by Lora Stevens

Created on: August 24, 2009

College expenses usually add up much faster than one expects them to. As if the tuition, housing, and living expenses aren't enough, the required textbooks generally add up to a large sum that is tough to swallow as well. There are some options to reducing the financial output on college textbooks.

First, in order to find college textbooks at a good price, you must know what you need, and know this early. This begins with creating and verifying your class schedule as early as possible. Last minute changes to classes means last minute book-buying. The earlier you buy your books, the better opportunity you will have for a good selection of low-cost books.

The college bookstore is a great place to find books cheap, if you go early. Most college bookstores sell previously used books alongside the new books. The used books sell out first, so you must go early to get the best selection of used books. Many of the used copies are in excellent condition and are almost like buying a new copy of the book. (Whoever had that book last semester probably didn't study very much!)

Another place to find low-cost text books is on-line. There are many on-line bookstores which sell college textbooks and also websites designed specifically for books. Some on-line options are: Amazon.com, Half.com, and eBay. Your college may also have an on-line marketplace where students can individually sell their used books to other students.

Some other options may include campus bulletin boards where many colleges allow students to post things they are selling and/or need, including used textbooks. This is a place where you could place what you are looking for and bargain your price if another student contacts you with what you need. You could also contact the instructor of the class to see if any former students are have mentioned selling their old textbooks, however, this method could be very hit and miss and you may find a lot of work without much success through this route.

In any case, be sure to always verify that the text you are buying is an approved edition of the text the instructor requires. You do not want to get to class on the first day and find that you not only bought the wrong edition, but you also have to scramble and may pay extra money to buy a more expensive book.

College is expensive enough. Enjoy saving a little money by using these options throughout your education!

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