Finances

Ways to save money in college: 8 simple tips that work

Do you think it's hard to save money while you're in college? Not anymore! After reading these simple tips, you'll see it is possible.

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Start saving hundreds of dollars in college a month with these simple steps

piggy bank college
Simple ways to save money in college. Source: Adobe Stock.

This article will show you simple ways to save money in college that you didn’t know you needed.

We know you’re probably worried about your grades more than anything right now, but believe it: saving money is as important as graduating.

College years are intense. It is so much fun, but also so much struggle to get everything into your schedule.

You have to study, attend classes, work on essays, sometimes work on a job, eat, exercise… It’s a lot! 

But you have to find a spot on your schedule to think about your finances and organize them. And it doesn’t have to be complicated.

With these simple tips, you will learn how to save money in college and make your emergency fund, your investment fund, or any other funds you want to.  Let’s do this!

Learn the most effective ways to save in money college

boy saving money
Start saving money during college. Source: Adobe Stock.

It is never too soon to start saving money. Even a little amount per month can help you educate yourself about finances and develop the discipline you need to be a responsible adult.

So as a good student, take notes and pay attention to one of the most important lessons of your college years: how to save money.

BUDGET: one of the primary ways to save money in college

First things first. There is absolutely no way to make anything with your finances if you don’t know how much you earn, how much you spend, and how much you should be spending.

It will demand some time and attention, but it will be worth it and its a simple ways to help you save money in college

Once you make your budget, you just have to stick to it. There are dozens of apps on the google play store and apple store that will make it a lot easier.

You’ll have to take care of your finances for the rest of your life, and if everything goes right, this means forty, fifty, or sixty years. 

Give preference to using free accounts and cards.

While you’re still a college student, you don’t need a fancy credit card or a checking account full of features you may not even use.

Chose a simple checking account with a debit card to use your money and manage your expenses.

If you’d like to have a credit card, pick one with no annual or monthly fees.

As soon as you graduate and start making more money with your professional career, you can upgrade to a more robust account.

Buy second-hand

As soon as you start college, you’ll get a list of books you’ll have to buy. But if you look for these books in bookstores, you will have an unpleasant surprise and will be hard to save money in college

New books can be expensive. Luckily, you can find a lot of these books to buy from other students that don’t need them anymore.

It will cost you way less, and you’ll save a good amount. You can also rent or look for them at public libraries. 

Cut expenses with housing and meals

meal college
Make your own meal to save money in college. Source: Freepik.

Even if you’d prefer to live in your own loft or have a room for yourself, it will cost you more. Usually, if you choose student accommodation on campus, it will be less expensive.

There is the possibility of splitting a room with a roommate and saving even more money. You’ll have a lot of time in your life to live in the best house you wish to.

Another pitfall to be careful about is asking for delivery every day or going out for dinner. Most universities offer meals on the campus that are affordable.

If you have a kitchen available, choose to cook your own meals. 

Student discounts as one of the ways to save money in college

Many places offer discounts to students. You can find many different things, from meals to clothing. Even computers and tickets for cultural events.

Also, online streaming services have better prices for students. All you need is proof of school enrollment. So, don’t forget your student ID every time you go out.

Think twice before buying a car

Having their own car is a dream for many people. Go out with your friends around the town and feel the freedom of a road trip.

But a car can be an expensive thing to possess and will not help you to save money in college.

First, you’ll pay thousands of dollars for it. Second, you’ll have to pay the insurance and periodic maintenance. And also, don’t forget that the car needs gas to move around. Is it worth it?

If you live on the campus, there is no need for a car. And if you don’t, you can always use the bus or subway or ask a friend for a ride and split gas.

Many cities offer student passes that make public transportation cost half the price or even nothing.

Parties and beverages can be expensive

Hollywood has popularized college as a place with awesome parties and a lot of fun. Everybody is young, free, and willing to enjoy life. But be careful.

If you intend to save money, you’ll have to choose which parties you’d like to attend and deny others. It’s not like you should abstain from all fun.

It is important to have good moments with your friends too. But don’t let it drain your money and your energy. 

Open a savings account and set an auto-transfer

Now that you have taken action and made adjustments to your lifestyle to cut expenses, it is time to put your savings in a safer place. A savings account is an excellent way to start.

You’ll earn interest on your savings, and your money will start to grow. And a good way to do it is to set a direct deposit as a monthly automated transfer.

If you want more tips on how to save money, follow the link below!

piggybank

Start saving money like a pro: learn how!

Learn how to easily save money in order to build up your savings with our useful tips!

About the author  /  Aline Barbosa

Aline Barbosa is an editor, writer and learning-enthusiast. Passionate about music, books and human behavior. Curious about the unknown. Believer that learning is a life-long process.

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