by Barbara Anderson

Created on: September 26, 2008   Last Updated: December 11, 2008

Attending a college or university IS expensive. But you already knew that. What you may or may not know is that there are many ways to help with the expense. Here are a few tips:

1. Seek out any and all sources of no-cost financial aid.

Scholarships are not only for incoming freshmen; you should keep applying for financial aid throughout your college career. Visit the college financial aid office each semester because they may know of new scholarships or grant money that you were unaware of. Some departments even offer departmental majors department-funded scholarships based on academic performance or financial need. Speak to your department chairperson or favorite professor to see if you qualify and you may be pleasantly surprised.

2. Check into the possibilities of student employment on campus.

Many departments on campus offer employment as a student aide. If you live in a dorm, you might be able to work there as a residence assistant. The bookstore, library, cafeteria, grounds keeping are other good options for part-time employment. Are you a computer or math whiz, or good at any subject for that matter? Sign up to tutor your fellow students. With any of these jobs, you can get a paycheck and gain valuable work experience at the same time.

3. Save on ATM fees with on-campus banking.

ATM fees are one of the biggest and most easily avoided expenses. The dollar or two you pay in fees each time you withdraw a few dollars will quickly add up. Open a checking or savings account at an on-campus bank or credit union so you don't have to pay fees to use the campus ATM machines. If you have an on-campus job, you may even be able to have you paycheck deposited directly into your account.

4. Consider how to minimize room and board expenses.

Carefully consider whether it is less expensive living on or off campus. With a dorm room, you already know the cost and the room is usually furnished. Unless you plan to live at home, you are responsible for expenses such as rent, security deposit, renter's insurance, furniture, dishes, food, utilities, etc. for an apartment or house, even a shared one. Plus, there is the cost of commuting to the campus.

5. Save on transportation costs.

It's much cheaper to use public transportation instead of your car whenever possible. Remember, auto insurance for students is very expensive, not to mention the cost of gas, maintenance, registration, and off-campus parking. Ask a friend with a car to share rides and offer some money to help pay their auto

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