How To Save Money For Textbooks In College

If you are a college student, then you should know that textbooks are a huge expense every semester.  Depending on the number and nature of courses I take, textbooks generally run me anywhere from $300 to $600 per semester.  However, I have been able to lower that amount each semester I have been a student by utilizing a few clever techniques.

Buy Online

Online vendors like Amazon.com or Chegg will save you money if you are willing to put in the effort to find your books.  Even with shipping expenses, books will usually be cheaper to purchase online.  

Buy Used

This should go without saying, but you would be surprised at the number of students who select the newest version of the textbook instead of a dated one.  At the University of Kansas bookshop, used books are about 25% cheaper than new ones.  

Rent From The Bookstore

Renting your books is a relatively new technique that can save you lots of money.  Bookstores will send you a reminder at the end of each semester to return the books.  I highly recommend renting for classes that are not related to your major.  

Borrow From Friends

Chances are you have a friend who has taken a course before you.  Your friend might want some compensation, so negotiate a deal.

The Library

The textbook you need might be located in the library on campus.  Before paying retail value, look at the library.  If you get lucky, checkout the book for the long term and return it at the end of the semester.

E-Books

Almost every textbook is available online for free or for a significantly reduced rate.  If you don’t mind reading off a computer screen, e-books might the best option for you.

Research Off-Campus Businesses

In Lawrence, there is a useful shop called “Beat The Bookstore” where you can find books at a cheaper rate than the campus bookstore.  

As you might expect, any combination of the above techniques will result in optimal savings for you.  College students generally don’t have cash burning a hole in their pocket, and shopping for textbooks the smart way can save you money you’d rather spend on something else or save.