WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- College textbooks can hit a student's wallet hard.

The College Board says the average student spent about $1200 on them during the last academic year.

Financial experts say even though the college bookstore may be the most convenient option, it's not a student's only option.

"The books there are typically top-dollar.  So, you want to check those online sites.  A lot of those online textbook search engines will find the cheapest textbook retailers," says Scott Gamm.

The resale and exchange of used textbooks has become easier than ever thanks to specialized websites like Amazon and Bookfinder.com.Students should tap into their own personal social networks, too.

HelpSaveMyDollars.com's Gamm says, "What better way to trade books or purchase books than to do so by people you know. So, you want to use your social networks.  Use the folks you know on Twitter and Facebook."

Also, search for the international editions of textbooks.

They are designed for different regions of the world but often have the same content as the U.S. edition.

And, that will save you as much as 70 percent.

College students can also cut their textbook costs by shopping on Craig's List and at Goodwill stores.

And rent textbooks from online sites like BookRenter.com and CampusBookRentals.com.  They will even provide two-way free shipping.