There are four seemingly small decisions students make that can greatly impact their total tuition costs. Do you know what they are?

Here are some of the most common money traps…

1. Not declaring a major early – Students who don’t lay out a four-year plan or schedule in advance may cost themselves (or their parents) big bucks in unnecessary courses.
2. Taking fewer than 15 credits a semester –Many students take the minimum of 12 credits since it constitutes as full-time – not realizing this may push their graduation out by a semester, or even a year.
3. Changing a major more than twice – Students who frequently change their majors usually end up spending money in unnecessary courses.
4. Misunderstanding tuition figures – Students and parents alike often mistake tuition figures (cost per credit, room and board, textbooks, and school supplies) with the “cost of attendance” (COA), which includes fees for student activities, parking, labs, gym usage, and technology.

Do you have any to add? Let us know in the comments section below.

Tags: course of study, Majors, student traps