To take your online class, you'll need to either have a computer or consistent access to one. As it is the bread and butter of the success of your classes, you'll need to check the system requirements to be sure that the computer you do have will work for the purpose of your class. You may have a class that requires a lot of video streaming and therefore need a computer with enough memory and ram to process the transmission of such video. Even searching certain sites online will require that your computer be upgraded to a particular system in your search engines.
Once you're set with a computer, don't consider yourself off the hook and ready to begin classes just yet. Depending on your course of study you may need additional software to be successful in the class. Even having an updated version of the Microsoft suite may be required in order to do more than simple word processing. Some areas of study like graphic design and fashion merchandising require specialty software like the Adobe suite for manipulating photos and creating images. Consider all your required classes, ask about each of the programs and software needed for your degree and do your research on the software expense. Depending on your program, you may be looking at an additional couple of thousand dollars in software costs, even with your student discount.
Gaining access to the Internet has become easier as hundreds of businesses and properties offer complimentary or low-cost Wi-Fi services. Consider how convenient it will be to gain access and compare your trip to Starbucks every day with that of simply signing up through your local cable or Internet provider for access. If you decide to make the commute, factor in the cost for gas or public transportation fare to get you to and from. Funny to think about but if you're doing your budget on the penny, you must also factor in how many iced teas and cookies you have to purchase if you access the Internet at your local café who gives free access with any purchase.
Although you're taking your courses online, consider that some professors may still require you to purchase supplemental textbooks and reading documents. You may also be required to create papers and projects and send them via snail mail for review. These are often costs that you don't consider but can add up. You may also be asked to attend special events or sit in on local meetings that may have their own costs as well, so check your syllabus to be sure what you're expected to pay in addition to your online tuition fees.