04 Sep
2010

If you go to college, your tuition costs cover a lot more than just school and classes. You can also often save just by being a student, especially if you save using:

1) Services costs. Schools provide all sorts of services at no charge to students. You could be eligible for free counseling, career counseling, academic counseling, and other services. You may also have free access to legal help, doctors, tax preparers, and more. Contact your student association or student union to find out what services are offered to students at no charge and take advantage of these services, if you need them. It makes more sense to take advantage of free services rather than to get deeper in student debt by paying for these services elsewhere.

2) Insurance coverage. Your tuition may cover term life insurance, dental coverage, health care, and more. Read the fine print or call your local student union to find out more. If you already have insurance, you may want to opt out of some insurance to pay less in tuition, or switch to your school insurance to avoid paying twice.

3) Freebies. Contact your student union or student association to find out about freebies that you qualify for. In most cases, you will get free samples, calendars, and other accessories for free. Most schools also offer free concerts, refreshments, film screenings, and more.

4) Student status. Make sure you carry your school ID with you off-campus as well. Many businesses – including most museums and movie theaters – have special rates for students that can save you money.

5) On-campus perks. Explore your campus to find out what perks are available to you. You may have access to libraries, free computer access, free or inexpensive printing services, gym membership, and more.