How to Save Money as a Student: Discounts You Can’t Miss

As a student, saving money is always a priority, right? Luckily, there are tons of ways to stretch your budget, from local deals to online discounts. Whether you’re grabbing a bite, buying new tech, or treating yourself to some entertainment, there are discounts out there just waiting for you. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the best student discounts so you can make the most of your college years without breaking the bank.

Local Discounts You Shouldn’t Ignore

Did you know that many local businesses offer student discounts? It’s worth asking the next time you’re at a restaurant, retail store, or even a cinema. Flash your student ID and you might be surprised at how much you can save. Some places even have special “student days” where the deals are even better. 

Check out local entertainment spots like museums, theaters, or cinemas, too—they often give students discounted or free entry. So, next time you're planning a weekend outing, keep an eye on the flyers around campus or browse local business websites to see what’s available.

Online Discounts: Deals at Your Fingertips

Online shopping opens up a world of savings for students. From clothing to electronics, many major retailers offer exclusive student discounts. All you usually need is your school email or access to platforms like UNiDAYS or Student Beans to verify your status.

Shopping for new tech? Before you buy, check if the manufacturer or retailer offers student pricing. Whether it’s a laptop, software, or a subscription service, there are plenty of ways to get what you need for less.

Saving on Food and Groceries

Let’s face it—food is one of those sneaky expenses that adds up quickly. But there’s good news! Many grocery stores and food delivery services have student deals that can ease the burden on your wallet. Look for promo codes or special discounts when ordering food online, or ask about student pricing when you’re dining out.

Apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats often have special promotions for students, too. Keep an eye out—you’d be surprised how much you can save on a quick meal or your weekly grocery run.

Buy a discount DoorDash gift card

DoorDash gift card

Tech and Software on a Student Budget

In school, reliable technology isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Thankfully, companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Adobe offer student discounts on hardware, software, and subscriptions. So, whether you're after a new laptop, a tablet for note-taking, or essential software for your classes, check for student pricing first.

Even if you’re shopping for gadgets, it pays to do a little research. Some retailers offer student-exclusive deals, which can add up to significant savings over time.

Entertainment and Streaming for Less

Entertainment doesn’t have to be expensive when you’re a student. Major streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Prime all offer student subscription plans. This means you can enjoy music, movies, and TV shows without worrying about hefty monthly fees.

If you're more into live performances, keep an eye on theaters and concert venues—they often have discounted tickets for students. So, whether you’re streaming the latest season of your favorite show or attending a local gig, there’s always a way to save.

Buy a discount Hulu eGift card

Hulu gift card

Wrapping It All Up

Being a student is the perfect time to take advantage of all the discounts available to you. From local deals to online bargains, you can save on just about everything—from essentials like groceries and tech, to fun stuff like music and movies.

Don’t forget, you can stretch your savings even further by purchasing discount gift cards from sites like Gift Card Granny. Whether you’re shopping for clothes, electronics, or just about anything else, using a gift card can unlock even more savings. It’s an easy way to be a smarter shopper without sacrificing the things you love.

In the end, it’s all about being mindful of the opportunities around you. By keeping an eye out for discounts and using them wisely, you can enjoy life as a student without stressing over every penny.