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Originally Posted On: https://ulearning.com/15230/how-to-save-money-in-college-6-easy-ways/

Did you know that American college graduates owe over $1.6 trillion in student loan debt?

If you’re getting ready for this exciting phase of your life and you want to minimize your debt, learning how to save money in college is crucial.

Are you ready to start saving for a brighter future without having to sacrifice fun experiences? Keep reading for 6 money-saving tips for college students.

1. Take Advantage of Your School’s Amenities

One of the easiest ways to save money in college is to use all of your school’s amenities to the fullest. For example, instead of paying for a gym membership, check out the fitness facilities on campus. Not only will you save money on these services, but you’ll also spend less on transportation if you stay on campus more.

2. Consider Getting a Job on Campus

Saving money as a student is a lot easier when you have a job. Your studies should always come first, which is why searching for a job on campus designed for students will ensure your hours are reasonable. This could involve working in your campus coffee shop, being a teacher’s assistant, or even becoming an RA to score free room and board.

3. Be Savvy With Your Textbook Expenses

Saving money in college can feel like an impossible feat when a single textbook can cost hundreds of dollars. The good news is that you have plenty of options, such as renting your books, trying to find free PDFs online, and sharing with friends. If you do buy textbooks, don’t forget that you can sell used books online and get a great return on your original purchase.

4. Weigh the Pros and Cons of Your Meal Plan

Extensive meal plans can be fast and delicious, but this convenience often comes at a high price. If you live in an apartment with a kitchen or your dorm building has a community kitchen, college is the perfect time to learn how to cook for yourself. It may not sound like much, but you’ll be amazed by how much less money you spend buying your own ingredients.

5. Research Businesses That Offer Student Discounts

Another simple way you can save money as a student is to search for businesses that offer discounts when you show your ID. Whether you’re going to the movies, out to eat, or to a museum, always ask if there’s a student discount before you make a purchase.

6. Be a Smart Grocery Shopper

While it’s true that cooking for yourself does tend to be a lot cheaper, you have to be a smart shopper to keep these costs low. Avoiding shopping on an empty stomach will help you stick to your grocery list. Other tricks like buying generic brands and sticking with wholesome, cheap ingredients like rice and beans can help you avoid living off of ramen.

Now You Know How to Save Money in College

If you follow these 6 tips, figuring out how to save money in college will be a breeze.

Do you want to learn other ways you can make the most out of your college experience? Make sure you explore our site to find more helpful resources.