In addition to the high cost of tuition, university students will soon come to release that the burden of textbooks does not simply lie in their weight. When a student wonders how much do college textbooks cost, they are often in for an unpleasant surprise.

The cost of university textbooks is a source of stress which students experience at the beginning of each semester. The question on whether a student should buy or rent textbooks remains lingering.

It is ultimately up to the student – but there are several things to consider before joining the queue at the university bookstore.

Buy Or Rent: A Dilemma

Most of your initial semesters will revolve around taking the “basic courses” before diving into your major. As your major is your passion, it is a subject you will want to continue to explore even after graduation. As a result, you will want these books to continue to grace your bookshelves. For this scenario, you will want to buy.

But…this does not mean that every textbook for your major will be one worth keeping. Let us use an example of a business major. The aspiring entrepreneur who majors in business will have a particular interest in business, maybe finance or marketing. Nevertheless, the student will be required to take broad courses in their major – think Intro to Business or Economics 101. The chances of needing to always refer to the textbooks from such courses after finishing them are unlikely.

But what if you are a medical student? While you may still want to specialize in a particular field of medicine – there may be basics which you will always need to refer to.

Use the above two examples as a guide. Consider the knowledge in these textbooks and if they are so specific that you would need to keep the book after the semester ends, and indeed upon your matriculation.

Supplements and Editions

Often a textbook may come with a supplement. The most popular type of supplement is a CD which may contain additional material or even assessments. There may be a mini-book or booklet with additional learning material as well. If this is required, you have no choice but to purchase the textbook.

However, there is a possible escape! If your textbook has supplements, it is always best to ask students who have taken the course before if the supplements were indeed used. If not, then you can consider renting. Of course, just because it was not used in the past does not mean it will not be used in the future – but that is for you to decide, the safe option is to buy.

And what about the editions of textbooks? Most textbooks will get an update. Some faster than others. More often that not, the course syllabus will recommend the latest edition of the textbook – even if the modifications are minor. However, you should ask your professor directly if the latest edition is really necessary. If not, you will do well in renting the textbook. If the textbook has a new edition every semester it is best to rent it (if possible) as buying it would make it near impossible to sell the following semester – or anytime in the near future.

How Long Is My Rental Agreement?

As a side note, it is imperative that you see if there are any conflicts with the due date of your rented textbook and your final exams. If you are required to return the book prior to your exams, ask if there is a possibility of extending the due date for a fee. Often with e-books there are long rental periods which can extend beyond the semester. This may be the ideal option if you do not mind e-books. Even if you have traditionally stuck with print books, you should always consider to rent books online.

Where Do We Go From Here?

So where are the places you, the student, should look to buy or rent textbooks and get the best value for your money?

Do I Have To Go To The Bookstore?

When deciding to purchase or rent textbooks, the bookstore does not have to be your only option.

The Internet is a great option and has a multitude of websites to purchase or rent textbooks. Before making your purchase or rental, make sure you do a price comparison to find where you can get the best value.

Another great place to look are Facebook groups. Facebook groups are often university-specific, and allow you to meet with other students who want to sell, rent out, or even give away their used textbooks.

Look Around The Internet

As your semesters progress, you will find online book retailers which appeal to you. Even if they do not always offer the best price, there may be an online bookstore which offers the best customer service, textbook quality, refund policy, and reselling policy. They may even have rewards programs to give you discounts on future textbooks. Keep a shortlist of textbook retailers you can always refer to when you want to buy or rent textbooks or also sell textbooks.

Libraries! Remember Them?

Many university students do not always frequent the library but often these are the best places to find textbooks and rent them for free. If a book is not found at the university library, check your local library. Just remember to only use the library as an option if you are certain you do not want to purchase the book. Or, you can rent the book for free and this will give you a better idea if you want to purchase the book in future. If you have a book which is widely printed and goes beyond the scope of a textbook (for example, a novel which an English major would have to read) – the library may be your best choice.

Sell!

Finally, if you have purchased textbooks and decide to sell them in the future make sure you weigh your options. Generally speaking, the university bookstore is not the best place to get a good deal. Online bookstores may offer you a better deal or you may be able to negotiate directly with a fellow student. It is unlikely you will break even or make a profit, but you want to make sure you can recover as much of your money as possible.

Take the right steps, and you will be sure to survive college! Whether you buy or rent textbooks, make sure you get the best value you can!