College life is full of new opportunities and new expenses. Between tuition, textbooks, food, and fun, it can feel like your budget disappears fast. The good news? With the right strategies, you can save money, earn a little extra, and stretch your budget without missing out on the things you love.
Here are five easy ways to spend less and save more at college.
1. Participate in paid research studies
Not every side hustle has to take hours out of your week. Many universities, including the University of Maryland, regularly run paid research studies that are quick, flexible, and surprisingly well-compensated. Departments like psychology, sociology, or health sciences often need participants for short studies that pay anywhere from $10 to $30 an hour.
The best part? These opportunities usually fit neatly between classes and require little more than showing up and participating. Start by checking your school’s research bulletin board or departmental websites. You’ll often find new listings posted every semester.
2. Take advantage of student discounts
Your student ID is more powerful than you might realize. Flash it, and you can unlock savings on everything from your favorite brands to everyday essentials. These can include:
- Clothing and beauty: 10% off Hollister, 15% off Fenty Beauty
- Entertainment: 50% off HBO Max, Apple Music, and Spotify
- Tech: Special student pricing for Apple, Microsoft, and Adobe
- Food: Many restaurants near campus offer student deals, you just have to ask
To make the most of these deals, sign up with your school email on discount hubs like UniDAYS or Student Beans.
And don’t forget about bundled offers. Right now, Spotify, Hulu, and Showtime are packaged for $5/month with a student email. Small savings like these can add up quickly!
3. Apply for flexible part-time jobs
For students with a job, flexibility is key. On-campus jobs often offer the best fit because they’re designed with student schedules in mind. Tutoring, working as a learning assistant, staffing the recreation center or library, or giving campus tours are all solid options that allow you to earn while you learn. Some positions even come with hidden perks, like free meals or access to campus events.
Consider looking into federal work-study programs. If you’re eligible, these opportunities are often easier to secure, offer valuable experience, and give you a reliable paycheck without overwhelming your schedule.
4. Look for free perks and events on campus
Free food and SWAG are a staple of campus life. You just need to know where to look.
- Club meetings often provide pizza or snacks
- Lunch-and-learns include meals in exchange for attending
- Campus fairs and events hand out freebies like shirts, mugs, and gift cards
Stay ahead by bookmarking your school’s events calendar and following student organizations on social media. That way, you’ll know when the next free opportunity is around the corner.
Beyond events, don’t forget about the built-in perks your tuition is already covering. Campus gyms, counseling services, and even printing credits often go unused but can save you money every month.
5. Open a student card or banking account
Opening a student debit card or student checking account bonus can give you immediate perks and future benefits.
Look for:
- No annual fee cards
- Rewards on gas, groceries, and streaming
- Sign-up bonuses or referral rewards
At UMD, SECU offers the Terps debit card, which includes:
- $100 for signing up
- $50 for every friend you refer
- Discounts at select College Park restaurants
Smart money tips for college students: Save more, stress less
Managing money in college doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right mix of smart budgeting, free perks, and student discounts, you can stretch your budget further than you think. And by starting to build credit now with a student card or account, you’ll set yourself up for long-term financial success after graduation.
Ready to get started? Check out SECU’s UMD student offers here.
How to save money in college FAQs
We’ve rounded up some of the most common questions students ask about their finances, and given you our best answers below.
Which type of credit card is best for students?
The right student credit card should be simple, affordable, and rewarding. Look for one with no annual fee, straightforward cash-back rewards for things you already spend money on (like groceries, gas, or streaming services) and ideally, a sign-up bonus.
Cards designed specifically for students are usually easier to qualify for without a credit history, making them a smart first step toward building financial independence.
What is the 50/30/20 rule for college students?
This popular budgeting method breaks your money into three easy buckets: 50% for needs (rent, food, and bills), 30% for wants (going out or streaming subscriptions), and 20% for savings or debt repayment. You may not hit those percentages exactly, but the framework gives you a clear roadmap to prioritize your spending.
How can I save money in college without working?
It’s possible to stretch your budget even if you don’t have a job. Lean on student discounts wherever you shop, apply for small scholarships throughout the year, and keep an eye on free events around campus for meals, giveaways, and entertainment. You can also cut costs by renting or buying used textbooks and sticking to a simple budget that helps you track everyday expenses.
How can I make $500–$1000 a month as a student?
Most students hit this range by combining a part-time job with side hustles. Even small streams of income add up quickly when you stack them together.
What are some easy budgeting tips for college students?
Start with the basics. Use a free budgeting app to track your spending, meal-prep instead of eating out, and walk or use campus shuttles before defaulting to rideshare. Even setting aside just $10 a week into savings can make a difference over time and build the habit of paying yourself first.
How can I save money in college without cutting fun?
You don’t have to give up fun to stick to your budget. You just have to be intentional. Split streaming services with roommates, choose free or low-cost campus events over pricier outings, and take advantage of student discounts on dining and entertainment. That way, you can still enjoy yourself while keeping your finances on track.
