Between your studies and your social life, theres a lot competing for your time and attention in college.
Still, you cant forget aboutyour finances.
Youre not in high school anymore youre an adult in charge of your financial future.
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That means youre going to have to dedicate some of your focus to proper money management.
While saving money in college may be challenging, its not impossible.
It just takes some determination and drive.
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Save Money on College Education Expenses
Getting an education isnt cheap.
But there are ways to save money by cutting down the costs of tuition, books and supplies.
1.Consider attending community college and then transferring to a four-year schoolto lower your cost of tuition.
Or look into attending a public university instead of a private one to save money.
4.Apply for scholarships and grantsto help cover the costs of tuition, room and board.
5.Get textbooks onlineinstead of at the (often overpriced) campus bookstore.
you’ve got the option to buy or rent books for less on sites likeAmazonorChegg.
7.see if your campus library has the book you needbefore buying or renting it.
9.Shop for school supplies during tax-free holidaysbefore school starts.
These tax-free days usually occur in July or August.
In 2024, 21 states heldback-to-school tax-free holidays.
Whether youre living on campus or off, here are some tips to save money on college living costs.
11.Dont assume living on campus will be cheaper.Crunch the numbers.
Or if you attend college near your hometown, live at home to really cut costs.
12.Become a resident assistantto get your living expenses covered.
Some schools even pay resident assistants a small stipend.
13.Instead of buying wall art or desk accessories, make your ownDIY dorm decor.
15.Create agraduation registryso that loved ones can purchase needed dorm supplies for you as a high school graduation gift.
16.Reduce the cost of monthly bills, like cable and utilities.
Lower your utility costs by conserving energy.
17.Get a roommate or roommates to split the cost of rent and utilities.
You should also check that youre on the same page on things like utility use and having guests over.
Shop around for the best deal by getting quotes from multiple companies.
21.Bring your own snackswith you when youre out for the day.
Youll avoid overpriced vending machines or convenience store treats.
22.Avoid dining out at restaurants or ordering takeout food.Instead, make the most of your meal plan.
Buy them in bulk for additional savings.
Ramen noodles, PB&J and oatmeal are other classic cheap meals.
Drowning in Expenses?
Maybe youre scrambling after your car broke down.
Or you got a medical bill you werent expecting.
Or inflation has finally pushed your budget over the edge.
You dont need to go it alone.
When money is tight,these resourcescan help you manage unexpected expenses without stress.
Make your own coffee.
If youre of legal drinking age, buy your own alcohol to avoid bar prices.
26.If you do dine out, visit restaurants or bars during happy houror when they have special discounted prices.
Some establishments may provide discounts for students, so ensure you bring your college ID.
you could also find deals on Groupon to save some money on your bill.
27.Get a side gig as amystery shopperto get paid or at least reimbursed to dine out.
Here are some tips to save money on transportation.
28.Walk, bike, take campus shuttles or use public transportationinstead of bringing a car to school.
Your student ID may score you discounted bus or train fares.
29.When you take Uber or Lyft, use the shared ride functionfor a lower fare.
Also, see to it to keep up with maintenance.
Cars that arent well-maintained may face more expensive repairs down the line.
31.Use apps likeGas Buddyto find cheaper gas when you fill up.
32.Limit trips homeif you dont live close to your college campus.
Or take a bus or train instead of flying home.
Riding Greyhound could significantly lower your travel costs.
Here are a few ways to save money while also having fun.
33.Take advantage of your local library.Public librariesoffer more than just free books.
You could check out passes to museums or stream your favorite movies or TV shows with your library card.
35.Have fun at home.Indulge in cheap entertainment by hosting movie nights or game nights.
Make Money to Increase Your Savings
Your No.
Here are some options for earning cash while youre in school.
37.Get a part-time jobon campus or close to school.
38.Start a side hustlelikedelivering groceries with Shipt or Instacartor doing odd jobs onTaskRabbit.
39.Tutor other studentson campus or students at a local high school or middle school.
40.Get a gig as a babysitter or nannyover Christmas break or during the summer.
42.Start a blogand monetize it.
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45.Avoid overdraft feesby linking your student checking account to a savings account and signing up for overdraft protection.
Just confirm theres money in your savings account to cover any needed overdraft transfers.
46.Be responsible about credit cards.Dont sign up for all the credit card offers that come your way.
give a shot to get the lowest interest rate you’re free to.
47.Automate your bill payments, so you dont have to worry about remembering due dates.
You dont want to forget to pay your cell phone bill and get hit with a late fee.
Know the difference between wants and needs, and focus on having a solid financial future.
Nicole Dow is a former senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
