Some teenagers think they’re untouchable. But the economy today is working hard at proving them wrong, affecting teenagers in direct ways – overcrowded classrooms, fare increases on the bus, and now, fees for Advanced Placement tests.
For some, the AP test has always meant handing over the $79 fee. In the past, fee waivers have eased the financial blow for those that qualify, lowering the cost to $5 per test. This year, however, is a different story. Although there are people working behind the scenes to lower the cost of the test, the current predicament is that those who do not qualify for a fee waiver will pay $54 per test, and $32 for those who do qualify. So with these tests and fees looming only eight weeks away, here are some tips to help you corral some cash.
Every little bit helps
Part of saving money is consciousness of how you’re spending.  Could you live without going to see that new movie in theaters, and wait for it to go to Netflix? Do you have to go out to eat today? When you examine your choices and put your pocket change aside for you AP test fund, it can add up.
Odd jobs
Poke around a little among friends and family for some odd jobs that need doing – babysitting, weed-pulling, finally getting over to Grandma’s to clean out the garage, perhaps? Or if you have a talent, see what options there are out there to capitalize on it, like selling your artwork or cutting hair.
Prioritize
So you think you can’t afford the AP test – but how much are you planning on spending for prom? Try to look at things with a “bigger picture” mentality. What you’re compelled to spend money on now may be simply less important in the long run. After all, the AP test could potentially be college credit, meaning college courses paid for. The fee now, however unreasonable it can seem, could save you a few thousand dollars later on.