1) Course Materials Beyond Textbooks
- Lab equipment (goggles, coats, etc.)
- Software subscriptions (e.g., MATLAB, Adobe Suite)
- Clickers or other devices for in-class participation
- Printing fees for assignments or projects
2) Transportation Costs
- Public transit passes, especially if living off-campus
- Parking fees for those who drive
- Occasional ridesharing (Uber, Lyft) for late-night or early-morning travel
- Biking costs (bike maintenance, locks, etc.)
3) Food Beyond Meal Plans ie: Ubereats, doordash, eating out, snacks, etc
4) Technology and Tech Support
- Unexpected laptop or phone repairs
- Buying additional peripherals like a keyboard, mouse, or headset
- Replacement chargers and cables
5) Social Events and Clubs
- Costs for joining clubs or sports teams (membership fees, equipment, uniforms)
- Tickets for events, formals, or trips
- Nights out
6) Gym membership if not included in student plan
7) Household Essentials
- Cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, and toiletries
- Furnishing a dorm or apartment (e.g., bedding, cookware, small appliances)
- Maintenance costs for shared housing
8) Unexpected Fees
- Late fees for library books or missed payments
- Course add/drop fees if you adjust your schedule after the deadline
- Graduation fees when it comes time to complete your degree
9) Conference/Networking event fees or even career fares especially for senior 3rd-4th yr students
10) Exchange Programs
- With scholarships, there are often extra costs like travel insurance, flights, and living expenses .