Get Good Grades on a Budget

In pursuit for good grades, many students find themselves splashing out on expensive textbooks, top of the range gadgets and other such tools. However, if money is tight, this isn't an option.

Steps

  1. Look into any scholarships, loans or grants that you can. If you are eligible for one, you might be able to increase your budget! Make sure you register at the free site www.fafsa.ed.gov as soon as possible every January!
  2. Check out second hand book sales on online retailers for textbooks. (e.g. Amazon, Campusbooks.com) They are much cheaper than buying first hand and many are in good condition. If you are at college or university, you can also contact your department to see if they know of any students who are trying to sell their old textbooks. Your university probably sells used books. Be among the first people to shop for books in any given semester, if you want to get the best selection of used items.
  3. Shop around for pens and pencils or even try buying in bulk. Buying in bulk is initially expensive but it does work out much cheaper in the end. Going in with other students on bulk purchases can also help to reduce your cost.
  4. On campus stop by visiting banks, school groups, or organizations and anyone else who is giving out free pens, pencils and highlighters!
  5. Make good use of free facilities. Use the library to the best of your advantage.
  6. Look into getting a used computer if you can't afford a new computer but think one would be useful for your studies. If you are at college or university, rentals may be available.



Tips

  • If you are at college or university, look into the special student accounts offered by banks. These often have a lower overdraft rate than most other accounts and will be useful if you find yourself going overdrawn.
  • But try to avoid ever overdrawing your checking account! It costs a lot -- $25 or so fees from the bank, $25 or so fees from the store you bounced the check at ... it's not worth it.

Warnings

  • Make sure you don't get fines on your library books, which can work out to be rather expensive. Make notes of when the books are due back if you have problems remembering.
  • When buying second hand textbooks, get the latest edition if possible. But sometimes cheaper earlier editions may suffice. Always check with your professor.

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