College Money and Scholarships Tips

For many college students, the dorm is not an option, or they just don't want to live on campus in a cramped dorm room with a bunch of other students in the same room and building. But renting can be very expensive compared to the dorm. Here are some ways of saving money on rent. The best way to save money is to not get the first apartment you see. You need to shop around and see what's out there. Getting the best price may take some leg work, but even $50 less a month is almost $500 for the school year. It may seem counter to what college students should do, but signing a lease may get you a few dollars off the rent. A longer lease generally comes with better terms. The downside is that during summer, you will need to find someone to take over the payments, or live there yourself. Every college has a summer term and there are students who need rooms just for the summer. Speaking of renting rooms, that's another way to make rent cheaper. Rent a spare room. It could eithe...

There is more to a college budget than books and tuition. In fact, those will be more manageable than the costs of other things that most college students want or need while in college. Many things are not thought of and can bust any college budget. Here are just a few costs of college that are normally no in your budget. Outfitting a dorm room. Shelves, bedding, and other accessories to make your dorm comfortable will add hundreds to your costs. Shop wisely and think used. College Parking fees. This can add up to $50 a month. Leave the car at home if you can help it. Do more things on campus. Like study. Car insurance can be expensive.  Students and Electronic gadgets. Cell phones, a new laptop, maybe an ipad or ipod. These are budget killers. Students should make an effort to acquire these items before college, or better still, just go for a laptop. The others you may not need. College outerwear. From school sweatshirts to college team hoodies. You may feel the need ...