The rumors are true… college textbooks are outrageously expensive.
On average, first-year college student spend over $1,200 on textbooks and course materials. A single textbook can cost hundreds of dollars.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to empty your wallet to get the resources you need to succeed in your courses. Whether you’re a freshman navigating your first semester or a seasoned senior looking to save, there are plenty of strategies to cut down on costs.
Let’s explore a few different ways to save on college textbooks, so you can spend less time stressing about money and more time focusing on your education.
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Buy Used Books
Look for secondhand copies, which can be found in bookstores or online. Your campus bookstore is your best resource, but you might also consider websites such as Chegg or ThriftBooks.
Used books are often half the original price, or even less.
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Rent Textbooks
Services like Amazon and eCampus offer rental options for textbooks.
This is especially beneficial for books you don’t want to own permanently.
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Check the Library
Many college libraries keep course textbooks on reserve.
You can borrow them for short-term use or check if they have copies for extended loans.
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Use Older Editions
Textbooks don’t always change drastically between editions.
Ask your professor if an older edition will work.
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Share with a Classmate
Team up with a friend to split the cost of a book. Just be sure to coordinate study times!
Additionally, upperclassmen might be willing to lend or sell their textbooks at a discount. Ask around in student groups or clubs.
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Digital or eBooks
Digital versions of textbooks are often cheaper than print. Websites like VitalSource and Google Books offer affordable e-textbooks.
You can buy from online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and AbeBooks, where you can often compare prices and find used, heavily discounted textbooks.
Also, some textbooks are available as free PDFs. Try searching online or checking sites like OpenStax, which offers free textbooks in various subjects.
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Check Facebook Groups
Many schools have book exchange groups where students sell books directly to each other.
Of course, be sure to practice proper safety precautions when arranging an online sale. Bring a friend when you go to meet up with the seller.
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Scholarships for Books
Some scholarships specifically cover textbook costs. These scholarships are often overlooked because students tend to focus on those that help with tuition, but they can be a game-changer.
Book-specific scholarships provide funds dedicated to course materials, such as required textbooks, lab manuals, and even access codes for online platforms.
Platforms like Red Kite make finding these opportunities easier than ever. In less than 6 minutes, you can create a profile and answer a few questions about your background, interests, and financial needs. Then we’ll match you with scholarships specific to YOU – including ones that focus on book costs.
It’s a hassle-free way to discover and apply for aid that you might not have found otherwise. Think of it as a double win: not only do you save on books, but you also free up funds for other essentials.
Take a little time to search for scholarships aimed at reducing textbook expenses. You might be surprised at how much you can save!
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Participate in Book Swaps
At the beginning and/or end of each semester, many campuses host book swap events.
Join these events in order to to trade books with your classmates. You might even try organizing one yourself!
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Consider Textbook Subscription Services
Some platforms, like Cengage Unlimited, offer access to a range of textbooks for a subscription fee, which can be cheaper than buying multiple books.
Textbooks don’t have to drain your bank account. With a little effort and creativity, you can find plenty of ways to save money.
From renting and buying used textbooks, to exploring scholarships that specifically cover book expenses, there are options for every budget.
Remember, every dollar you save is one step closer to achieving your academic goals without unnecessary financial stress.
So, before you shell out hundreds on that brand-new textbook, try out some of these money-saving tips. Your wallet – and your future self – will thank you!
Sign up for Red Kite to find scholarships today!