10 Ways to Save Money on College Textbooks

It’s no secret that college textbooks are expensive. According to the Education Data Initiative research, an average student spends between $628 and $1,200 annually on college textbooks. Moreover, 25% of the students participating in this research said they worked extra hours to pay for their textbooks, 11% sacrificed meals to afford them, and 66% skipped buying some textbooks at some point because of their high price.

In light of these staggering numbers, you’re probably wondering if there is a way to make your textbooks more affordable and accessible. The good news is – yes, there are many ways to reduce costs regarding textbooks. To help you, we’ll show you how to save money on college textbooks.

1. Consult with your professors or former students

Start your textbook search by reaching out to your professors or connecting with former students who have taken the same course. By doing so, you can gain valuable insights into which books included in the syllabus are essential and which might be optional or reference books. Also, you can find out if some of the textbooks are available in digital format or if there are some older editions you can use. This simple step can help you prioritize your purchases and avoid unnecessary expenses.

2. Stay away from the campus bookstore

The campus bookstore may seem like the most convenient option due to its location and the instant access it offers to all the materials you need. But this convenience comes with a higher price tag. So, instead of heading straight to your campus bookstore and purchasing all the textbooks you need, first explore other options, such as online retailers or local bookstores in the area, where you’ll likely find better deals. If you want to save money on college textbooks, avoid the campus bookstore whenever possible.

3. Rent textbooks

There is a good reason why this is a popular option among students – renting college textbooks is cheaper than buying new ones. Numerous online platforms offer textbook rental services, allowing you to rent textbooks at the beginning of the semester and return them after the finals – all this at a fraction of the cost of purchasing them outright. If you want to take advantage of this option, check out websites like Chegg, Campus Book Rentals, eCampus, and Knetbooks. Just make sure not to damage the books and return them on time to avoid fees!

4. Buy used textbooks

If you don’t want to rent and prefer to keep your textbooks after college, consider buying used textbooks, which are significantly cheaper than brand-new ones. Explore online marketplaces (AbeBooks, BooksRun, Chegg, Campus Books), book fairs, social media groups and campus bulletin boards for students selling used books. Many students sell their textbooks after completing a course, and with a bit of patience, you can find gently used books that are still in good condition.

5. Consider older editions

Opting for older editions of college textbooks can be a savvy move to cut down on costs without compromising the quality of your education. Older textbooks often contain nearly identical content to the latest editions. While page numbers, formatting, and occasional updates may differ, the fundamental information typically remains relevant. Compare the editions to ensure that the changes are minimal, and check with your professor. Professors commonly show understanding when students choose older editions to save money.

6. Switch to e-books

Many books are available in digital format, usually at a lower cost than their print editions. E-books are easily accessible on laptops, tablets, or e-readers, and you can carry your entire digital library with you on your favorite device. Moreover, there are many websites where you can download free e-books (including e-textbooks), such as Project Gutenberg, OpenStax, Internet Archive, or Open Education Network, so be sure to check them out before buying anything. You might find some of the ones you need and save a lot of money.

7. Check the libraries

Visit your campus library and other local libraries to see what they offer. Many libraries keep copies of required textbooks that students can check out or use in the library. While the demand might be high, it's always worth checking and putting your name on a waiting list. You may not be able to keep the books for the entire semester, but you can use them for short periods, take notes, or scan relevant pages. This can be particularly useful for reference books that may not be needed long-term.

8. Share textbooks with classmates or roommates

Chances are you're not the only one in your class or your dorm looking to cut costs on textbooks. Join forces with classmates or roommates taking the same course and form a shared textbook system. You can split the cost of purchasing or renting textbooks. You can also buy or rent different textbooks and swap them during the semester or from one semester to the next. Sharing textbooks can also save you money, but for this system to work, you must be well organized and stick to the schedule.

9. Compare prices

Don't settle for the first price you find. Before making any purchase, use price comparison websites, such as BookScouter or BigWords, to compare prices across various platforms and find the best deals on new or used textbooks. A bit of extra effort in researching prices can translate into significant savings throughout your college journey.

10. Explore textbook scholarships and grants

Many colleges and external organizations offer scholarships and grants specifically aimed at helping students cover the costs of textbooks. Take the time to explore scholarship opportunities provided by your college's financial aid office or other foundations. You might need to submit an essay or participate in an interview to apply for some of these textbook scholarships or grants, but remember that the potential reward of financial assistance is well worth the effort.