Everybody Pays: College Costs Beyond Tuition

Many of the educators at Bright Horizons College Coach are also parents of high school students. We are excited to share with you some personal insights on college admission and finance as we navigate this process with our own families.

As my family gets ready to send our oldest child to college in a few short weeks, I have been thinking not just about the cost of tuition, housing, and her meal plan, but about all the other costs associated with her next chapter. For example, our daughter is headed to school several states away, so we have been talking about the cost of travel to campus. Should we fly? Should we drive? Where will we stay?

If you’re preparing to send your own child to college this year, or many years down the road, there are several cost categories that may require your attention (or at least an honest family conversation) as you plan, save, and pay for college. Here are some expenses beyond tuition that should be discussed as you budget:

• Student transportation (including costs to get to and from college in summers and on holidays, and costs while on campus)
• Parent travel to and from campus, if needed
• Textbooks and school supplies
• Club/campus organization fees, including Greek life participation, if applicable
• Social outings (going to the movies or concerts, attending sporting events)
• Food beyond the meal plan (groceries, dining out)
• Electronics and other technology, including cell phone bills and streaming services
• Laundry
• Residence hall supplies (sheets, fan, refrigerator, TV)
• Utility deposits and bills (if living off campus)
• Insurance (rental, liability, automobile, life, personal belongings)
• Clothing and shoes
• Personal care (skincare, toiletries, haircuts)
• International student expenses (longer distance travel, possible visa/passport fees)
• Housing during breaks, if needed
• Vaccinations and prescriptions
• Cash or credit cards for emergencies

Best of luck to all the students heading to college this fall. Get ready to flash that brand new student ID and take advantage of low-cost/no cost discounts available to students. Study hard, be kind, make new friends, and remember to call your parents. We will miss you!