colleges will charge you for more credits than you actually take. For example, when I attended college, the college charged for 18 credits, which was equal to 4 full courses plus 2 additional credits. The college required me to take 4 full courses only, but I paid for the additional 2 credits each semester. Take advantage of credits paid, as you could shave off some tuition costs at the end of your program at some colleges. If academically possible, take the maximum number of credits allowed as this could potentially shave off the amount of time needed to graduate.

Take control and control college costs whenever possible! The above ideas are just some of the ways that you can decrease the cost of college.

More tips to come later on!