The U.S. Public Interest Research Group’s Education Fund states that up to 65% of college students haven’t bought assigned literature due to high prices. With this list of cost-cutting tips, you will save on academic textbooks or learn how to get some for free. In this article, we will give useful tips for students who want to save money on textbooks.
1. Mind the ISBN
When shopping for used or library books, ensure you get the correct edition by comparing the assigned book’s ISBN, a 13-digit code above the bar code, to the one you need.
2. Do your research
From Amazon and Barnes & Noble to off-campus and on-campus bookshops, many places offer less expensive textbooks. With online platforms where you can buy college books https://booksrun.com/books/buy, you will save time and money. Just enter the ISBN into a search bar and find your volumes easily.
3. Look for better prices
The same textbook’s price can vary on different platforms and bookshops. Start by comparing the publisher’s website prices with those of other platforms and bookstores. You can also get an e-book version; typically, they cost half the price of the physical copy.
4. Rent a textbook
Another way to save money is renting. Most big online bookstores offer renting options. It may not be the best variant if you like to highlight text and take extensive notes.
5. Sell your books
After the semester ends, you can consider reselling books. Just remember that the price depends on a few factors, like the book’s edition or condition. For instance, if it has numerous highlights and handwritten notes, the price will be lower. And even if it’s in pristine condition, you typically won’t be able to sell it for more than half the price.
6. Go digital
Buying an e-textbook comes with a set of advantages. You buy it at half the cost and have all the assigned literature on your device. In addition, you can make notes and highlights.
7. Split the cost
Textbook sharing is one more way to save some cash. Although you have to coordinate the use, the pros of splitting outweigh the cons.
8. Find a book exchange
Book swapping is a common cost-saving practice. Team up with another student and save money by exchanging books.
9. Use OER
Open Educational Resources, or OERs, are online platforms that distribute textbooks and other academic materials gratis. For instance, projects like the Gutenberg Library have over 55,000 e-books available for free.
10. Explore granting and loaning options
If you have grants, scholarships, or student loans, you can use them to cover the cost of your textbooks.
It’s hardly surprising that textbooks are pricey. Luckily, numerous alternatives can cut the cost of your textbook list. Consider purchasing used textbooks or their digital versions and using OERs.
