Cheap Textbooks: Tips to Save on Textbooks
Today we have a guest post from JT Thome, COO of Textbooks.com………
A study conducted by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that college textbook prices rose at twice the rate of annual inflation over the last two decades; economic issues make this even more of a “hot button issue” for 2009. This August, as students return to college campuses and begin to calculate the costs of first semester textbooks, many will be looking for ways to help them save money.
Textbook photo by pmccormi
With back to school right around the corner, the state of the US economy means that now more than ever, parents are concerned with the cost of sending their kids off to college. There are some simple tips that parents and students can keep in mind to help save, and keep more money in their pockets.
- The biggest mistake that many students make when purchasing their textbooks is that they wait too long. The secret to reducing the cost of a student’s textbooks is to shop early when the used books are plentiful. Used books save money!
- The second biggest mistake that some students make is by waiting too long to sell their books back at the end of the semester. By selling their books back after their final exams, the students will get the most for their money.
- Shopping online can save students money – big money. Online retailers sometimes offer discounts – even on used books – and free shipping. Shopping online allows students to “comparison shop” more easily, meaning that they will find the best deals available on the textbooks they need.
- When making their purchase, students should be sure to double-check the ISBN number to make sure they are purchasing the correct edition. Also, make sure not to buy an international edition.
The most important factor in how much students will pay is timing - students who shop early save more. As soon as students have their courses selected and have received their syllabus from the faculty member, it’s time to buy their textbooks!
Do you have any other suggestions to help students save money of college textbooks? Leave a comment.
