CHICAGO STUDENT HOUSING AND LIVING RESOURCES

Student Resources For Living In Chicago

The city of Chicago is home to dozens of colleges and universities. Most campuses are located close to public transportation and have ample housing options nearby. Chicago’s higher education institutions provide students with the opportunity to pursue degrees and certificates in a vast range of academic and professional interests. From traditional 4-year colleges to med school training to alternative adult learning programs, Chicago offers first-rate accredited teaching facilities that attract students from across the country and around the world.

Money Saving Tips for Students

Whether you are living on financial aid or have a part-time job while going to school, chances are your incoming funds are somewhat limited and give you reason to pinch pennies where possible. Here are five simple tips to help Chicago college students save money and get the most bang for your buck in the big city.

• #1 Downsize Daily Expenditures - You’re in college now, so you’re no dummy. You know little daily expenses can add up to a lot of money over the course of a month. Make a detailed itemized list of your average weekly expenditures and ask yourself which 5 or 10 things you could eliminate if you had to. It could be as small as making a sandwich at home instead of buying one at the deli every day. Try it for a month and see how much extra cash you accumulate. Your wallet will definitely feel the difference!

• #2 Make a Budget - This may sound like advice your mom would give, but she has a point. If you know how much money you have to spend on certain things it is easier to stay within your means. Start by making a list of your tangible monthly expenses (e.g. tuition, room and board, books and school materials, public transportation, food, cell phone plan, that latte you buy every day, etc.). Seeing the bottom line on your fixed monthly expenditures will give you a clearer picture of how much you actually spend and how much you have leftover to spend on non-essential things, such as entertainment, eating out, weekend trips, etc.

• #3 Student ID Discounts - Lots of places around the city offer discounts to those with a valid student ID. Everywhere from retail stores and restaurants to movie theaters and museums cut their regular prices for college kids. So, it can’t hurt to ask the next time you pay for something.

• #4 Buy Used Books - Why purchase your school textbooks for full price when you can buy them used for a markdown? Many colleges have on-campus bookstores that sell used texts and you can also find them on web sites like Amazon.com or ISBN.nu. Borrowing textbooks from someone who has already taken the class is another way to cut costs – and save trees!

• #5 Be Careful with Credit Cards - Credit cards are a handy way to pay for things but they can end up biting you in the bank account if you’re not careful. The best tactic for credit card use is to pay off the balance on time and in full every month. That way you avoid the finance charge (which is often around 18% or higher) and late fees. Many cards offer an introductory rate of 0%, but make sure to read the fine print because it may have annual fees or a really high percentage rate after the preliminary term runs out. If you have trouble staying within your means, leave the credit card at home and use cash.

Colleges and Universities In The City Of Chicago

The following list includes some of the city’s most recognized educational institutions. Did you know UIC has the largest medical school in the nation? And that the public can actually dine on multi-course meals prepared in class by Kendall College’s culinary arts students? Get a brief rundown on other Windy City colleges and universities here– But keep in mind, this is just a small portion of the great academic schools available in Chicago.