Starting college is exciting, but it also brings new responsibilities, especially when it comes to managing money. Between housing, food, books and social plans, expenses can pile up quickly if you’re not careful.
Whether you’re living on campus or commuting, building smart habits now can help you stay on top of your finances all semester long. Here are a few tips to make your money go further while you’re in school.
Meal plans aren’t one-size-fits-all. Before choosing one, think about how often you’ll eat on campus and what kind of meals you prefer. Will you cook sometimes? Grab takeout with friends? Or rely mostly on the dining hall?
Choose the plan that fits your routine and appetite, not just the one with the fanciest name. Check whether the plan is a full-year commitment or if it can be adjusted each semester. A little planning upfront can help you avoid overpaying for meals you don’t end up eating.
Textbooks can get expensive fast, but there are plenty of ways to save. Look into renting, buying used or purchasing digital versions if available. Before heading to the campus bookstore, compare prices online because you might find the same book for less through a trusted retailer. While pursuing my bachelor’s degree, I saved a lot by renting and using e-books when they were available. A little research ahead of time can make a big difference for your budget each semester.
One of the best things about being a student is the discounts. Tons of places—both online and local—offer reduced pricing on subscriptions, services, software and entertainment if you have a valid student ID or .edu email address.
Spotify, Amazon, Apple, Adobe and even some clothing stores offer student pricing. I always recommend checking UniDays or Student Beans for deals before buying anything. It’s worth the extra time, because the money saved can be put towards bigger expenses like student loan payments or your spring break fund.
Managing your money in college doesn’t have to be complicated. Opening a debit or credit card with BridhgBridge gives you access to powerful card management tools designed to help you stay on top of your spending. With 24/7 features like tracking purchases, setting spending limits, activating a new card, updating your PIN or even reporting a lost card, you’ll have the flexibility and control you need right at your fingertips.
Start smart with a student card today!
Category: Budgeting & Debt Reduction
Need a smart strategy to save on essential school supplies? Planning your dream vacation or gearing up for the holiday season? With a club account, you can save for essential school supplies, exciting vacations, and joyful holiday celebrations, making your financial goals more attainable and stress-free.
Now is the moment to turn your attention to your tax obligations. With less than 60 days remaining until the tax deadline now is a good time to prepare your documents and file.
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Planning a dream vacation? Whether you're headed to Disney, exploring Europe or hiking through national parks, trips can come with big price tags. Between flights, accommodations, meals and activities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you even start packing.
The good news is that we’ve got your back when things get stressful. With a clear plan and a few smart habits, you can take that trip without putting unnecessary strain on your budget or dealing with post-vacation regret. It just takes a little preparation and consistency.
Here’s how to make it happen:
Starting college is exciting, but it also brings new responsibilities, especially when it comes to managing money. Between housing, food, books and social plans, expenses can pile up quickly if you’re not careful.
Whether you’re living on campus or commuting, building smart habits now can help you stay on top of your finances all semester long. Here are a few tips to make your money go further while you’re in school.
Life is unpredictable and you can be responsible for unexpected expenses at any moment. Whether it is a broken appliance, a minor accident or an urgent vet bill, having a financial cushion can make all the difference. An emergency fund acts as your safety net, helping you manage these surprises without stress or debt.