The average college student has approximately $3,000 in credit card debt, and education expenses aren't the only thing they are using their credit cards for. In fact, food, clothes, and cosmetics are at the head of the class when it comes to non-education expenses charged to student credit cards.

While using credit cards may be inevitable, there are ways to control their usage. The following tips are specifically designed to help college students avoid the common pitfalls associated with credit card debt while still in school.

• Don't sign up for a credit card just to get that free gift. Compare fees and interest rates of all credit card offers.
• One credit card is all you need.
• Never buy more than you can afford. Using a credit card when you don't have the cash is the fastest route to a balance you can't repay.
• Pay your bill in full every month. By making only minimum payments, finance charges could bring the cost of that $20 shirt to $100.
• Never get a cash advance. Credit card companies charge 2%-4% in fees plus finance charges.
• Never go over the credit limit. Keep charges within 10% to 30% of your limit. Interest and fee calculations easily take balances over the limit.
• Never use your credit card for someone else’s purchases or let a friend use your card.
• Don't hesitate to close the account. It is better to close the account than to ruin your credit score.

Credit cards don’t come with owners’ manuals. Some times, it seems as though credit card companies prefer that you make costly mistakes, allowing them to earn even more in interest and fees. Therefore, it is important that students are aware of the credit card traps and use them responsibly.