Cheap Textbooks: How to Save Money on College Textbooks
Everyone would prefer cheap textbooks—or at least cheaper textbooks. According to estimates by CollegeBoard.org, the average student spends more than $1,200 per year on textbooks and supplies.
Those using the Post 9/11 GI Bill will receive a stipend for books per year, but you may not have access to those funds at purchase time before the semester begins. It pays to budget, assuming your stipend will pay you back later for book purchases you make today.
Cheap Textbooks: How to Save Money on Textbooks
Going to school includes tuition, fees, room and board, supplies, and, of course, the cost of your textbooks. There are plenty of options to help save you money on textbooks, including:
Comparison Sites
Don’t accept the prices at your campus bookstore without first comparison shopping. The following websites allow you to compare prices across a few different online sites.
Often you can use the ISBN number to search for editions of textbooks to find where to get the best price.
Shop Around
There are many alternatives to your campus bookstore, including:
Buy Used Textbooks
Why buy new? Many students sell their books back to the college or even online, and you should be able to buy a good quality used textbook from either a fellow student or a storefront that buys textbooks from them. Your college bookstore might have used copies (check there first) and your local used book shop may also be a good source.
Rent Textbooks
Renting textbooks has become a modern way to save money with your textbooks. You can rent them through companies such as
When renting textbooks, you must be careful about highlighting and marking up the textbook. Make sure to check with the company about what their rules and regulations when renting textbooks.
Check Your Library
Libraries may feature textbooks you can borrow. Check and see how long you can borrow them for and if this would be a good option for you. Most university libraries will allow you to check out the books for a few hours at a time if need be but there might be other options for more extended periods of time.
Older Editions
If you can find an older edition of the textbook that you know will still hold up, that can be an excellent way to save on cheap textbooks. You don’t want to go too far back, but in a lot of cases, you don’t need to have the newest edition. Speak with your professor about a particular edition if you are unsure if that book will work. One thing to remember is that if the syllabus has page numbers to go by, they could differ by edition.
Ready to Sell Your Textbooks Back?
However much you spend on your books, plan to sell them after the semester ends. That way you can make back some of your money. Most college and university bookstores will buy back your books. You can also post on social media that you have “gently loved” textbooks for sale. You may also approach a reseller:
Campus Bookstore – don’t forget your campus bookstore for selling back the book. Sometimes, due to their higher mark-up, they can buy them from you at a higher price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I save money on textbooks?
To save money on textbooks, you should compare prices online using sites like CampusBooks.com and BookScouter, buy used books, or rent through platforms like Chegg or Amazon. You can also check your library or consider sharing a textbook with a friend. Older editions can be a cheaper option, but make sure they’ll work for your class.
Is it cheaper to rent or buy college textbooks?
Renting textbooks is often cheaper upfront, especially if you only need the book for one semester. Buying used textbooks can also save you money, and you might make some back by selling them later. The best choice depends on whether you need the book long-term.
Why are college textbooks so expensive?
College textbooks are expensive due to high production costs, frequent new editions, and limited competition among publishers. Specialized content and additional resources, like online access codes, can also increase prices. Thankfully, there are many ways to avoid paying full price.
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