Student loans come in all shapes and sizes, some good ones and some really bad. Compare the APR, which includes any additional fees to the loan, instead of just the loan's "rate.” Talk to a financial advisor that you trust and get opinions on fixed rates versus variable rates. If … [Read more...] about Shop around thoroughly before taking out a student loan
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Volunteer or work in exchange for college tuition funding
Many programs like the Peace Corps, ROTC, AmeriCorps and Vista all help pay off student loans or provide assistance during college in exchange for a service commitment upon graduation. In addition to financial need, these programs are great resume-builders, too. Just be sure to … [Read more...] about Volunteer or work in exchange for college tuition funding
Keep assets in your parent’s name to maximize financial aid
Children who are hoping to go to college should save money under a parent's name, or use a 529 savings plan. When colleges consider a student's financial aid package, they consider both the student and the parents' assets. They'll require you to pay a higher percentage of a … [Read more...] about Keep assets in your parent’s name to maximize financial aid
Get cash or credit for used books
Sell back your old books at the end of the semester to help pay for the new set of books you'll need. Following are your best bets on how to get the bet prices for them:College Bookstores: nearly all college bookstores offer store credit or cash for used books in good condition. … [Read more...] about Get cash or credit for used books
Purchase an international edition of a U.S. textbook to save money
Search Abebooks.com or Textbooksrus.com for international editions of U.S. textbooks. The content is generally identical, but the cost is lower. Just read the site disclaimers to learn which versions are restricted by copyright.Still looking for more ways to save on your books? … [Read more...] about Purchase an international edition of a U.S. textbook to save money