It may seem odd that companies chase after college students — after all, students usually aren’t rolling in cash.
Still, businesses understand that winning you over as you gain independence can pay off later, once you graduate, start earning a full-time salary and take charge of your own finances. Plus, students tend to be digitally fluent and active on social media, which makes them valuable to brands.
Smart marketers know the key to getting students’ attention: discounts. So grab your student ID and your .edu email, and explore the many deals available exclusively to students. For more ways to save, don’t forget to check out college student discounts.
Entertainment
College life needs downtime. Why not bring students in early with attractive offers?
1. Movie Tickets
Theater chains that provide student savings include AMC Theatres (amounts vary by theater), Cinemark (location-dependent) and Marcus Theatres ($6 on Thursdays). Independent cinemas commonly offer student rates too — a quick phone call can tell you.
2. The Arts
Students often receive reduced admission to museums, including big institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC. If you’re thinking about an evening at the opera, symphony, theater or ballet, those organizations frequently have student pricing as well. Always check before purchasing tickets.
3. Professional Sports
Some professional teams run special student promotions or lower-priced seating on select dates. Look at team websites for current deals before you buy.
Secondary marketplaces such as SeatGeek and StubHub can also help you find less expensive tickets. They’re not student-specific offers, but it’s worth comparing to see which option saves the most money.
Computers, Software and School Supplies
Students require laptops, peripherals and other tech to stay on top of coursework. Companies often use student pricing to build brand loyalty early.
4. Hardware
Brands like Apple, Microsoft, Dell, Best Buy, HP and Lenovo offer student pricing on devices, so there’s no need to pay full retail.
5. Software
Your campus bookstore or IT office often sells software at student-friendly rates.
- Microsoft Office 365 is free for students who have a valid school email
- Adobe offers Creative Cloud to students for about $10 per month instead of $50 with a valid school email
- Amazon provides discounted software options for students
6. News
Students can get cheaper subscriptions to digital and print outlets like The Economist, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.
7. Textbooks
Even as e-texts grow, many classes still require hardcopy textbooks. Numerous websites help you find bargains on used books and let you resell them later. Barnes & Noble also runs a textbook rental service.
Travel and Transportation
Whether it’s spring break or heading home, students can save significantly on travel costs by using these strategies.
8. Lodging and Airfare
If you travel frequently during college, think about obtaining a student ID or discount card. Also explore websites that list airfare and hotel savings specifically for students.
9. Car Rentals
Presenting your student ID at big rental outfits like Budget, Avis and Hertz can shave up to about 20% off rates. Keep in mind that age minimums may apply.
10. Buses, Trains and Planes
Amtrak and Greyhound run student programs, although Greyhound’s discount typically requires a Student Advantage card. Some local transit systems, like the MTA in Chicago, also provide reduced fares for students. For European travel, a Eurail pass is cheaper for travelers under 27.
11. Cars and Insurance
Purchasing a used car is often the most budget-friendly option. If you’re looking at new vehicles, investigate the General Motors college discount. Many insurers also offer student discounts, so compare quotes to find the best plan.
Other Shopping
Cutting costs on everyday purchases is essential for students. Here are additional ways to pinch pennies.
12. Upromise
If you’re saving for tuition—yours or a family member’s—or you have loans from Sallie Mae, consider signing up for Upromise to earn cash back toward education expenses. You can also share your referral links with relatives and friends to accumulate rewards faster.
13. Amazon
Look into Amazon’s student program for free two-day shipping and other exclusive discounts. Membership perks often include Twitch Prime, Prime Video and more.
14. Clothes and Retail
Many apparel retailers provide student discounts. Brands like Banana Republic and J. Crew can help you dress for interviews or internships. For a broader list, see this roundup of student-friendly retail stores.
Banking, Budgets and Credit
Managing money well is part of adulthood. These resources can help students learn financial basics affordably.
15. Banking
Looking for a checking or savings account? Numerous banks have attractive sign-on bonuses and student-targeted accounts at institutions such as Bank of America, U.S. Bank and Chase. Watch out for maintenance and overdraft charges, since those can add up.
16. Credit Cards
Many issuers provide student-specific credit cards, but don’t be swayed only by introductory perks. The ongoing interest rate is what will really affect your wallet.
17. Budgeting
You Need a Budget offers free access to students for one year, so there’s no excuse not to start tracking your spending.
Freebies on Campus
Often you don’t have to go far to score excellent deals. Here are freebies and low-cost perks available right on campus.
18. Food
If you’re on a meal plan, maximize its value. Grab fruit or cereal to take later if your dining hall allows it. Also watch for free food at open houses, guest lectures and student organization events.
19. Events
Beyond pep rallies and intramurals, campuses host many complimentary educational events and lectures that are open to students.
20. Health and Fitness
Use the campus recreation center while you can — free access often ends after graduation. Take advantage of your school health center’s services, including complimentary bandages, condoms and tissues.
21. Promotional Stuff
Here’s an odd but useful tip: Most departments hand out promotional pens, and you can amass quite a collection. Also keep an eye out for free T-shirts and other campus swag.
Keep this in mind: being a student doesn’t last forever. It never hurts to ask whether a business offers a student discount — always carry your ID.
