Campus dorm vs. off-campus apartment

Between tuition, food, travel expenses and recreational activities, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the aggregate costs of attending college. Luckily, scholarship opportunities can help make paying for higher education more affordable. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, nearly 66 percent of all undergraduates received some form of financial aid during the 2007-2008 school year - meaning that you have a good shot of earning extra money for school.

Additionally, you may also be weighing the financial and social advantages of living in a campus dorm vs. and off-campus apartment. Here are some things to consider while making your decision.

If you're really pressed for cash, you should consider how much you expect to spend on room and board at your school. Depending on the college and available living options, you may be able to find an affordable accommodation that also includes a meal plan and amenities like a laundry room, front desk security and campus cleaning services. Compare these figures with the average cost of rent and utilities in your school's area.

Beyond financial considerations, it's also important to realize the social differences between dorm and apartment life. While you may have more autonomy in an off-campus situation, you'll also be removed from the shared bonding experiences of life in a freshman dorm. Though you might have a quieter place to sleep and study in your apartment, you may find it more difficult to make friends and stay plugged into campus activities.

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