Updated: Apr 27, 2023
Tips for first-generation college students
Learn what it means to be a first-generation college student. Discover Student Loans provides tips on how first-generation students can navigate college.
Article highlights
- Weigh the benefits and drawbacks of living on campus or at home with some factors in mind, such as the commute, costs, and your personal preferences.
- While living on campus can make it easier to meet people, living at home may help you stay focused on your studies.
- Living at home can save you money on room and board, but keep in mind you’ll need to account for commuting costs and time.
Choosing to live on campus or at home is a big decision. Consider the pros and cons before you decide.
When considering what college to attend, you will need to decide whether you live on campus or at home. It's a big decision that depends on many factors, including the location of your school, your finances and your personal preferences. Keep these points in mind as you weigh each option.
Living on campus
- It may be easier to meet people and feel part of the college community if you live on campus.
- Living with a roommate in a dorm can either enhance a college experience or be challenging for some students.
- Living in a dorm can be confining and lacking in privacy for some students.
- Residential living can add to the overall cost of your education.
Living at home
- Some students may stay focused on their studies if they live at home.
- If you can live at home for free or low cost, it can be more economical.
- Students may find it difficult to be socially active on campus if they are commuting.
- Some students may feel a lack of independence when living at home.
- Students living at home and commuting to campus will need to be mindful of their schedules and account for the time to commute back and forth.
You could win a $5,000 scholarship for college!
Sign up for emails with helpful college tips and resources to enter. Official Rules
More to Explore
Previous Slide
Next Slide
How to turn an internship into a job
An internship is a great way to start your career. Learn how to make the most of your internship and turn it into a job with tips from Discover Student Loans.
How to study abroad
Interested in studying abroad? Discover Student Loans covers how to study abroad in college, types of programs, what to look for, and how to pay.
Seven ways to stay connected with friends from home
Missing your friends when you go away to college is normal. Use these tips from Discover Student Loans for easy ways to stay connected with friends from home.
What to do the summer before college
Learn how to make the most of your summer after high school. Discover Student Loans outlines what to do the summer before college to set yourself up to succeed.
5 things to do at freshman orientation
Freshman orientation can be overwhelming. Learn what to expect and key things to do at freshman orientation with advice from Discover Student Loans.
What is an RA in college?
If you live on campus, you will likely have an RA. Learn more about college residential advisors, what they do, and how to become one with Discover Student Loans.
How to find roommates for college
Need a college roommate but not sure how to go about your search? Use this advice from Discover Student Loans to help you find roommates for college.
