When most students and families budget for college, they usually focus on the big numbers: tuition and housing. But once classes begin, there are a host of “hidden” expenses that can sneak up and strain finances. From required course materials to transportation and tech needs, these costs add up quickly and can catch students off guard if they’re not prepared.

Here are three common college expenses every student should factor into their budget:

1. Books and Digital Content Subscriptions

The Education Data Initiative estimates the average post-secondary student spent $1,212 per year for books and supplies in 2022-23 – a cost that increases an average of 6% each year.

And while the image of buying a stack of pricey textbooks at the college bookstore is still relevant, today’s learning materials often go beyond print. Many classes now also require digital content subscriptions, online lab simulations, or access to specialized academic databases.

Students can save money by renting or buying used books, or checking campus library availability. Simply search online or on campus buy/sell/trade boards for the title and edition of the textbooks you need. Some colleges also offer programs where course materials are bundled into tuition, so double-check what you’re already paying for before you duplicate costs. You can also recoup costs by reselling your course materials, and the American Opportunity Tax Credit and Lifetime Learning Credit allow you to claim educational expenses for a tax credit.

2. Parking and Transportation

Students who commute or keep a car on campus face expenses such as parking permits, gas, and vehicle maintenance. Even those without a car may need to budget for bus passes, rideshares, or other public transportation fees.

These costs can cost hundreds of dollars each semester, especially on campuses with limited parking or in cities with high commuting costs. Carpooling, using student discounts for bus passes, or biking and walking when possible can help minimize transportation-related expenses.

3. Technology and Equipment

In today’s connected world, laptops, tablets, and reliable internet connections aren’t luxuries—they’re essential. In addition, some majors require specialized software, calculators, or lab equipment.

For example, architecture or engineering students may need high-powered computers and design tools, while graphic designers may need a suite of Adobe software.

Fortunately, many colleges provide discounts on hardware and software through campus tech centers, and some offer short-term rentals for equipment like cameras or calculators. Taking advantage of these resources can significantly reduce costs while still ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed.

Planning Ahead Pays Off

While tuition and housing dominate the college cost conversation, these “extras” can quietly pile up. A few hundred dollars here and there may not seem significant, but across four years, unexpected expenses can add thousands to the overall price of a degree.

Using an education line of credit to cover college costs offers the ultimate flexibility – borrow what you need, when you need it, for any school-approved expenses. Whether you need to upgrade your laptop or pay for a semester of parking, a line of credit allows you to apply one time and cover costs for your entire undergraduate or graduate career.*

Students who plan for these hidden costs—and explore cost-saving strategies early—can reduce financial stress and focus more on their studies. By budgeting for books, transportation, and technology alongside tuition and rent, college becomes more manageable and predictable.