Fixed
Fixed Expenses are those expenses that are not only determined by outside sources, but more importantly, have little or no wiggle room when it comes to your personal choices. Some examples of fixed expenses are:

• Registration Fees - These fees are set by the University and often represent a major portion of your expenditure budget.  
• Tip: Many Universities offer fee installment plans that may help you budget this expense over a period of time during the semester or academic year.  
• Tip: You can reduce the cost or your fees per semester by enrolling part-time.  Or Trap? Remember - it will take you longer to reach your degree this way and you will end up paying for more for your education.

• Books and Supplies - The courses you take will determine these costs. In some majors, like Engineering, books can be very expensive. While these expenses will vary a little from year to year, they are considered to be fixed as you cannot be expected to choose your major based on the costs associated with required books and supplies.
• Tip: Although it may take some time and perseverance, many books can be purchased used or on-line at a considerable savings.   And don't forget - if your textbook is going to be used by the same professor the next semester, you might be able to sell it back and get some extra end-of-the-semester cash!

• Where to Live - Most times you have a choice on where you are going to live while attending college. Staying at home may be an option, but if it isn't, you will need to consider on-campus dorms or off-campus housing. Dorm availability and the housing market in the area of your college may limit your choices and options, and can directly affect the cost of your housing.
• Tip:   Having one or several roommates can help defray the cost of an apartment or house.  Or Trap? But, be careful! Along with apartment and house living comes a lot of extras like utilities and   commute expenses. See the flexible expenses section of this website for more discussion on these and other "hidden costs".

• Health Insurance - This is probably something that you haven't had to think of up to now as you were probably covered by your parents or spouse's insurance program. However, this may not be the case once you become a college student. It is important to have some type of health insurance as without it, you may end up spending far more in the event you need medical or dental care.
• Tip: Most colleges and universities offer some type of health insurance.   Designed specifically for college students, costs will vary depending upon the level of coverage. Check with your student health center or student government association to see what plans are available at your campus!

• Prescription Medications - If it is necessary for you to take prescription medications that are not covered by your health insurance, you need to make sure you account for the on-going expense of these medications.
• Tip: You may be able to save some money by using generic forms of your medication if available. Consult your physician regarding your options!