College
Tips for College Students to Save Money
Read our tips on buying textbooks, budgeting, dining, credit cards, debit cards, and bank accounts.
MEFA recently participated in the Education Finance Council (EFC)'s monthly Twitter chat, which provided college students with smart money-saving tips. We've include some highlights from the chat below. Pass them along to your favorite student heading to campus this fall.
On buying textbooks:
- Buy used books, or rent them if possible
- Check out chegg.com for both rentals and purchases
- Share books with classmates
- Check cheapesttextbooks.com to find a comparison of textbook sites
- Check out books from the library
- Consider an Amazon Student Membership
On budgeting:
- Find a budget tracking system that works for you, and be consistent. Use phone apps such as Pocket Budget or Mint, or use a simple Excel spreadsheet.
- Budgets are like goals. They must first be attainable to be successful. Don't exaggerate debt or income.
- Plan ahead for bigger expenses, such as gifts, spring break, or an upcoming concert.
On dining:
- Use your meal plan – you've already paid for it!
- Eat free whenever possible – including leftovers from family visits
- Buy groceries for cheaper in bulk and split them with friends
- Make your own coffee
- Purchase light groceries for your dorm room
On credit cards, debit cards, and bank accounts:
- A credit card can help build your credit, but only use it if you can pay the balance in full each month
- Check to see what bank is on campus and open an account there for easy access to funds
- Be aware of your debit balance before you buy – overdraft fees can be significant
- Avoid any accounts and cards with monthly or annual fees
Do you have other tips to help college students save money? Share them with us! We're always listening on Facebook and Twitter.
Sign Up for Emails
Sign up for relevant, helpful college planning emails.