Gathering up all the money needed for college is a major undertaking, no doubt, but don't lose sight of the fact that saving money, minimizing expenditures and spending your college fund wisely are just as important.

As great-grandma might remind: A penny saved is a penny earned.

In other words, discovering ways not to spend all that money is just as important as finding it in the first place. Start by exploring ways to reduce tuition and fees, cutting the costs of books, computers, supplies and other incidentals. Consider better ways to manage your fund and above all, avoid getting yourself into financial hot water before you even start your career.

Strategies to minimize college tuition -- Check out these offbeat and overlooked strategies for pursuing and paying for a college degree.

Busted: 6 myths about in-state tuition eligibility -- If you're thinking about pulling a quick state-residency switch to get a tuition break, better think again.

On or off campus? There's no dorm like home -- If ever there were a topic that defied pat answers and average costs, this is it. Often, intangibles tip the scales.

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12 got-to-have gadgets for today's student -- A boom box and a mini-fridge just don't cut it in today's high-tech dorm rooms.

Getting an e-education -- Students like the lack of geographical and time constraints. But an e-degree can be costly. Be sure to do your homework before signing on.

Which college account should you use first? -- The order can make a big difference in your tax savings and financial-aid eligibility.

Smarten up: You can save money on books -- Textbooks cost the average college student more than $800 a year, but there are ways to save.

12 tips for stretching a scholar's dollar -- A dozen ways to avoid wasting those precious bucks.

Cutting the cost of college incidentals -- Universities often pile on fees for stuff that students can get cheaper or live without. Check out these campus costs, such as dorm dining plans, that you can work around.

Cost of ... decorating a dorm room -- It all adds up, from lighting to bedding to a foosball table

10 great deals just for college students -- Many businesses have taken pity on the financial plight of college students, offering discounts on everything from burgers to Broadway plays.

Finding money advice on campus -- Need financial advice and Mom's not around to help? Buck up, aid's available if you know where to look.

13 tips on using your credit card -- Credit cards can be a great help -- or a great danger -- for a college student.

10 tips to avoid back-to-school credit woes -- You can get Junior back to school painlessly and economically by following these expert tips designed to keep you out of a money pit of credit-card debt.

Web shopping for textbooks -- You can almost certainly find better deals online than you can at your campus bookstore.

-- Posted: Aug. 11, 2005