Where to Find College Textbooks for Cheap
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The cost of attending a university is high enough without having to worry about textbook expenses each semester. Nevertheless, the stack of textbooks required for some classes can add up to hundreds, if not over $1,000 each semester. In this article, I’ll share the tips I’ve learned and the resources I’ve utilized to minimize my textbook expenses while pursuing higher education.
During my first two years of college, I spent much more on textbooks than was necessary. I thought that physical books were the best option and that I needed to buy (not rent) them so I could keep them for future reference. Although in some cases buying a physical textbook may be best, there are cheaper options that offer only what you need, and nothing that you don’t. Let’s find out which one is right for you!
Firstly, it’s important to note that renting textbooks is almost always cheaper than buying. You will be able to significantly reduce your textbook costs if you choose to rent instead of buy.
“But what if I need this textbook after the class is over?”
Odds are, you won’t. Out of the eight textbooks I own, I’ve only picked up one of them to reference after the class was over. If you’re still unsure, think about which textbooks will come in handy most often down the road. Is the topic something you can’t simply search on Google and find the answer to? Is this information difficult to access? Are there reference tables and detailed examples that you can’t simply find on the internet? If so, it may be worth it to buy. Otherwise, don’t be hesitant to rent your textbooks and save on expenses.
Related: “10 Effective Study Tips to Spend Less Time Studying and Get Better Grades”
“When should I buy my textbooks?”
I usually wait until the first week of class to purchase my textbooks. This is because some professors will provide a PDF copy of their required textbook, or they will announce that the textbook is recommended and not required, even if the class description says otherwise. I am able to wait until the first week of class because I often purchase or rent digital textbooks with immediate access. However, if you prefer a physical textbook, consider emailing your professor a week or so before the class begins to ask about the textbook requirements. This will allow time for your required textbooks to ship.
“Where should I look for textbooks?”
If you’re looking for the cheapest prices on physical textbooks, be sure to give Knetbooks a try. They have an extensive library of textbooks that you can rent for as much as 85% off! You can choose short term, quarter, or semester rentals, and extend your rental period at any time. But this is my favorite part - they offer FREE shipping both ways! That’s a heck of a deal. Plus, you have the option to purchase if you decide to keep your textbook after your rental period. All around, Knetbooks is probably the cheapest place to rent physical textbooks, and should be one of your go-to sites when searching for textbooks.
Chegg is a well-known site for students, but did you know they offer textbook rentals and purchases? You can save up to 90% by renting textbooks from Chegg, and they offer both physical and ebook options. Honestly, Chegg is the place where I’ve chosen to rent my textbooks most often. The ebook interface is easy to use, and textbook rentals include 4 weeks of Chegg Study for free! If you’re not familiar with Chegg Study, they offer step-by-step textbook/homework solutions completed by experts. I’ve used Chegg Study a few times when taking very difficult classes or when I had a professor that was better at research than teaching (we all know who they are)...and I can’t describe what a relief it is to have that “ah-ha!” moment when a homework problem finally makes sense. Chegg Study is a great value in itself, so I think it’s awesome that 4 weeks are included for free with any textbook purchase. In addition, Chegg offers free return shipping on all orders. Order the wrong book? Drop a class? No problem. All physical rentals come with a 21 day refund guarantee, while ebook rentals offer 14 days to change your mind. All in all, Chegg is another affordable option to consider if you’re looking to maximize flexibility and get a few freebies along the way!
I often look on Amazon if I intend to purchase a used textbook, but did you know they offer rentals as well? We all know that Amazon hosts a massive marketplace where sellers offer items for a variety of prices. With many flexible options for renting and buying, don’t forget to check Amazon if the sites above don’t meet your needs. Plus, any Prime Student member can get free two-day shipping on textbooks! Search for your textbook on Amazon here.
“Where else can I find affordable textbooks?”
Alternatively, you can join a textbook exchange Facebook group, contact a previous student from the class you intend to take, or search for a pdf version of the book online. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and acquire the book for free or at a large discount using these methods.
“Where can I find more information about how to reduce college expenses?”
If you’d like to learn more strategies for reducing college expenses, sign up to access my free workshop below. I graduated with a master’s degree and no college debt, and my goal is to share my experience and knowledge with students and families with the same questions that I had. I genuinely believe that with the right plan and resources, you don’t have to go into debt to pay for college. This workshop will get you started on the path to mapping out your plan toward a debt-free future…
