Join a book trading site. Book trading sites are the perfect place to find free textbooks. The only catch is that you have to be willing to part with some of your own books. Chances are you've got a stack of old books scattered throughout your room. Post the books on the site and you’ll quickly get the credits you need to get free textbooks.
Search for an online version of the book. Some instructors use older textbooks that can be found online. With a quick search, you may be able to find the entire textbook for free. This is a great tip to follow if you're taking online classes.
If you know someone who took the course last semester, ask to borrow their book. Even if the instructor is using a newer edition, chances are the version your friend has is almost exactly the same as the new edition. It’s a win/win for everyone. You’ll get a free textbook, and your friend can get rid of a textbook that no longer has any value.
Place a wanted ad on student bulletin boards. If an instructor upgraded to a new edition, place a wanted ad requesting a copy of last semester’s textbook. Some textbooks are updated every year, and the only thing that changes is the page numbers. Don’t waste your hard-earned cash on a new edition.
Some instructors keep extra editions of textbooks handy. If you’re having financial trouble, ask your instructor if you can borrow a copy. Most instructors are more than happy to help.