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While it can be a challenge to keep up with both work and school, getting a part-time job while in college can help you cover your expenses and gain valuable work experience at the same time. In addition, some employers may even offer to pay a portion of your college tuition as a part of their benefits package.

There are all kinds of jobs for college students — from on-campus jobs with regular hours to side gigs you can do in your spare time. While students often find work in the retail and service industry, it’s also worth exploring other avenues for employment, including office work and even jobs related to your field of study. Read on for a basic guide to finding a job that can help you pay for college.

Part-Time Jobs That Help Pay for College

Working part-time while you’re in college can help you pay for tuition and other expenses. These jobs typically offer flexible hours, allowing you to work around your class schedule.

You might start your search for jobs that help pay for college with businesses you already know and love. For example, you could see if your favorite cafe is hiring or ask about opportunities at the yoga studio you love. Even if they don’t have a paying position, some small businesses offer “service swaps” where you might be able to score free coffee, meals, or exercise classes for some light work. It pays to ask!

Here’s a look at other job opportunities that can help students earn money for college.


💡 Quick Tip: Make no payments on SoFi private student loans for six months after graduation.

On-Campus Jobs

Colleges and universities hire students for a variety of jobs on campus. Part-time on-campus jobs are not only convenient but typically provide flexibility so you can work around your class schedule. Plus, a lot of on-campus jobs can help you build relevant skills that will serve you after graduation.

The career center at your school will likely have lots of resources that can help you find employment on campus, including an online job board. Your school can also help you find a job campus through the federal work-study program. To see out if you’re eligible for work-study, which is a needs-based program, you need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.

Below is just a sampling of on-campus job options you might consider, plus what they pay, on average, per hour:

•   Administrative Assistant: $16.80 per hour

•   Teaching Assistant: $17.56 per hour

•   Research Assistant: $20.62 per hour

•   Fitness or Recreation Center Attendant: $14.10 per hour

•   Lifeguard: $16 per hour

•   Peer Tutor: $12.73 per hour

•   Library Assistant: $14.49 per hour

•   Campus tour guide: $14.81 per hour

Paid Internships

Your school’s career center may also be able to provide information about internship opportunities in your field of study. Some college internships provide college credits, which can help you pay for college by reducing your tuition bill. In other cases, internships are paid. On average, college interns in the U.S. earn $24.63 per hour.

Don’t want to work during the school year? Summer can be a great time to focus on a career-boosting internship without distracting you from your coursework. According to a 2023 Glassdoor report , some summer internships are paying as much as $9,064 a month.

Securing a paid internship tends to be competitive, so it can be wise to apply early and make sure your application materials are compelling and complete. Internships can provide valuable learning opportunities and some of the top-rated internships even offer the opportunity for future full-time employment.

Serving, Bartending, or other Service jobs

Many college students work part time in the service industry because the hours are flexible and you can often earn tips in addition to an hourly pay. This can be especially helpful during peak hours and holidays because your income could be higher than usual. Here’s a look at some service jobs and their average hourly pay and tips:

•   Barista: $14.86 per hour (plus $20 in tips per day)

•   Restaurant server: $16.06 per hour (plus $100 in tips per day)

•   Restaurant host: $14.79 per hour (plus $35.00 in tips per day)

•   Bartender: $15.97 per hour (plus $150 in tips per day)

Recommended: Guide to Paying for College

Retail jobs

If you’re looking for a part-time job that will help pay for college, you might consider working in a local boutique or other type of retail store. These jobs also provide you with valuable human and workplace skills that can be used later in your professional career.

A retail sales associate is typically required to set up store merchandise and assist customers with their shopping needs. You also might even be able to get employee discounts or earn a commission. The average retail sales associate salary in the U.S. is $14.90 an hour.

Tutoring

You’ve been hitting the books and now it’s time to put all of that newfound knowledge to good use. You may be paying for your education, but there are also people out there willing to pay you to share what you’ve learned, which can help make college more affordable. Consider tutoring other college students or younger students in your area of expertise. Rates will vary based on location, subject matter, and your experience level. On average, private tutors earn $25.12 an hour.

Virtual Assistant

Sometimes small businesses and entrepreneurs need someone who can answer their emails, perform odd jobs online, and otherwise provide administrative support virtually. You might look for these gigs online or through your school’s career development office. Before you take on a role, it’s important to know what’s expected: Are they looking for someone to be available during specific hours or could you get everything done on your own time?

On average, a virtual assistant makes $19.19 an hour.

Recommended: 3 Summer Jobs Ideas for College Students

Babysitting or Caregiving

Babysitting can be another job option to help pay for college if you’re looking for flexibility. You can schedule jobs for weekends or nights if you’re worried about work conflicting with your school schedule. As a bonus, you may be able to squeeze in some studying while the little ones are asleep. On average, part-time college nanny jobs pay $25 an hour.

Keep in mind that caregiving isn’t just limited to little kids. You may find meaningful roles working with elderly or ill people who need help, either with day-to-day tasks or with errand running, housekeeping, or even just keeping someone company while they shop. On average, a part-time caregiver earns $15 an hour.

Dog Walking

Having flexibility during the day can mean everything for people who work 9 to 5 and need someone to care for Fido. Consider working for a walking service rather than striking it out on your own: It may provide guaranteed hours or jobs, so you can get to know the pooches you work with. The average salary for a dog walker in the U.S. earns $17 per hour.

Ridesharing or Delivery Driving

Driving for a ride-sharing or delivery service can be a good option during college, since you can generally set your own hours and fit the job into your schedule. How much you could make will depend on your location and the times you’re available to drive. Many Uber drivers make between $15 and $25 per hour, while the average hourly wage for food delivery drivers nationwide is $19/hour.

It can also be helpful to talk to locals to get the lay of the land — national earnings surveys may be very different from your local area, and it can be helpful to anticipate just how much demand there might be before you sign on.

Recommended: 11 Ways to Make Money While You Drive

Freelance or Start a Side Hustle

If you have a sought-after skill or talent, such as writing, website design, photography, or coding, you might consider starting your own freelance business or side hustle. You can advertise your skills on a freelance platform like Fiverr or Upwork. Or, you could solicit clients in your community. For example, you might be able to build a website for a local small business or get hired to manage an off-campus store’s online brand and marketing.

Consider Companies That Help Pay Your Tuition

Part-time jobs can be one option to help you pay for college, but what if you can find a job that not only pays you a salary but also pays for tuition? There are some major companies that offer stipends or reimbursements toward college tuition or expenses like books, even for part-time employees.

Employers generally offer tuition assistance in one of three ways:

•   Tuition reimbursement Here, the company reimburses you for tuition you’ve paid. There may be a tuition cap and/or a requirement to work a certain number of hours or months before the benefit kicks in.

•   Direct payment Some employers will pay eligible college costs directly to the school. In some cases, they only partner with certain schools.

•   Scholarships Some employers offer education scholarships to employees for a set amount of money. As with other types of scholarships, you typically need to submit an application for the award and may also be required to maintain a certain GPA.

Here are some national companies that have well-publicized tuition assistance policies:

Chipotle

At Chipotle , tuition reimbursement (up to $5,250 each year) is available for both part-time and full-time employees. They also offer a Debt-Free Degree program, which covers the full cost of a four-year degree at one of 10 universities. Typically, employees must work at least 15 hours a week for four months to qualify for tuition benefits.

Smuckers

Smucker’s helps employees further their knowledge and skills by reimbursing them for some of the costs of qualifying continued and/or higher education. The company also offers a scholarship program for children of employees.

Publix

At Publix , associates with 90 days of continuous service who work an average of 10 hours a week are eligible to participate in the company’s tuition reimbursement program. The program covers graduate and undergraduate degree coursework, as well as some individual courses, online programs, and technical training.

Starbucks

Starbucks is often featured on these lists for a reason: They partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to create the Starbucks College Achievement Plan which offers 100% tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University’s online program. All employees eligible for benefits (this includes part-time employees) may take advantage of this program.

If an employee doesn’t qualify for admission to ASU, they can take part in the Pathway to Admission program, which will help them qualify for admission, tuition-free.

UPS

UPS offers a tuition assistance program at most locations in the U.S. Through their “Earn and Learn” program, you can receive up to $5,250 per calendar year, with a lifetime maximum of $25,000. There are no course or subject restrictions.

Walmart

Walmart will pay 100% of tuition and books for an associate or bachelor’s degree program through several online accredited universities. This benefit is available to hourly part-time and full-time associates without a prior bachelor’s degree starting on day one.

Amazon

Amazon offers tuition assistance for employees seeking a Bachelor’s degree, a high school GED, or English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) proficiency certification. You’re eligible for the program after 90 days of employment for as many years as you work in a regular, full-time role at Amazon.

Recommended: Finding Jobs That Pay Off Student Loans

Think About Your First Job Out Of School

Another benefit of finding a job that helps pay for college: You can figure out what you do (and don’t) want to do for a living. It can also be helpful to assess certain job paths, including how much they may pay entry-level employees. While there are always lists of most and least lucrative majors, the reality is that your major doesn’t necessarily determine your career. Talk to alums and people a few years out of school and have them give you the lowdown on their job path.

When looking for your first full-time job out of college, it’s also important to consider not just your salary, but what benefits may come into play. For example, many companies now offer employees assistance in paying off student loans. How it works varies by company, but the typical plan offers matching funds or a predetermined recurring monthly payment towards your loan. Usually, there’s a maximum dollar amount you can receive and some employers require a minimum amount of time on the job.


💡 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

The combination of scholarships, student loans, and a part-time job can help you cover the cost of going to college for four (or more) years. A part-time job will not only help you earn some money, but it could also help boost your resume. In addition, some companies offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for part- or full-time employees pursuing higher education. These programs may have specific requirements, such as attending a certain school or working a set number of hours per week, so be sure you understand the requirements.

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.

FAQ

How do you ask a company if they offer tuition reimbursement?

To find out if a company offers education benefits like tuition assistance, you can talk to your manager or HR representative (if you already work there). If you’re in the interviewing process, you can ask the recruiter or hiring manager. Or, you can check the company’s website (often they will describe their benefits, including who is eligible and any other stipulations).

What are the disadvantages of tuition reimbursement?

One disadvantage of tuition reimbursement is that you typically need to pay for your classes upfront, then submit the bill to your company for reimbursement. Some tuition reimbursement programs also have strict requirements and limitations, such as a cap on the amount of money that can be reimbursed, or only covering certain types of courses or degrees.

Also keep in mind that balancing work and courses can also be challenging for some employees to manage successfully.

Why would a company offer generous tuition reimbursement?

Many companies offer generous tuition assistance programs in order to attract, develop, and retain high-performing employees.

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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 comes with a lot of expenses. On top of tuition, fees, books, and housing, you might also want to occasionally go out and have fun. Maybe you want to go shopping, see a movie, or meet friends for lunch or dinner. That’s not always easy on a student budget. Fortunately, there are widely available deals and discounts designed just for college students. Here’s where you can find them.

Major Retailers

1. Amazon

Amazon Prime Student gives you six free months of Amazon Prime, and after that it’s $7.49 per month (about half regular price). Plus, you’ll receive perks like free food delivery, 10% off flights and hotels, and one month free of homework help. You can cancel at any time.

2. Sam’s Club

Sam’s Club offers special membership pricing to college students through UNiDAYS , a site that verifies student status and offers exclusive student deals (sign-up is free). Once you register with UNiDAYS, you can get $40 off a Sam’s Club Plus Membership or 30% off a Club Membership. You’ll also qualify to get a $45 eGift Card when you spend $45.

💡 Quick Tip: Ready to refinance your student loan? With SoFi’s no-fee loans, you could save thousands.

3. Target

Target Circle’s College Student Appreciation program offers exclusive perks and discounts to students, which could come in handy when you’re shopping for your dorm room. To access deals, like 15% off your purchase, you need to join Target Circle for free, verify your student status (by uploading a student ID, class schedule, or tuition receipt), then check back later for offers.

4. Costco

A Costco membership can also help make college more affordable. College students who join Costco as a new Gold Star Member through UNiDAYS can receive a $30 Digital Costco Shop Card.

Technology

5. Apple

Keep this in mind when you’re preparing for college: Apple offers special pricing for current and recently accepted college students (along with their parents). For example, you can get a 13” macbook air with the M2 chip for $999 (normally $1099) or an iPad air for $549 (normally $599).

6. Microsoft

Students (as well as parents and teachers) can save up to 10% off eligible computers and accessories with Microsoft’s student discount . You also get Office 365 and access to Teams for free.

7. Dell

Dell offers exclusive discounts on laptops, monitors, and accessories to students with a valid academic email address (such as one ending in .edu). Savings vary depending on the product, but currently you can save $300.00 (20%) on an XPS 15 Laptop.

8. Lenovo

College students get an extra 5% off their tech purchases at Lenovo . Incoming students can also access the deal by providing a letter of acceptance. You simply need to verify your student status through ID.me during checkout.

9. Adobe

Adobe Creative Cloud for Students allows you to get an All Apps plan for $19.99 a month for the first year, and $29.99 per month after that (it’s normally $54.99 per month). To get the deal, you need to provide a school-issued email address during purchase so you can be instantly verified.

Clothes

10. Aeropostale

Students can benefit from an extra 15% off at Aeropostale . To take advantage of the deal, you’ll simply need to register and verify your student status with UNiDAYS.

11. J.Crew

J.Crew gives students (and teachers) 15% off purchases when they present a valid college ID at checkout. The discount can be used up to four times a month.

12. Hanes

Need some basics, like tees or undergarments? Hanes offers students 10% off online purchases. To score your discount, you need to verify your student status through ID.me and get a promo code.

13. The North Face

The North Face gives students a 10% discount code to use at full-price locations (not factory stores), as well as online. You can redeem one code every 30 days.

14. Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Hilfiger offers students 15% off online or in-store. First, you have to create or log in to your ID.me account.

15. Levi’s

Levi’s offers students 15% off online purchases after you verify your student status on the site.

16. Club Monaco

Students who are Club Monaco fans can get 15% off online and in-store. Simply register for an account with your .edu email address and a 15% off discount will automatically apply to your cart. If you’re shopping in-store, just present a valid student ID at the register.

17. Docker’s

Docker’s offers students a generous 25% off all purchases made online. You simply need to verify your student status through the site.

18. Outdoor Voices

Students shopping at Outdoor Voices can score 20% off through Student Beans (a site similar to UniDAYS that helps verify student status and offers discounts to partner stores). Once you register with Student Beans (which is free), you’ll get a discount code that you can use at checkout.

19. Champion

Champion offers 10% off to actively enrolled students. You simply need to verify your student status through ID.me to get the discount code.

Restaurants

20. McDonald’s

Right now, you can get a free Cheeseburger, Mayo Chicken, or McFlurry® Original when you buy any Extra Value or Wrap Meal and show your valid student or Student Beans ID.

21. Chick-fil-A

Student discounts vary by location, but many Chick-fil-As offer students a free drink with any purchase.

22. Dunkin’

Dunkin’ offers a 10% off student discount at participating locations. To claim the deal, simply show your student ID to your cashier.

23. Arby’s

You can save 10% on your Arby’s meal when you show your student ID at participating locations.

24. Buffalo Wild Wings

Want to catch the game and eat some wings with friends? Students can score 10% off at many Buffalo Wild Wings locations.

25. Waffle House

Looking for a late-night meal? Students can enjoy a 10% discount at participating Waffle Houses.

26. IHOP

If you don’t have a Waffle House nearby, many IHOP locations also offer 10% off for students.

27. Qdoba

Qdoba has two discount options for students at most locations: either a free drink with your purchase or a burrito meal for just $5.

28. Taco Bell

Craving a Crunchwrap Supreme? You can get a 10% student discount at participating Taco Bells.

Recommended: A Guide to Making Friends in College

Travel & Transportation

29. Greyhound

Through Student Advantage , Greyhound offers 10% off any fare. The Student Advantage card costs $30 a year and offers students — and parents — a wide range of discounts.

30. Amtrak

Students between the ages of 17 and 24 can travel by Amtrak train for 15% off when booking at least one day in advance.

31. United Airlines

United Airlines offers a 5% flight discount to any travelers who are 18 to 23 years old. To get the deal, you need to book through the United app.

32. Hotels.com

Through UNiDAYS, you can snag steep discounts at hotels.com , such as 35% Off last-minute hotel bookings and up to 40% off the site’s Weekend Getaway Deals.

33. FlixBus

You can get 15% off Flixbus tickets with Student Beans. Simply use your FlixBus student discount code at checkout.

34. Hertz

Hertz offers students 21 and older who have had a driver’s license for at least one year, 15% off cars and 20% off vans.

35. Budget Truck Rentals

Budget Truck Rentals offers students 20% off local moves and 15% off one-way moves any day of the week. Use the discount code TRUKU.

36. Penske

Penske offers college students a 10% discount on all truck rentals and unlimited miles on one-way moving truck rentals. Simply use the discount code STUDENT at checkout. You’ll need to provide a college ID or proof of enrollment status at pickup to receive the discount.

37. Red Coach

RedCoach offers high school, college, and graduate students up to 10% off tickets. To get the discount, check the student option at checkout then show your student ID card to the driver along with your ticket.

Recommended: College Move-In Day Tips for Parents

Entertainment

38. AMC

Students get a lower ticket price at select AMC theaters every day. Just bring your photo student ID (and maybe some extra money for popcorn).

39. Cinemark

Student discounts at Cinemark vary by location and time of day, so check with the local box office to see what kind of deal you can snag.

40. Apple Streaming

Apple’s Student Music plan is $5.99 per month for up to 48 months (normally $10.99 per month). You also get Apple TV+ (usually $6.99) free.

41. Hulu

Hulu offers students its ad-supported plan for just $1.99 a month (a 75% discount). If you’re interested in a bundle, check out the deal below.

42. Spotify Bundle

As a student, you can get Spotify Premium and Hulu (with ads) for just $4.99 per month. Spotify Premium normally costs $9.99 per month and Hulu (with ads) is $7.99 a month, so you can snag a monthly savings of $12.99 for as long as you’re going to college.

43. The Washington Post

The Washington Post has a digital all-access student subscription plan for just $1 every four weeks.

44. Paramount+

As a student, you can get a Paramount+ Essential monthly plan for just $4.50 per month (25% off). You can cancel anytime.

45. YouTube Premium

YouTube Premium (which allows you to enjoy YouTube and YouTube Music ad⁠-⁠free) is available to students at a discounted rate of $7.99 a month, after a free one-month trial. You can cancel at any time.

46. The Economist

The Economist offers students an annual digital subscription for a steep 75% off. You can get the Economist Espresso for $19.75 a year, or the Economist Digital for $52.25.

💡 Quick Tip: Trying to figure out how to budget towards your current or future loan payments? This student loan calculator estimates how much you’ll be paying each month so you can better prepare for your upcoming bills.

Home Goods

47. Ghost Bed

As a student or teacher, you can get 50% off your entire order at GhostBed . To take advantage of the deal, just click on the ID.me button and then “Student ID” to sign up and get verified.

48. Mattress Firm

After verifying your student status through ID.me, Mattress Firm will give you a single-use coupon code that can be used in-store or online. You get an extra 20% off select purchases or an extra 10% off Purple with the code.

49. Purple

You can also get a 10% discount directly from Purple . Once you verify your eligibility, you’ll be emailed a coupon for 10% off your order.

50. Helix

You can get a discount code for 15% off a mattress at Helix through UNiDAYS.

51. Puffy

Puffy offers a generous student and educator discount — $1,425 off any Puffy mattress.

52. Brooklyn Bedding

Brooklyn Bedding offers a 30% discount and free shipping to students. You simply need to verify your eligibility through ID.me.

The Takeaway

Student discounts can help you save on everything from food and clothing to electronics and entertainment. Even with these deals, however, you may still need help covering your college expenses.

If you completed the FAFSA and didn’t get enough financial aid to pay all of your school bills, keep in mind that you may be able to get a private student loan to help fill in any gaps. Unlike federal student loans, which have strict application deadlines, you can apply for private student loans at any time — including mid-semester.

Private student loans also allow you to borrow up to 100% of the school-certified cost of attendance. Just keep in mind that private student loans don’t offer the borrower protections — like income-driven repayment plans and deferment or forbearance — that 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.

FAQ

How many times can you use a student discount?

It depends on the company. Some retailers and restaurants allow you to use your student discount once per visit or purchase; others limit you to a certain number of times per month or year.

How much is the average student discount?

Student deals typically give you 10% to 15% off, though you may find some discounts for 50% off or even higher. In some cases, a student discount may come with restrictions, such as only being able to use it on full-price merchandise. So it’s always a good idea to compare your student discount to any other available deals and sales.

Do student discounts only apply to college students?

Typically, student discounts only apply to college and graduate students. In some cases, high school students can get deals if they have an email that ends in .edu. The colleges and programs that retailers recognize can vary, but you can expect most major colleges and universities to be eligible.

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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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After paying for tuition, fees, and housing, you may think you’ve got the cost of college covered. Not so fast. There is a hidden additional expense students face soon after they arrive on campus — the textbooks, online access codes, and supplies required for each class.

Despite increased use of e-books, the cost of course materials — necessary to be students in class — remains steep. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average annual cost of textbooks at a four-year public college is $1,226. If you complete your degree in four years, textbooks can add nearly $5,000 to your overall education expenses.

Fortunately, there are ways to pay for college books, including grants, scholarships, and student loans. You may also be able to get some of your textbooks on the cheap — even free. Here’s what you need to know.

How Much Do College Textbooks Cost?

If you’re wondering how much college books cost, here’s a closer look. Hard copy college textbooks can run as much as $400, with an average price falling somewhere between $80 and $150. You may need more than one book for each class, plus other supplies and materials, which can all add up.

The average college student spends more than $1,200 annually on textbooks and supplies for classes each year. That’s about 39% of tuition in a community college or 14% in a public four-year college.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, prices for college textbooks increased by 7% between 2020 and 2023, which is faster than tuition inflation (which was 4.7%).

Why are textbooks so pricey? One reason is that only a few publishers control the industry. Almost 80% of the textbooks industry in the U.S. is dominated by five publishers. This lack of competition allows publishers to command steep prices. Publishers also know they have a captive audience — textbooks are a college essential so students are forced to pay whatever price the market serves up.

While digital books typically cost less than hardcovers, that’s not always the case with college textbooks. Some schools have online access agreements or contracts with publishers. This means that students must purchase a code to access all of their course materials online, typically at full price. Digital textbooks also eliminate some of the ways students can save money on print versions, like sharing, borrowing, or buying used materials.


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

Grants and Scholarships That Pay for College Textbooks

There are a number of private scholarships and grants designed specifically to help pay for college books. You can search for book scholarships using online tools like FastWeb and Scholarships.com . You may also want to check out these book-specific scholarship opportunities:

•   BookScouter Every quarter, BookScouter awards $500 to a student to be used towards purchasing their textbooks. To apply, you need to fill out a questionnaire and record a short video.

•   Book Lover’s Scholarship. Bold.org offers $500 to support students who love reading books and believe in the power of reading to transform their lives. To apply, you need to tell them: If you could have everyone in the world read one book, what book would you choose and why.

•   Wilhelmina Foundation The Wilhelmina Foundation’s Textbook Scholarship offers $500 to qualifying students throughout the state of Florida to help them pay for college books.

•   Carl A. Scott Book Scholarship Every year, the Carl A. Scott Memorial Fund awards two $500 scholarships — one to a student pursuing a bachelor’s of social work, and the other to a student obtaining a master of social work degree.

Recommended: Finding Free Money for College

11 Tips to Spend Less on College Textbooks

These tips can help you keep up with your studies without breaking the bank.

1. Split the Cost with a Classmate

When thinking about how to pay for college textbooks, you might consider splitting the cost of books with a classmate to cut down on textbook expenses. While it may seem inconvenient, it could pay off.

There are a few ways to make sharing a textbook work. Try alternating study days so you each have the time you need to get your work done. Or, alternate highlighter colors to keep your notes straight. And as an added bonus, you have a built-in study buddy.

2. Buy Used Books

Sometimes on- and off-campus books stores will sell used copies of textbooks. You can also find used textbooks online at popular sites like Chegg , Abebooks , and Amazon. While you can’t examine the book before you buy online, you can often select the book’s condition (for example, Like New, Very Good, Good, and Acceptable).

When searching for used books, it’s important to make sure the book is the correct edition. The easiest way to confirm this is by using the book’s ISBN (a code that identifies specific book editions) to search.

Recommended: College Freshman Checklist for the Upcoming School Year

3. Rent Instead of Buy

In some cases, you may not need a particular text book after the semester ends. In those instances, you might consider renting. On average, renting textbooks can save you 50% compared to buying a new, printed textbook.

Some campus bookstores now offer the option of renting textbooks for a semester. Typically, you rent the book at the start of the semester and return it the first business day after finals. You can also rent textbooks through a number of online companies, including Chegg, CampusBooks , eCampus.com , and ValoreBooks . It can be a good idea to shop around and compare rental costs.

4. Get the E-Book

Printing costs are one reason for expensive textbooks. But if you don’t need to have a physical copy, and you’re not required to buy an access code through the school, you could save on college books by going with the e-book version. You can read it anywhere — your computer, tablet, or phone. Going digital can be particularly advantageous for textbooks you will refer to in the future, since the electronic version will typically include free updates.

You can buy e-textbooks from a number of online outlets, including Amazon, BooksRun , and Chegg.

5. Find a Book Swap

Some schools have clubs or organizations that run book swaps. This is where you turn in a book you’re not using to get one you need in return. While not all campuses and colleges have this available, it could be worth looking into.

You might also check with upperclassmen to see if they might be willing to sell you a textbook or even let you borrow it for the semester.

6. Settle for an Older Version

Many textbooks have new versions released every year or every few years. Sometimes professors request you have the newest version available, but not always. Check with your professor to see if an older issue is acceptable for the course.

Recommended: 10 Money Management Tips for College Students

7. Try the Library

Some classes don’t rely on books as much as others. If you know that a class will be light on the required reading, you can save on college textbooks by heading to the library. Be mindful that other students in the class might already have the same idea as you. In that case, it’s a gamble to see if you can take out a book that may not be available.

Some schools have reserve copies of textbooks in the library that you can borrow for a specific amount of time. This could mean you can get your assigned reading done without purchasing the book. But know that these library textbooks usually have some borrowing restrictions, so you may need to plan ahead.

Recommended: How to Save Money in College — 20 Ways

8. Tap into Student Loans

When you take out student loans, you can typically use that money to cover the cost of attendance, which includes not only tuition and fees but also other expenses necessary to earn your degree, like textbooks. If you have scholarships and grants, they can typically also go toward your textbooks.

If you aren’t eligible for federal financial aid or have reached the borrowing maximum for federal loans, an in-school private student loan can be a useful alternative.

With private loans, you can borrow up to 100% of the school-certified cost of attendance, and the loans can be used for textbooks, supplies, and other college expenses. Just keep in mind that private student loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-driven repayment plans and deferment or forbearance — that come with federal student loans.


💡 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.

9. Sell Old Textbooks

The cost of college textbooks is an unavoidable expense, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get some of your money back.

You may be able to sell textbooks you’re finished with back to the bookstore where you bought them for immediate cash. Or, you might be able to sell them online at sites like Amazon, BooksRun,
CheapestTextbooks , BookScouter , or Chegg. When you sell online, the process is often as simple as entering your book information, accepting an offer, sending it in, and getting paid.

If you know students who are going to take the same class you just took, you might offer to sell your textbooks to them for less than they would pay for a used book at the bookstore but more than you would get in a buyback, for a win-win.

10. Use Open Educational Resources (OERs)

Open educational resources (OERs) are course materials available for free online that can be downloaded and shared. A growing number of universities are allowing their faculty to adopt OER course materials to help reduce costs for students. You can find these free educational materials at OERCommons .

There are also other sites that offer free access to textbooks, including Project Gutenberg and OpenStax from Rice University.

11. Use Textbook Price Comparison Sites

These days, it’s fairly easy to compare textbook prices before you buy to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Some comparison sites to check out:

•   Amazon Offering one of the largest selections of college textbooks, you can access a large number of sellers on Amazon.

•   AbeBooks This website has a deep database of textbook sellers (including local sellers) to help you find the lowest available price.

•   BigWords This is a search engine designed to help you find the best prices and shipping costs on college textbooks.

•   Bookscouter This site compares a large number of textbook websites to help you find the best price to both buy and sell your textbooks.

•   CheapestTextbooks This is a free price comparison page for buying, renting and selling textbooks. They also price-compare e-books for rent or purchase.

•   SlugBooks Here, you can search by author and title or ISBN to find the best online deal for textbooks.

The Takeaway

Depending on your class needs and personal preference, you may be able to significantly cut the cost of college textbooks by heading to the library or opting for an e-book, a textbook rental, or a used copy of the book.

In addition, you might seek out and apply for a book scholarship to help cover some of your textbook expenses. If you have any type of student loan and can use it to make your textbook purchases, those funds can also be a big help.

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.

FAQ

What percent of college students can’t afford textbooks?

Around one in four college students decide not to acquire at least one course material, according to a 2023 survey from the National Association of College Stores. According to the Education Data Initiative:

•   25% of students say they have worked extra hours to pay for their books and materials

•   11% of student report skipping meals in order to afford books and course materials

•   One in five students say that the cost of books and materials directly influences their decision on what classes to take

How much should I budget for textbooks?

The average full-time, in-state undergraduate student at a four-year public university pays $1,226 for books and supplies in one academic year.

How do I use my financial aid to pay for textbooks?

Typically, financial aid money is sent directly to the school. If you have money leftover after covering tuition, fees, and other school charges, the school will make the money available to you to pay for textbooks no later than the seventh day of the term.

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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.

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Saving for retirement is important. But it can be challenging to put away money for the future when you have a lot of right-now financial commitments to take care of. Almost half of all American households report they have no retirement account savings, according to the Federal Reserve’s latest Survey of Consumer Finances.

However, it’s better to start with a small amount of savings than not to save at all. And the sooner you begin, the more time your savings will have to grow. One way to help kickstart retirement savings is with an IRA, a type of account designed specifically to help you save for retirement.

If you’re wondering how to fund an IRA, read on to find out about some potential methods that could help you contribute to an IRA.

Before You Start, Know Your Contribution Limits

First things first, it’s important to be aware that IRAs have contribution limits set by the IRS, and those limits often change annually. In 2024, you can contribute up to $7,000 in an IRA, or up to $8,000 if you’re 50 or older.

IRAs also come with potential tax benefits, which vary depending on the type of IRA you have. With a traditional IRA, contributions may be tax-deductible. For instance, if you and your spouse don’t have access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, you can deduct the full amount contributed to a traditional IRA on your tax return in the year you make the contribution, regardless of your income.

And, even if you or your spouse is covered by an employer-sponsored retirement plan, the IRS still allows you to deduct a portion of your contribution.

With a Roth IRA, the contributions are made with after-tax money, which means they are not tax deductible. You can only fund a Roth IRA in years when your income falls below a certain limit.

In 2024, if you’re married and filing jointly, you can contribute the full amount to your Roth IRA if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is less than $230,000. If your MAGI is between $230,000 and $240,000, you can contribute a reduced amount, and your income is over $240,000, you can’t contribute to a Roth. Those who are single can contribute the full amount if their MAGI is below $146,000, or a reduced amount if it’s between $146,000 and $161,000. They cannot contribute at all if their MAGI is more than $161,000.

💡 Quick Tip: Did you know that opening a brokerage account typically doesn’t come with any setup costs? Often, the only requirement to open a brokerage account — aside from providing personal details — is making an initial deposit.

6 Ways You Can Fund an IRA

After you decide which type of IRA is right for you, your next step is to contribute to it. Here are some suggestions for how to fund an IRA.

1. Use Your Tax Refund

If you expect to get a tax refund, consider using that money to open an IRA, or to contribute to your IRA if you already have one. If you don’t want to contribute the entire refund, you could contribute a portion of it. Minimum amounts to open an IRA vary by institution, so do a bit of research to find the right account for the amount of money you currently have.

2. Take Advantage of Tax Deductions

You may be able to get a bigger tax refund next year by deducting your contributions to a traditional IRA this year, as long as you are eligible for the deduction. You can then use the bigger refund to fund your IRA next year.

3. Contribute “New” Money

If you get a raise or a bonus at work, or if a relative gives you money for your birthday, consider contributing all or part of it to your IRA. Just be sure to stay below the annual IRA contribution limit throughout the course of the year.

4. Make Small Monthly Contributions

You can contribute to your IRA throughout the year so if you open an account with, say, $100 (as mentioned earlier, how much you need to open an IRA depends on the institution), you can then make a monthly contribution to the account. Even if you put only $50 a month into the account, by the end of the year you would have $600. Increase that monthly contribution to $100, and you’re up to $1,200.

5. Set Up Automatic Contributions

Automating your contributions will allow you to save for retirement without thinking about it. You can even set up your automatic contribution so that it comes out of your bank account on payday. That can make it easier to put away funds for retirement. After all, you won’t be tempted to spend money that you don’t actually see in your bank account.

6. Roll Over Your 401(k) When You Leave a Job

When you change jobs, you generally have three options for your old 401(k). You could leave it with your old employer, roll it over to your new 401(k) if that’s available to you, or rollover your 401(k) into an IRA account.

You may want to review the fees associated with your 401(k) in order to understand what you are paying by leaving it with your old plan or rolling it over into your new 401(k).

Possible benefits of rolling your old 401(k) over to an IRA may be things like lower fees, expanding your choice of investment options, or a managed solution that invests your money for you based on your goals and risk tolerance.

The Takeaway

If you haven’t started saving for retirement, or if you haven’t been saving enough, it’s not too late to begin. No matter what stage of your life you’re in, you can create a plan to help you achieve your retirement goals, which could include contributing to an IRA.

You can fund an IRA by using your tax refund, making contributions automatic, or contributing a bonus, raise, or monetary gift you receive. No matter how you choose to contribute, or how much you contribute, the important thing is to get started with retirement saving to help make your future more secure.

Ready to invest for your retirement? It’s easy to get started when you open a traditional or Roth IRA with SoFi. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).

FAQ

How can I put money into my IRA?

There are many different ways to fund an IRA. For instance, if you get a tax refund, you could contribute that money to your IRA. You can also contribute funds from a bonus or raise you might get at work, or from birthday or holiday money from a relative. In addition, you can set up automatic contributions so that a certain amount of money goes directly from your bank account to your IRA on payday. That way, you won’t be tempted to spend it.

Can I contribute to an IRA on my own?

Yes. As long as you have earned income, you can open and fund a traditional or Roth IRA. This is true even if you have a 401(k) at work. There is a limit to the amount you can contribute to an IRA, however, which is $7,000 (or $8,000 if you are 50 or older) in 2024.

What is the best way to fund a traditional IRA?

One of the best ways to fund a traditional IRA is to use your tax refund. This is “found” money, rather than money you’re taking out of your bank account, so if you contribute it to your IRA you likely won’t even miss it. Also,consider this: By making a contribution to your traditional IRA, you may be able to deduct it from your taxes, which means you might get an even bigger refund next time around. And then you can use that bigger refund to fund your IRA next year.

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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.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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.

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