Money Saving Tips for College Students

Money-Saving Tips for College Students



(ARA) - College is expensive, and we're not just talking about tuition. That may be the biggest chunk, but when you think about it, college kids are basically setting up a second household, and incurring all the expenses that go along with that, from rent if they're living off campus, to long-distance phone service. Students heading off to college need to furnish their dorm rooms or apartments, which means buying everything from sheets to coffeemakers to futons. And state-of-the-art electronics are a given, such as laptop computers, MP3 players, stereo systems, even flat screen televisions. But despite having all the comforts of home, college students also need money to spend on socializing - movies, pizza and concerts, for example. All of this adds up, for both parents and students. But there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing the college experience. Here are a few tips. * Shop wisely -Big box retailers are great sources of basics like bedding and kitchen supplies. Keep your eye on the weekly ads to get an even better deal. * Take advantage of student discounts - Some computer manufacturers offer discounts to students on hardware and software. Your school may also have a discount program with manufacturers. * Use your student I.D. - Many businesses offer student discounts or special student nights. Check local restaurants and movie theaters to find these deals. * Put technology to work - Students can save on their long-distance phone bills by using a voice over IP (VoIP) network like voip.com that provides telephone service via a broadband computer connection. The company's $19.95 premium calling plan provides unlimited local and long distance calling anywhere in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. >nbsp;The plan includes voicemail, call waiting, caller I.D. and call forwarding. You can try the service free for 31 days. Just visit voip.com to take advantage of this offer. * Shop and save - Buying a coffee on the way to class everyday or heading to the local pizza joint for a late-night snack can add up. Set your alarm so you can make a pot of coffee and grab a cup as you head to class. And keep a stash of snacks on hand as well. It is possible to save money, do well in school and have fun all at the same time. Copyright >copy; 2006, ARA Content

(ARA) - College is expensive, and we're not just talking about tuition. That may be the biggest chunk, but when you think about it, college kids are basically setting up a second household, and incurring all the expenses that go along with that, from rent if they're living off campus, to long-distance phone service.

Students heading off to college need to furnish their dorm rooms or apartments, which means buying everything from sheets to coffeemakers to futons. And state-of-the-art electronics are a given, such as laptop computers, MP3 players, stereo systems, even flat screen televisions. But despite having all the comforts of home, college students also need money to spend on socializing - movies, pizza and concerts, for example.

All of this adds up, for both parents and students. But there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing the college experience. Here are a few tips.

* Shop wisely -Big box retailers are great sources of basics like bedding and kitchen supplies. Keep your eye on the weekly ads to get an even better deal.

* Take advantage of student discounts - Some computer manufacturers offer discounts to students on hardware and software. Your school may also have a discount program with manufacturers.

* Use your student I.D. - Many businesses offer student discounts or special student nights. Check local restaurants and movie theaters to find these deals.

* Put technology to work - Students can save on their long-distance phone bills by using a voice over IP (VoIP) network like voip.com that provides telephone service via a broadband computer connection. The company's $19.95 premium calling plan provides unlimited local and long distance calling anywhere in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. >nbsp;The plan includes voicemail, call waiting, caller I.D. and call forwarding. You can try the service free for 31 days. Just visit voip.com to take advantage of this offer.

* Shop and save - Buying a coffee on the way to class everyday or heading to the local pizza joint for a late-night snack can add up. Set your alarm so you can make a pot of coffee and grab a cup as you head to class. And keep a stash of snacks on hand as well.

It is possible to save money, do well in school and have fun all at the same time.

Copyright >copy; 2006, ARA Content