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If you enjoy — and excel at — math and problem solving, you may want to consider majoring in computer science (or CS). As our world becomes increasingly dependent on technology, computer science majors are standing out from the crowd as competitive job applicants and higher-than-average earners.

Of course, getting a four-year degree in computer science involves taking on challenging coursework and investing a significant amount of money. For many students, however, it can be well worth the time, hard work, and expense. Here’s what you need to know about becoming a CS major.

What Is a Computer Science Major?

A computer science major is a course of study that focuses on computer hardware and software systems. Students learn how to develop software, design websites, and manage databases. Graduates with a computer science degree can pursue jobs in an array of fields, including software engineering, web development, information technology, and network systems administration.

Since our world is increasingly dependent on computer technology, computer scientists are in demand in a wide range of industries, from more traditional paths like corporate web development or information security to positions in fintech startups, healthcare, communications, and more.

Basically, if a job has to do with programming or maintaining computer software or networks, computer science can help prepare you for it. In some cases, you may need to pursue studies at the graduate level in order to unlock access to certain positions — but it all starts with a computer science major in college.


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Computer Science vs Computer Engineering

It’s worth noting that computer science isn’t the only degree path for those pursuing jobs in technology. Computer engineering is another course of study — but there are some important differences between the two.

Generally speaking, computer engineers get more education about the hardware side of computing: how to build a computer from scratch and a complete understanding of the architecture of a PC.

Computer science, on the other hand, focuses primarily on computer theory and software. Computer scientists work with complex software systems, machine learning-based algorithms, and more.

However, students with either major will graduate with a basic understanding of common coding languages and a general aptitude around computer software that will set them up for a job in technology.

Recommended: Are Coding Bootcamps Worth the Money?

What are Common Computer Science Degree Requirements?

A computer science degree can grant you access to a wide range of opportunities — but you do have to do the work to earn one first. Given its focus on programming and problem-solving, computer science is a math-heavy degree that requires students to grapple with some heady, abstract concepts. As college majors go, it’s definitely considered a challenging course of study.

For instance, computer science majors are typically required to take calculus courses, as well as other complicated types of math like linear algebra and statistics. Students will also likely need to master — or at least demonstrate proficiency in — several different programming languages (for example, Java, SQL, and Python®). They can also expect to face classes that cover complex and often theoretical topics, such as algorithm design, data visualization, neural networks, and basic cryptography.

Of course, the specifics of your degree requirement will depend on which institution you’re attending and also which specific computer science degree you’re after.

For instance, both bachelors of science (B.S.) degrees and bachelor of arts (B.A.) degrees in computer science are available at the undergraduate level. Generally speaking, a B.A. might allow for more electives and studies outside of the computer science department, whereas a B.S. might have more stringent requirements.

There are also masters- and doctorate-level computer science studies for those who’ve already completed their undergraduate degree — though you’ll very likely need to have chosen a major related to computer studies rather than, say, a course of study in the humanities.

Recommended: 20 of the Most Popular College Majors

How Much Can You Earn with a CS Degree?

While there are many exciting reasons to pursue a computer science major, given how much money it costs to go to college, many students want to know how much they can stand to earn once they have the degree. (This is also sometimes referred to as figuring out your ROEd or return on education — most degrees in America can cost a lot, but not all of them offer great earning prospects in return!)

And the good news is that a computer science major can put you in line for some of the most lucrative and in-demand job positions out there.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information research scientists earned a median of $131,490 per year in 2021.

Along with great pay, computer scientists can also look forward to great job availability; the BLS expects job prospects to grow 21% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

The Takeaway

Computer science can be a great course of study for people who are interested in learning about computer programming, software development and maintenance, and really all things tech. As a computer scientist, you might code the next smash-hit video game or develop a new kind of AI… all while earning a nice salary and enjoying plenty of job opportunities.

But, of course, a computer science degree comes at a cost. According to U.S. News, the average cost of tuition and fees to attend a public college in 2022-23 was $10,423 for in-state students and $22,953 for out-of-state students. The tuition and fees for a private college was $39,723 per year. And, these numbers don’t include the cost of room and board and other expenses.

Fortunately, there are several options for parents and students who need help paying for a computer science degree. A great first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form opens up opportunities for students to receive grants, scholarships, work-study positions, and federal student loans.

Another option for covering the cost of attendance for college is to take out a private student loan. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates tend to be higher than federal student loans, but borrowing limits are typically higher. These loans are not need-based and generally require a credit check. Borrowers (or cosigners) with excellent credit tend to qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind that private student loans may not offer the same borrower protections that federal student loans offer, such as forbearance or income-driven repayment plans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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Photo credit: iStock/DragonImages

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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It’s no secret that college can be expensive. What’s not-so-widely known is that there are a number of states that offer eligible residents free tuition for both two- and four-year degree programs.

While many of these programs only cover tuition (not room and board and other expenses), they can be a huge help if you are looking for an affordable way to get a college degree. Read on to learn more about how free college programs work, where to find them, and how to fill in any remaining financing gaps.

What Are Free College Tuition Programs?

Free college tuition programs are typically state-sponsored programs that offer free tuition to eligible students. To qualify, you typically need to be a resident of the state and, in some cases, demonstrate financial need. Some states will also award free tuition to students that come from communities that are underrepresented in college attendance​ or who are first generation college students.

Often, tuition-free programs only cover the cost of tuition, which means you may still have other expenses to cover, including fees, supplies, and room and board. However, there are some free college tuition programs that will cover school fees or provide stipends for necessary expenses like textbooks.
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💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

States With Free College Tuition

What follows is a roundup of states that offer free tuition to two-year, four-year, and/or certificate programs.

California Promise Program

The California College Promise Grant waives fees for nearly half of students in the California Community College system , while others only need to pay $46-per-unit fee. For example, if you’re a California resident enrolling in 12 units, you would pay $552 each semester. Students that live out of state pay more.

Indiana 21st Century Scholars Program

The 21st Century Scholars Program encourages Indiana students in the 7th and 8th grade to stay in school and keep up their grades by promising them money for college if they meet program requirements.

Oklahoma’s Promise

To qualify for the Oklahoma’s Promise scholarship program, Oklahoma students must be enrolled in the 8th, 9th, or 10th grade and their parents’ federal adjusted gross income can’t exceed $60,000 (with one or two dependent children) or $70,000 (with three or four dependent children).

New York Excelsior Scholarship

Through the Excelsior Scholarship , New York families and individuals that make up to $125,000 a year will qualify to attend college tuition-free at all CUNY and SUNY two- and four-year colleges in New York State.

Washington College Bound

In the state of Washington, students can apply to participate in the College Bound scholarship program, which gives eligible students public college tuition, or an equivalent amount for an approved private college or career school. Students must apply for financial aid and attend a participating college in Washington.

Recommended: In-State Tuition: a Look at Establishing Residency

Arkansas Future Grant

The Arkansas Future Grant covers the cost of tuition and fees for certain certificate and associate degree programs at public education institutions in Arkansas.

Delaware SEED Program

The Delaware SEED Program gives scholarships to Delawareans of all ages who would like to pursue an academic degree (including an associate or bachelor’s degree) or a workforce training certificate at Delaware Tech.

Hawai’i Promise Scholarship

The Hawai’i Promise Scholarship provides free in-state tuition to students with financial needs who attend the University of Hawai’i Community College. This program covers direct education costs including tuition, books, supplies, transportation, and school fees.

Kentucky Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship Program

The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship Program assists Kentucky college and high school students in paying for tuition as they work towards earning an industry‐recognized certificate or diploma.

Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship

Students who are pursuing certificates, vocational certificates, or associate degrees may qualify for the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship if all other aid options are exhausted and they are enrolled in select Maryland community college programs.

Minnesota MnSCU Two-Year Occupational Grant Pilot Program

Minnesota students may qualify for financial assistance through the MnSCU Two-Year Occupational Grant Pilot Program if enrolled in qualifying career and technical programs at MnSCU two-year college.

Missouri A+ Scholarship

Missouri students who attended A+ designated high schools may qualify for the Missouri A+ Scholarship if they attend a select public community college, vocational school, or technical school.

Montana Promise Act

Students attending a two-year institution of the Montana university system and taking select courses may qualify for the Montana Promise Act . To be eligible, students must be enrolled in a Montana community or tribal college, or other Montana university system two-year institution at least part-time.

Recommended: What Is the Cost of Attendance in College?

Nevada Promise Scholarship

The Nevada Promise Scholarship is a last-dollar scholarship that can cover up to three years of tuition and mandatory fees not covered by other forms of gift aid for Nevada high school graduates to attend community college.

The Oregon Promise Grant

Oregon students seeking assistance paying for college should consider applying for the Oregon Promise
Grant which covers the tuition costs at any Oregon community college for students who recently graduated high school or passed the GED test.

Recommended: What Are College Tuition Payment Plans and How Do They Work?

Rhode Island Promise

The Rhode Island Promise program allows recent Rhode Island high school graduates to obtain an associate degree at the Community College of Rhode Island tuition-free.

Tennessee Promise

The Tennessee Promise program is a scholarship and mentoring program for students attending any of Tennessee’s 13 community colleges, 27 colleges of applied technology, or other select eligible institutions.

Finding Ways to Pay for College

Free tuition programs may not be available to all students. In that case, paying for college may require compiling together a few different sources of financing.

Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) each year to apply for federal aid, including scholarships, grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs.

If college students need help covering the costs of pursuing higher education and don’t receive enough financial aid to do so, they have the option of applying for private student loans. Unlike federal student loans, which are issued by the U.S. government, private loans come from private institutions, such as banks, credit unions, and online lenders.

Generally, students will want to exhaust federal student loans first, as they come with government-backed benefits such as low fixed interest rates and income-driven repayment plans that are not available with private student loans.

While private student loans can cost more than federal student loans, you can often borrow up to the total cost of attendance (including room and board), which gives you more borrowing power than you can get with the federal government.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

The Takeaway

Some states offer free tuition programs that provide residents with resources to help cover their tuition costs. For those that qualify, these programs can provide much-needed financing to help them pursue their education goals.

Sometimes, state and federal aid isn’t enough to cover a students’ college costs. In that case, some students may explore private student loans. Though these loans may lack some of the borrower protections available for federal student loans, they can be an option for filling in funding gaps. When shopping for private student loans, it can be helpful to compare potential interest rates and fees with different lenders to find the best deal.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

---

Photo credit: iStock/Vimvertigo

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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College grants are a form of financial aid that can be used to pay for tuition, room and board, and related school expenses. Unlike college loans, grants do not need to be paid back, which is why they are often referred to as “free money” for college.

Grants are typically awarded based on financial need, though, in some cases, merit comes into play. Either way, getting grants can be competitive. Read on for a closer look at how grants work, including common eligibility requirements, and how to find and apply for grants.

College Grants vs Scholarships — What’s the Difference?

Scholarships and grants for college both represent “gift aid,” since the money generally does not have to be repaid. Dropping out of college or switching to part-time enrollment are a couple of exceptions that may require paying back a grant or scholarship.

The main difference between grants and scholarships is that grants tend to be based on financial need, whereas scholarships are more commonly awarded based on a student’s achievements or merit. Scholarships may also be offered to students of a specific ethnicity or group, such as Native Americans or the LGBT community.

The source of funding also tends to differ. Funds for college grants typically come from the federal and state government, whereas scholarships are usually offered through private companies, colleges and universities, non-profits, and other organizations.

Another distinction between grants vs. scholarships is the application process. To apply for grant opportunities, you generally just need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To apply for scholarships, you often need to fill out a separate application (which may require writing an essay) for each scholarship.


💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Types of Federal College Grants

Federal grants for students attending community college, career schools, and four-year colleges are offered through the U.S. Department of Education. Here is a list of federal grants for college students.

Pell Grants

The Pell Grant is the Department of Education’s largest grant program. Pell Grant funding changes from year to year, and is geared towards students who demonstrate significant financial need. The maximum Pell Grant total for the 2023-2024 award year is $7,395.

The amount an eligible student receives is calculated according to enrollment status, cost of attendance, Student Aid Index (SAI) (formerly called the Expected Family Contribution, or EFC), and duration of study.

It’s worth noting that the award amount for Pell Grants is not impacted by other forms of financial aid. Often, a Pell Grant is awarded in combination with other federal financial aid, such as work-study and subsidized student loans.

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

The FSEOG program is another grant for students with exceptional financial need to pay for college expenses. FSEOG awards range between $100 and $4,000 a year.

Individual grant totals are calculated by overall financial need, timing of the application, total financial aid, and funding availability within the college.

Though FSEOG is funded through the Department of Education, it is administered by participating schools — and not every college participates. Check with a college’s financial aid office to learn if FSEOG is an option for assistance.

Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants

This program has more specific criteria than financial need alone. Students may qualify for a grant if their parent or guardian died while serving in the U.S. armed forces in Iraq or Afghanistan after 9/11. To qualify, you must have been under 24 years old or enrolled in college at least part-time at the time of your parent’s or guardian’s death.

Additional requirements for the Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant include failing to qualify for a Pell Grant due to Expected Family Contribution/Student Aid Index but satisfying the remaining eligibility Pell Grant criteria.

Grant funding is equal to the maximum Pell Grant award for any given year. Thus, grants can be up to $7,395 for 2023-2024, depending on financial need and the cost of attendance at the applicant’s college.

TEACH Grants

The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant program offers awards up to $4,000 per academic year for students pursuing a career in teaching.

Compared to other federal grants for college, TEACH grants carry more stringent requirements. For instance, recipients must fulfill a service obligation of teaching in a high-need subject area at a school or educational service agency for at least four academic years within eight years of completing TEACH grant-funded studies.

Otherwise, the TEACH grant is converted into a direct unsubsidized loan which must be repaid in full with interest accrued from the date of the initial award.

To qualify for a TEACH grant, students must attend a participating school and achieve high academic performance (GPA of at least 3.25 or college admissions test scores above the 75th percentile). Additionally, recipients must partake in counseling sessions and sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve.

Applying for Federal College Grants

Students looking for federal grants for college can begin the process by filling out the FAFSA. The FAFSA considers factors like the student income and parental income and assets to calculate the SAI (formerly called the EFC), which is used by schools to determine how much money students are eligible to receive.

After completing the FAFSA, students will receive a financial aid package from each college they applied and have been accepted to. This includes a breakdown of any eligible financial assistance, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

Take note that students need to fill out the FAFSA every year they’re enrolled in college to be eligible for grant awards and other financial assistance.

Since some grants are awarded on a first-come-first-served basis, be sure to pay attention to FAFSA deadlines, and submit the form as early as possible.

Other College Grants for Students

In addition to federal grant programs, there are opportunities to get free money for college from state governments, nonprofits, and private organizations.

State Grants

There are state-level grants for students to consider too. For example, there are numerous California scholarship and grant opportunities to help students pay for school. Every year, the Cal Grant provides 41,000 awards to undergraduate, vocational, and teacher certification students.

Filling out and submitting the FAFSA may automatically make you eligible for certain state grants. In some cases, though, you might also have to apply to your state’s education department.

To find funding in any given state, you can use the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators online database .

Keep in mind that some state government scholarship and grant programs have different deadlines than FAFSA.

College Grants for Women

There are a variety of college grants geared specifically to women. Here are a couple grant programs women can apply to for college and graduate school.

•   Program for Continuing Education Grant : The Philanthropic Education Organization offers one-time need-based grants for women in the U.S. and Canada to put towards college and education-related expenses.

•   Career Development Grant : The American Association of University Women provides grants between $2,000 to $12,000 to female students pursuing an advanced degree or certificate.

Finding Additional Grants

In addition to state and federal grants or grants, private companies and nonprofits may also offer grants. Students may have to do a little leg work to find these opportunities, but a chance at free money for college can be worth a little time invested up front. Online databases like Scholarships.com have a variety of grant opportunities for students to peruse.


💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too. You can submit it as early as Oct. 1.

The Takeaway

College grants are a helpful way for eligible students to pay for school and reduce student debt. In 2022-2023, scholarships and grants were used by 76% of families and covered 29% of costs.

Even so, many students require additional financing to pay for college. If grants, other aid, and federal student loans are enough to cover the cost of your college education, you may want to consider applying for a private student loan. These are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Loan limits vary by lender, but you can often get up to the total cost of attendance, which is more than you can borrow from the federal government. Interest rates may be fixed or variable and are set by the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment plans and deferment or forbearance — that automatically come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

---

Photo credit: iStock/Deejpilot

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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College is expensive. In the 2022-23 academic year, tuition and fees averaged $39,400 for students at private universities — that’s $157,600 for all four years. Tuition and fees at public colleges were lower, but still steep — averaging $28,240 for out-of-state students and $10,950 for in-state students.

Keep in mind that these numbers don’t include all the other necessary expenses of college life, such as room and board, books, supplies, clothing, and entertainment. At the same time, it’s difficult for college students to earn a lot during these years, given the demands of school.

Fortunately, there are numerous options for financing the cost of higher education, including scholarships, loans, and part-time work. There are also ways to trim your expenses while you’re in college, which can mean borrowing less money, and owing less in loan repayments (and interest) down the line.

Saving Money as a College Student

Luckily, once you adopt a money-conscious mindset, you’ll likely find there are many ways to save money in college. Plus, building the habit of budgeting now can serve you well as you move on to life and enter the real world. Here are some tips for how to save money in college.

1. Take Advantage of Student Discounts

Lots of businesses and service providers offer special deals to students. You can buy clothing, shoes, and furniture for your dorm or apartment for less at certain retailers with a valid student ID.

Entertainment is another area where you can save. Some movie theaters offer student discounts at some locations or on certain days. Some museums and sports events offer discounted access to students as well. You may also find discounts on certain music and video streaming sites. And you can save on travel with discounts at certain car rental and car insurance companies, as well as on trains and buses.

💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs

2. Buy Your Books (and Other Necessities) Used

Renting or buying used textbooks is a classic way to save money in college. You can find used books at many campus bookstores and through online retailers.

Used books often come at a fraction of the price of a brand new book, and many are in perfectly good condition. Plus once you’re done, you can try to resell the book.

You can save by buying other items second-hand as well. You might try looking for used clothing and furniture at thrift stores, garage sales, estate sales, flea markets, or on sites like Craigslist, OfferUp, and Facebook Marketplace.

Recommended: 33 Ideas for Saving Money While Dorm Shopping

3. Cook Meals at Home

Food can eat up a big chunk of your college budget, since students with limited cooking skills and small kitchen spaces may be tempted to eat out for every meal. But restaurant tabs can add up quickly.

Shopping wisely for your own ingredients and making simple meals in your living space can help you save a lot of money — and leftovers from one home-cooked meal can be lunch the next day, for even more savings.

4. Serve as an R.A.

Becoming a resident assistant (R.A.), can not only be rewarding but also help you cut down on living expenses. R.A.s are a sort of big brother or sister in dorms, organizing social events, advising younger students, enforcing rules, and mediating disagreements. Many R.A.s receive free or discounted housing and meals, and some also get a stipend.

5. Cut Out the Extras

One of the best tips to save money in college is to look for areas in your budget where you can trim by choosing a less expensive option.

If you frequent coffee shops, for example, perhaps you can brew your own java a few days a week, or find a less fancy option with free refills.

Instead of always going out to bars with friends, maybe you can take turns hosting get-togethers in your on- or off-campus apartments. If you belong to a fancy gym, you might search for lower-cost options on campus, join a sports league, or jog/run outdoors.

Instead of a spring break trip to an all-inclusive resort a plane-ride away, consider a group camping trip or sharing a house at a nearby lake. Get creative — the trip will likely be just as fun.

6. Pay Your Bills on Time

When you pay all of your bills by the due date, you can avoid unnecessary fees and help keep interest from piling up. If you’re worried about forgetting, you may be able to set autopay through your credit card, the service provider itself, or your bank.

Staying on top of bills not only avoids added costs but may also help keep your credit report in good shape. That could help you qualify for better terms on loans and credit cards down the line.

7. Take Advantage of Family Discounts

You may have left home, but maybe don’t cut the cord completely just yet. Many phone and car insurance plans are cheaper if you sign up with family members, rather than as an individual. If your family is on board, this can be one of the easiest ways to go about saving money in college.

If you’re under age 26, you should be eligible to stay on your parents’ health insurance plan, which may be less expensive than purchasing your own. You might also see if your parents will unofficially keep you on various “family plans” by sharing their logins for things like video streaming services.

8. Sign up for Cash Back Credit Cards

If you’ve decided to use a credit card, you might as well earn some cashback while you’re at it. As long as you pay your bill in full each month to avoid fees and interest, you may benefit from a reward credit card. You could earn points that can be applied as a statement credit, sent to you in check form, or put toward merchandise or gift cards.

When signing up for a cashback credit card, look for one with a low or no annual fee that offers the highest amount of cashback possible. And remember, any benefits will likely evaporate if you do not pay your balance in full every single month.

9. Frequent the Library

Instead of purchasing books, look for them at your local or on-campus library. Your library may also offer magazines and movies so you don’t have to spend money on those, either. Many public libraries now offer digital loans you can download and enjoy instantly on your favorite device.

You might also consider using the library as a free and quiet place to study instead of spending money at the local coffee shop. To make your library experience even more enjoyable, invite friends to form a study group.

10. Give Up Your Car

If you live on campus, you may not actually need a car and all its associated monthly costs (insurance, repairs, gas, and parking, to name a few). Look into free campus shuttles and public transportation to get you where you need to go.

If you need to use a taxi or rideshare service, you can comparison shop to find the cheapest option, and if you’re looking to take a longer trip, split the cost of a rental car with friends.

11. Look Into Work-Study Options

Work-study is a need-based federal program that provides student-friendly, part-time jobs to help cover school expenses. As a bonus, the work experience may benefit you when it comes time to jump into the job market.

To apply for work-study, you must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and indicate that you would like to be considered for work-study. Selecting this option, however, doesn’t automatically mean that you will receive work-study as part of your financial aid package. Acceptance depends on a few factors, including when you apply (earlier is generally better), your level of financial need, and the school’s funding level.

12. Look for Discounted Banking Products

Some banks offer college savings and checking accounts that don’t charge the same types of fees or have the same balance requirements as normal accounts do.

It’s a good idea to shop around and look into different banks (including banks with local branches and online banks) and compare what kinds of benefits they are offering to college students before making your decision.

13. Take Advantage of Free Campus Activities

Colleges often host a number of different activities for students throughout the week. There might be dances, plays and musicals, sporting events and more, all for free.

By choosing these activities instead of going off-campus, you can save money without sacrificing on fun.

14. Stay Focused

Though college can be a lot of fun, you also need to keep your eye on the prize (graduation) and stay on top of your schoolwork.

Taking more than four years to graduate could blow your higher education budget and negatively impact your earning potential. Some hyper-focused students even graduate in fewer than four years.

Recommended: Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees

15. Buy in Bulk

This one requires a little price sleuthing, but for nonperishable items you use a lot of, you’ll typically save money buying in bulk. This is true whether you have access to a membership at a bulk goods store like Costco or Sam’s Club, or you’re choosing between package sizes at a superstore like Target or Walmart. If you can’t use or store an enormous quantity of, e.g. toilet paper, consider going shopping with a friend and splitting the goods.

16. Turn in the FAFSA Every Year

Every year, you need to fill out your FAFSA form to qualify for financial aid. If you don’t turn it in, you could be throwing away free money.

While in the past the form was long and somewhat complicated, a new, simplified FAFSA form is coming in December 2023 for the 2024-25 academic year. The application will be pared down to just 36 questions from 108. There will also be some changes in financial aid eligibility rules, making it easier for some families to qualify — so definitely don’t skip the FAFSA.

17. Sell Your Textbooks

Once you’ve completed your courses for the year, you can take the books you purchased and resell them to get some of your money back.

To get the best possible price, compare quotes from your campus bookstore against the going online sale rate. Websites like BookScouter help you compare prices before you list your books for sale.

18. Consider Printing Expenses

You may already pay for use of on-campus printers with your student fees. Don’t spend additional money on printers, ink, and paper if it’s cheaper to utilize the printing resources at the library or other places around your campus.

19. Look Into Local Restaurant Deals

To enjoy a nice meal out while saving money, keep your eye out for deals at local restaurants. Many establishments offer happy hour specials or special discount nights.

You may also be able to access valuable coupons by downloading the restaurant’s app, signing up for their emails, and/or filling out surveys printed at the bottom of your receipts. There are also sites that offer restaurant coupons, such as Restaurant.com.

20. Find the Free Food!

You can’t get cheaper than free. Departments and organizations on campus will often offer free food like pizza and sandwiches to entice students to attend their events.

Keep an eye out for signs around campus. You could score some free dinner and you might find some interesting people or a new hobby while you’re at it.

💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

Other Ways to Finance College

Saving can get you far. But you may still need help coming up with the full cost of attendance for college. Fortunately, by filling out the FAFSA, you will automatically be in the running for federal financial aid, which may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and subsidized federal loans.

It can also pay to research private scholarships opportunities online and apply for any you think you might qualify for. Though each award may be small, if you are able to get a few scholarships, it can add up to a significant sum.

You may then want to fill in any gaps in funding with unsubsidized federal loans and, if necessary, private student loans. Private student loans are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Loan limits vary by lender, but you can often get up to the full cost of attendance, which is more than you can borrow from the federal government. Interest rates may be fixed or variable and are set by the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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College is expensive. On top of tuition and room and board, you’ll also need to buy quite a few things to set up your dorm room – from power strips and lamps to bedding and decor. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on dorm room essentials without sacrificing on style, function, or comfort. What follows are 32 smart college shopping tips and tricks that will help you set up your room without breaking the bank.

Tips to Save Money Shopping for Dorm Room Essentials

If you are looking to save when it comes to college dorm shopping, here are some helpful tips.

1. Research Your Dorm

Before going dorm room shopping, look into how big your dorm room is and what furnishings are provided by the university. Then, you’ll have an idea of what you need to buy and can avoid spending money on things that you’ll have when you get to the dorm.


💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

2. Check Out the Dorm Room Rules

It’s also important to find out the rules for your dorm room. For instance, perhaps your college won’t allow you to have candles or incense burning in your room, or it won’t let you bring a microwave. You’ll know you don’t need to purchase these items because they are forbidden.

3. Don’t Buy Too Much

Dorm rooms are (often) tiny. When looking into how to shop for your college dorm, less is generally more. Avoid buying oversized items and don’t feel like you need to get every single item on those “college dorm essentials” lists.

Think of the things you already use in your daily life and use that as a guide for what you’ll need in college. If you find there is something you’re missing when you arrive, you can always pick it up after move-in day.

4. Create a College Dorm Checklist

Make a comprehensive list of what you need before you start shopping. When you’re in the store, don’t be tempted to spend just because something is cute or it seems like you’ll absolutely need it. You typically need much less than you think.

5. Take Inventory of What You Have

You may already own a bunch of things you need for your dorm room, such as a shower caddy or a small fan. Go around your room at home and take inventory of what you have so you can decide what to buy.

6. Assess the Laundry Situation

Before you purchase a laundry basket or bag, you may want to find out where the washing machines are located — are they in your dorm or across the quad? Based on the answer, you might choose a laundry bag over a basket or vice versa, and can avoid buying the wrong thing (and wasting money).

7. Use Coupons

Look for coupons in your local circulars as well as online when determining what to buy for college dorms. Check out coupon websites like RetailMeNot and Coupons.com, or use a browser extension like
Honey to snag the best deals.

8. Shop at Discount Stores

Why pay full price when you can go to a discount store and find exactly what you need for less? Check out places like Ross, HomeGoods, Marshalls, or Dollar Stores for deals on college shopping needs.

9. Look for All-in-One Sets

Complete sets — such as Bed-in-a-Bag, towel, dish, and toiletry sets — are often an excellent value compared to buying each item individually. Sets also make packing easier, since everything is essentially already packed. Just make sure you actually need everything (or most) of the items included in the set.

10. Sign Up for Target Circle

Another retailer that has a wide selection of items for dorm rooms is Target. People who sign up for their rewards program, Target Circle, can receive exclusive access to special discounts and promotions.

Recommended: How to Save Money in College – 20 Ways

11. Use Amazon Prime

Students can get a significant discount on an Amazon Prime membership, plus discounts on flights and free food delivery. You’ll also receive fast, free delivery on all your college dorm essentials.

12. Use a Cash-Back Credit Card

If shopping with a credit card, use one that offers cash-back. If you are searching for a credit card, try to find one that has no annual fee and a welcome bonus.

13. Don’t Buy the Cheapest Stuff

While it may be tempting to buy the cheapest dorm room items possible, buying flimsy things that will need to be replaced may not be cost-effective. Items will need to be sturdy enough to last you over the next four years or so. Even if you have to pay a little more up front, it’s going to be worth it if your stuff actually lasts until graduation.

14. Leave the Printer at Home

Some colleges offer free printing services as part of tuition. If that’s the case at your school, don’t worry about buying a printer.

15. Shop The Sales

Consider shopping when stores are running sales. This could be on shopping holidays like Labor Day and the Fourth of July, or in August when college kids are getting ready to head back to school.

16. Don’t Fall for the “Great for Dorms” Tags

Be wary of items labeled as ideal for dorms. These may be marked up and it may be possible to find a less-expensive counterpart that isn’t necessarily marketed for college dorm rooms.

17. Do Price Matching

Look into the prices of products at different stores to make sure you’re getting the best deal. If you find a lower price at another store, ask your preferred store if they will match the other deal. Many will.

18. Use Your College ID for Discounts

If you already have your student ID, you may be able to snag some bargains on college dorm essentials from some local stores. Keep your ID on you at all times when you’re out and about and shopping for the school year.

Recommended: 10 Money Management Tips for College Students

19. Create a Budget

Come up with a budget for your college dorm checklist and then stick to it. When you go shopping without a set college shopping budget, you could end up spending way too much.

20. Look for Hand-Me-Downs

Did your siblings go to college? How about your friends? They may have dorm room essentials they’re no longer using and would be happy to give them to you. Ask around and see if they have anything they’re willing to pass on before you spend money.

21. Check in With Your Roommate

If you coordinate with your roommate on things you need to buy, you can save money. For instance, maybe they’re willing to buy some cleaning supplies if you provide snacks or bring a vacuum.

Recommended: College Freshman Checklist for the Upcoming School Year

22. Try Thrift Stores

Check out your local thrift stores and hunt down bargains on dorm room essentials.

23. Buy on Facebook Marketplace

You can also find deals on Facebook Marketplace. Log on and search for deals near your home or college, or find sellers who are willing to ship your dorm room essentials to you.

24. Use Craigslist

When figuring out what to buy for college dorms, you might also check out Craigslist for local items for sale. Don’t be afraid to haggle to pay the prices you can actually afford for your college dorm stuff.

25. Shop with Cash Back Websites

Take a look at sites like Rakuten or Upromise that allow account holders to earn rewards on purchases. You can shop for dorm room items and earn cashback or other rewards on the items you were already planning to buy.

26. Use Gift Cards

Did you receive gift cards from family members and friends when you graduated from high school? Then put them towards your college dorm checklist so you don’t have to spend your own money on items.

Recommended: Top Gifts for College Students

27. Start a Registry

Your family and friends may want to contribute and purchase some of your dorm room essentials for you. Stores like Walmart, and Target make it easy to start a college dorm registry you can share with your loved ones.

28. Look for Free Shipping

Look for free shipping to avoid expensive shipping costs. If you’re going to college far away from home, double check that the stores you are ordering from offer free shipping to that location.

29. Wait to Shop

If you’re on the fence about some purchases, wait until you move into the dorm. This way you can avoid spending money on something you won’t actually use.

30. Rent Instead of Buying

Sometimes, colleges will offer you the chance to rent bigger ticket items, like a minifridge, for your dorm room. If you price it out, you may find this is cheaper than buying the item, especially if you split the rental cost with your roommate.

31. Shop With Friends

You might want to get a group of friends together to go shopping together. You can share tips and possibly get better deals by purchasing in bulk and splitting up what you buy.

32. Sign Up for Stores’ Email Lists

Stores send coupons, sale alerts, and more out to their mailing lists. Consider signing up for the mailing list for stores at which you plan to do a considerable amount of dorm room shopping.

33. Set Up Price Alerts

You can set up price alerts through tools like Droplist and CamelCamelCamel to find out when college dorm stuff is going on sale so you know when to purchase it.

Bonus Tip: Best Places to Buy College Stuff

When shopping for college dorm stuff, where you shop can have a big impact on how much you spend, whether you’re shopping online or in person. Here are a few stores that offer a variety of dorm room essentials, typically at competitive prices:

• Amazon

• Target

• Walmart

• Overstock

• Wayfair

• HomeGoods

• Marshalls

• TJ Maxx

• Ross

• The Container Store

• The Dollar Tree

• IKEA


💡 Quick Tip: Need a private student loan to cover your school bills? Because approval for a private student loan is based on creditworthiness, a cosigner may help a student get loan approval and a lower rate.

The Takeaway

Shopping for college dorm room essentials can feel overwhelming, but things like making a list, creating a budget, shopping online with free shipping, and taking advantage of student discounts can help make it more manageable, and more affordable.

Another way to help with college expenses is to take advantage of any financial aid you are eligible for. You apply for aid simply by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year. Your financial aid package may include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal loans, which can be used for tuition as well as other college expenses.

If you still have gaps in funding, you might also look into private student loans. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates may be higher than federal loans, but you can often borrow up to the full cost of attendance. Just keep in mind that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment plans and deferment or forbearance — that automatically come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

Photo credit: iStock/kali9

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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