How much does college cost?
If youre already listing tuition, books and room and board, thats a good start.
But its just the beginning.
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Our team has compiled alist of creative waysyou can fatten your bank account this week.
This is a long list, so dont get overwhelmed.
Well keep it updated as offers changes or expire.
But even those who qualify for need-based aid wont receive enough to cover the total expenses.
Your Major(s)
Undecided?
It could cost you more than the time you wasted taking unnecessary classes.
Changing their major thats probably one of the biggest expenses, Dickenson said.
And colleges dont typically share (or cover) those costs when they disclose your financial aid award.
For example,Auburn Universitys college of engineering charges $420 per semester for freshmen.
However, after your first year, the fees increase to $735 per semester.
Dickenson also warned to be wary of programs that could disqualify you for your current financial assistance.
Gather your questions ahead of time based on your situation.
This might include determining your qualifications for need-based vs. merit-based awards, and finding out which ones are renewable.
Youll also want to ask about fees associated with your major and upperclassmen courses.
But a lot of the universities wont do that.
After you get home, compare your notes from the financial aid office and the department tour.
If there are discrepancies, reach out to the financial aid officer again to get an answer.
Campus Life
Pop quiz!
So what happens when you walk in the dorm and see that sad, empty, sparse room?
Do you:
A.
Consider it an experience in minimalist living that only adds to the educational value of college.
Guess which answer Dickenson hears most often?
She said, Well it doesnt match anything that we have and Im just going to replace it.
Beyond your room, theres the board, which includes your campus meal plan.
How to Cut Costs:Consider theseDIY dorm decorating ideasinstead of splurging on the matching throw and tapestry.
And beyond that mandatory meal plan,use these strategies to keep food costs down.
Transportation
Uber has changed the college experience.
Five or six years ago, all the kids wanted a new car, Dickenson said.
Take your credit card off your Uber account, she advised the mom.
4.Greek Life
Ah, the rush of… rushing.
It can mean memories and bonds that last forever.
But along with Greek life comes membership dues, fundraisers, parties and the obligatory T-shirts.
If you live in a sorority house, that number climbs to $15,949.
How to Cut Costs:Check with the fraternity or sorority you want to join.
Some chapters offer their own payment plans, scholarships and financing.
Extracurriculars
Whats college without making memories playing intramural soccer or marching in the band?
But the college brochure-worthy moments filled with good times and good friends arent covered by your financial aid package.
Also, understand what youre signing up for before.
Ill say sometimes to these parents…
These kids are spending practically every weekend on the road.
It all adds up.
Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a staff writer/editor at The Penny Hoarder.
Readher bio and other work here, then catch her on Twitter @TiffanyWendeln.
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…
