Find a roommate to split the bills. Begin the process of finding a roommate several months before the school year starts. Create a list of what qualities you want in a roommate. For example, if you don't smoke, you may want a nonsmoker. Talk to anyone you know who may be interested and place fliers near your school. Also, contact your school's housing department to see what resources are available for finding a roommate. Often, schools help facilitate roommate matches.
Use excess money from any student financial aid, including scholarships and loans. Many financial aid offices deduct the cost of tuition and miscellaneous fees from your total award amount and then issue a refund for the difference. Save the refunded money in a bank account and reserve it for rent checks.
Get a job. Write down your school schedule to determine what times you are available for work. Look for jobs on campus as the school usually allows student workers to have a flexible schedule. Submit applications in the community surrounding the school as well. If possible, find an off-campus job that corresponds to your chosen major.