There is no escaping it; obtaining a secondary education will cost money.
Most will seek a degree to receive a higher salary in their career choice, but attending a University or College also requires a large sum of money. In order to afford a higher education, students either need to work part-time alongside going to class or budget for school beforehand. If you wish to be a full-time student and focus solely on your course work, then it is best to earn a wage before applying and budget your savings for future school expenses, even little things like if you will decide to buy an essay.
Here is a list of 6 things you should budget for before attending University:
1. Tuition Fees
This is the big one. The cost for each semester may seem daunting, but there is always an option to apply for student loans. Tuition varies between universities, so make sure to apply for ones that are within your price range. A university is essentially a business afterall.
2. Course Material
It is impossible to receive an education without investing in the course material. Yes, being present at lectures will help you learn, but without the required textbooks to study, it isn’t likely you will pass the exams or assignments. Since buying new can be a bit pricey, keep an eye out for students selling used. Other students may have taken the same course the year prior and are more than willing to sell at a discounted price to make space on their shelf for new textbooks.
Budgeting will help, but it won’t give you the cash to pay for expenses! Title loans can help cover the cost of books and tuition in a pinch.
It’s always best to save, and when you use any sort of loan, have a plan to pay it off ASAP.
3. Accommodation
This is another money grabber and one you cannot avoid unless you have the fortunate option to live with your parents. Most freshmen opt for staying in the Residence Halls, which can be a great way to meet new people. It is also quite affordable and often will include the cost of the cafeteria. Another option is student housing. Rent is shared with other students and can be located close to the school. The final option, and probably best for mature students, is to find an apartment of your own. Again, you may need to find a roommate to split rent.
4. Transport
Even if you do live on campus, there is a chance you will want to escape to the city centre with friends every now and again. If you own a car, you must consider fuel and maintenance costs. On the other hand, public transport is readily available, but the cost per trip will add up. Look into the monthly transit options a city has. More often than not, there will be a student discount.
5. Food/Beverage
Food is essential, water is essential, drinking may not be essential, but often comes with the college experience. Although eating in the cafeteria is cost effective, it is only open at certain hours of the day. For those other hungry hours, you may find yourself wandering to different places to eat a quick snack (another cost that adds up quickly). If you do not have the cafeteria option, then you will be cooking for yourself. In order to save money on food, be sure to pack lunches, save leftovers and freeze everything to keep it fresh.
6. The Extras
This includes everything from entertainment to clothing. After everything else has been paid for, you should leave yourself a small chunk for fun. School can be stressful, so it is important to treat yourself every once in awhile. With a little bit of extra cash, you can make memories with new friends by enjoying local festivities, travelling to a nearby city, or even trying out new restaurants.
College may be an expensive part of your future, but there will always be ways to make it more affordable. When you receive your degree, you won’t regret the money you spent, you will only be thinking how proud you are of the hard work you put in.