Your computer can be like a member of your own family, but don't take your eyes off of it, or it might be adopted by another student.

Finding out what college is actually going to cost is nearly impossible, but with a little help you can get close. New batteries for the calculator and/or a sharp pencil and great patience will be needed, but you can get somewhere in the ball park if you take into consideration the following:

Basic College Expenses, such as ...

• Room

• Tuition

• School uniforms (if required)

• Board (Basic Food Expenses) Figure three meals a day, plus snacks and stuff to drink.

• Additional Food Expenses, such as eating fast food off campus and paying for dates.


Basic Supplies

• Notebooks, paper, pencils, file folders (For a lot more information on this, see tip What Should I take to College?)

• Special subjects, such as art supplies, special engineering equipment, scientific calculators, music and musical instruments.

(It's best to wait and find out class requirements before purchasing. Talk to a classmate who's already majoring in your subject for some realistic input here.)

Don't buy everything before you go to college. That's because it's kinda fun to save some stuff to buy from bookstores around campus, in town or online.

Books

Each course requires something different-- from actual textbook expenses, to additional lab costs. (Talk to an upper class friend to get advice here.)

Usually, you can buy your books used. So, do some research before you plunk down money for brand-new books. You will find used bookstores near campus and also online.

One-time expenses ...

...such as a computer, TV, microwave, desk and chair, storage containers and facilities. After orientation and talking to upper-class friends, you'll have a better idea of what's needed here.

More important info about expenses...Click Here