The excitement of being accepted into college is a huge relief after the stress of the application process. However, that excitement can quickly become more stress when you start to process the costs associated with attending college. A simple thing like illustrated anatomy textbooks can be so expensive it makes you feel as though you won't be able to afford the things you need. But with the proper planning and use of resources, you can cut many of these costs down to a fraction of what you think they will be. Here are some tips for saving money in two of the primary expense areas.

Textbooks: As all students and former students know, this is one of the hugest expenses of attending college. Do not wait until the last minute, when you will have no choice but to purchase all of your books new from the school bookstore. Consider these possibilities:

1. Online sites. Many internet retailers sell textbooks for a fraction of the cover price. If you can find used books, you can save money, even when you consider the shipping and handling costs.

2. Network with other students, especially those in your major. You might be able to buy or borrow their used books, in print or electronic form.

3. Ask your college bookstore about used books and rentals. Buying the books used (if they are available) will save you a good percentage of the bookstore's price for new ones. Renting will be even cheaper, and let's be realistic; most people do not use their textbooks after they have finished a class.

Living Costs: This is a fantastic are in which to save. When you are in the middle of completing a fifteen page research paper, you don't want to suddenly find that you electricity is cut off or you can't pay the rent. Here are some ways to prevent those scenarios.

1. On-campus housing. The dorms might be your best bet for low-cost living, especially if you have a scholarship that covers this cost, or your parents are paying for your schooling. A bonus: most campus living includes a meal plan, which is another way to save.

2. Live with other people. Having roommates, especially ones who are strangers, can be aggravating. However, it may be worth the aggravation if it will cut your living expenses down to a half or a third of what they would be otherwise. Perhaps you can even find friends to live with.

3. Stay with your parents. More and more people are choosing to stay at home and attend college in their hometown. You may be anxious to get out on your own, but remember: if you can save some money by living with your parents now, you will have a better chance of achieving security once you DO get out on your own.

Beginning a college degree presents the student with many decisions all at once. This can be overhwhelming, but planning in advance can help. Shelling out the cash for those campus activity fees and illustrated anatomy textbooks will hurt much less if you have a budget and a plan in mind.