College is expensive. Eligible students can receive grants, loans and scholarships. Some students receive financial help from their parents, while others have to work their way through school. Thankfully, my mom helped me to pay for school while I was in college. I was fortunate enough to be able to rely on my family for extra cash throughout the school year after I had used all the money I had saved while working over the summer. However, money doesn't grow on trees, and I knew I had to use it wisely. As a result, I learned many tricks to save every precious penny I could.
1. Shop at the Dollar Store.
The Dollar Store is great for cheap snacks like chips, pretzels, cereal, cookies, cleaning supplies for the kitchen and bathroom, shampoo and conditioner, razors, Tupperware, sandwich bags and school supplies. You can also celebrate holidays away from home with affordable holiday decorations.
2. Buy grocery store brand items instead of name brand items.
I did most of my shopping at Wal-Mart, so I bought the Wal-Mart brand food (frozen food, milk, coffee creamer, bread). I also usually bought cold medicine or allergy pills.
3. Use your meal plan.
Manage your meal plan throughout each semester, so you don't run out of meals and have to spend money buying food off campus.
4. Become a Resident Assistant.
Save money on housing and live on campus for free by becoming a RA.
5. Cut coupons.
Flip through a newspaper or search the Internet and apps for relevant coupons for discounts.
6. Shop in clearance sections.
You can find awesome deals and save a ton of money in the clearance section. Can't find anything in clearance? There is a good chance the item you want will eventually be marked down, you just have to wait it out.
7. Shop at thrift stores.
The Salvation Army and Goodwill are both great places to sift through racks of clothing and uncover hidden treasures at a low price.
8. Rent or buy used textbooks.
Used textbooks are cheaper, and renting a textbook saves a lot of money. Additionally, some textbooks can be purchased or rented digitally at a lower price.
9. Make your own coffee.
Five dollars could buy you a cup of coffee from Starbucks, or it could buy you a can of coffee grounds that will last nearly a month.
10. Use your school ID to get discounts.
Some restaraunts and businesses will give students a discount. You can find a list of participating businesses here.
