How to Pay Bills While in College

Students Get Jobs to Pay the Bills

For college students focused on getting a solid education, it can be difficult to keep up with bills in between classes and study time. Despite this, many students quickly find that they need some source of income to pay for books, food and other expenses. In a 2008 study by UCLA researchers, 49 percent of students planned to work during college. A separate study in 2001 by Indiana University found that students' grades were not adversely affected by working, as long as work time did not exceed 25 hours per week. To pay bills in college while keeping up with schoolwork, students must think carefully about managing their schedules and keeping expenses at a minimum.

Instructions

1. Keep your expenses low. Many financial advisers advocate "living like a college student." As a student, you have the perfect opportunity to minimize your bills and take advantage of free resources. Eat on campus to save money on food, and take part in free entertainment opportunities through your college. Wait until after graduation to buy that new car or other expensive purchase you may be looking into.

2. Find a job that suits your schedule. If your classes take place in the mornings, look for evening jobs, and vice versa. Consider working on campus to save yourself the time and expense of commuting.

3. Look for flexible work that can be done on your schedule. Some avenues to explore include tutoring, freelance writing, personal training or starting a small business. You could create study guides, sell cosmetics (like Avon or Mary Kay) or plan events that people would pay to attend, like seminars, parties or children's programs. Any of these options can bring in money to help pay the bills.

4. Schedule your classes so that you have solid blocks of time off for working. You could plan all your classes for three days a week, or only take classes in the morning. By arranging your schedule this way, you are freeing up large numbers of hours that you can work, which may help you get a job.

5. Maintain a calendar or list of monthly bills. Include the amount owed and the due date. As you pay each bill, cross it off your list. Sign up for auto pay and email payment reminders whenever possible so you don't miss a payment.

References

• Students Juggle School and Work
• Indiana University Center for Student Engagement

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish