Room and Board
Students have three options for room and board when attending school: living at home and commuting, living on campus, or living off campus.

Living at home is the least expensive option if the school is within a reasonable distance. However, don't consider living at home a "free" cost. It is an expense.

Living on campus may be desirable and even required, especially for first-year students. On-campus housing can include dormitories, apartments, or large suites.

Meal plans typically are treated as separate items, even if you live in a dorm. Usually, there is a choice of meal plans, such as 15 or 19 meals a week. Pick one that fits your child's needs, otherwise you may be wasting money. (A child who skips breakfast and eats fast-food lunches probably doesn't need a 19-meal plan.)

Off-campus housing choices include apartments, rented rooms in homes, and sorority or fraternity housing. Some families buy a home or condo for their child, rent it out to other students as well, and then sell the property after their child leaves school.



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