College can be quite an expensive time in life. If you are a college student looking for ways to stay on budget and live better for less, take a look below at 25 ways for college students to save money. When you give these 25 tips a try, you will find that saving money doesn’t have to be painful or hard. In fact, it can be quite simple and rewarding. Here is how you can get started saving!
25 Ways for College Students to Save Money
1. Rent your textbooks or buy used.
Never buy new textbooks. Sure they have a great sell back value, but they will cost nearly twice as much as buying used or renting. Instead, patronize outlets that offer used textbooks or books for rent. Chances are you will spend a fraction of the cost of new. Here are tips for where to rent or buyused college textbooks.
2. Walk or bike it.
College campuses are typically ideal for walkers and bikers. Utilize one of these methods instead of maintaining a car (gas, parking passes, etc.) or riding the bus.
3. Use off campus convenience stores.
Whenever possible use off campus convenience stores. When buying simple snacks or toiletries you will pay higher mark up if you pay for the convenience of the on campus shopping.
4. Take advantage of free movie nights.
The local school of art may offer free movies, plays, and other live entertainment events. Make sure you are in the know for these events so you can take advantage of them.
5. Sign up for studies.
Many of the psychology departments will offer test sessions you can sign up to be part of. These are by no means scary or evasive. They may be as simple as you watching a video and giving feedback. for your time, you will receive modest compensation.
6. Use your student ID.
Whether dining out, seeing a movie, or getting an oil change, show your student ID and get any discounts that may be coming to you.
7. Get the student paper.
The student ran newspaper will be full of money saving coupons, free activity notices, and other money saving offers just for students. Be sure you get the paper daily and stay abreast of what is going on!
8. Use the free WiFi.
Free wifi is everywhere on a college campus. Don’t pay for internet services when you can tap into one of these many free wifi spots for free.
9. Trade services.
Are you excellent at math but not so hot at history? Trade your skills with another student instead of hiring a tutor. You can also trade skills such as crafting, beauty skills, and other handy work with each other in order to get what you need without spending a dime.
10. Work where there are perks.
Love pizza? Get a part time job at a pizza joint. Love to read? Get a job at a bookstore. Not only will you make a little cash, but you will get discounts if not freebies for being an employee.
11. Talk to the locals.
If attending college in an area you aren’t from, talk to the locals. They can tell you where the best kept deals are hiding and give you helpful advice on saving money in the area.
12. Use the envelope system.
Side aside a certain dollar amount each month to use towards food, entertainment, housing, etc. Keep each decided upon amount in an envelope. Spend as needed but when the envelope is empty, it is empty. Use this method as a way to budget yourself.
13. Check out thrift shops.
Not only are they great for clothing, but they are perfect for finding dorm room decor such as chairs, lamps, pictures, and more.
14. Utilize the dollar store.
Dollar stores are always a sure thing. Hit up the local dollar store for school supplies, toiletries, and even snacks perfect for late night studying.
15. Use the school gym.
Skip buying a gym membership and instead take advantage of the campus work out facilities.
16. Repair what you have instead of buying new.
Use the internet to find out how to repair torn and stain clothing, shoes, household items and more. This is much cheaper than replacing the items and a great way to learn a new skill.
17. Avoid the allure of a pet.
Being on your own is exciting, so you might think you need an animal to share in on your joy. However pets are expensive, so try to resist the urge for now. You will save so much by not having to buy food or pay for vet bills.
18. Resist expensive habits.
Specifically speaking, now is not the time to indulge yourself in smoking or drinking. Not only are they unhealthy habits that can hurt your college career, but they are so expensive! Find healthier habits that keep your body, mind, and budget at its best.
19. Take on a roommate.
If you decide to try apartment living, taking on a roommate is a great idea. You will be able to split the cost of rent and utilities, allowing you to keep some cash in your pocket.
20. Pay your bills on time.
Pay your bills on time so you don’t find yourself slammed with late fees and even worse, high interest. Staying organized can help you make sure your rent, utilities, tuition, and other bills are paid as needed.
21. Bank smart.
Choose a bank that helps you save. They can do this either by rounding up your debit card purchases and putting the money in savings or by taking a portion out of your checking account each week and putting it into your savings. Talk to your bank to see what savings services they offer for students.
22. Head to the library.
The local school library is the perfect place for free books, movies, music, and possibly even free tutoring or educational sessions.
23. Get crafty.
Try growing your own herbs, knitting your own scarves and hats, and doing your own home decor. When you use your own hands to make these things, you will spend less than buying the items new.
24. Skip the salon.
Instead, get together with friends to do your own manicures, hair coloring, and facials. If you need to see a pro, check out the local beauty college or be sure to use your student ID for savings.
25. Don’t forget this is temporary.
Working hard at saving may seem like tough work, but remind yourself that this is temporary. By saving now, you can enjoy not only a diploma when you graduate, but the fact that you have little to no debt.
If you are a college student or know someone who is, keep these tips on hand and see how easy it can be to enjoy the college life for less.
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