It Cost More Than Just Tuition

Tuition and fees are the price you pay for taking classes at your college. This amount can change based on your academic program, the number of credit hours you take and whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student. Or, in the case of community colleges in Illinois, whether you qualify for in-district or out-of-district rates.

Students who attend a community college can probably live at home while they are attending school. Students who attend a four-year college or university may need to pay living expenses. Four-year institutions usually offer a variety of residential options and meal plans. The charges vary depending on what plan you choose. If you decide to live at home or off-campus, you’ll have your own rent and meal costs to consider in your college costs. 

You’ll need books and other course materials. The cost of yearly books and supplies for the average student ranges from $1,050** to $1,570.*** You may be able to lower these costs by buying used textbooks, renting them, or purchasing access to a digital textbook instead of a paper version.

These include laundry, cell phone bills, streaming subscriptions, eating out, entertainment, medications, and anything else you normally spend money on. Figure out what you spend and add that amount to your budget. For more tips on budgeting, visit Harper's Financial Wellness resources.

Whether you commute to campus or take the occasional trip home, you’ll have transportation costs. Of course, these will vary depending on how you travel and how often. You may be able to find student discounts on travel costs. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of gas, insurance, oil changes and maintenance if you own a car.