College living is expensive, and the student budget is meager at best. Luckily, companies offer discounts and freebies to students who find themselves strapped for cash (besides the free college info found here, of course.)
Free Food
Food is often the first thought for many students. Restaurants and eateries around the campus area typically offer students discounts and specials nights. It’s not uncommon to discover “buy one, get one” or free appetizer specials. Coffee and sandwich shops also often offer punch cards which can be redeemed for free drinks or sandwiches. On-campus, most schools host student appreciation days where they offer lunches and clubs usually bolster members by offering free pizza to attendees.
Free Entertainment
Boredom often sets in once appetites become sated. Finding stuff to do doesn’t have to be costly. Campus radio stations host free shows or concert and event giveaways. Additionally, universities often offer events to students free-of-charge—literary discussions, movie screenings, and gallery exhibits are just a few totally free university-related events to occupy the time outside of class.
Free Business
Scholarly pursuits are important, but college is also a time to begin establishing a responsible financial platform after graduation. Banks offer several free student checking options and sometimes provide financial planning advice. Taxes are also important documents that must be taken seriously. Although filing can be overwhelming, several companies offer free IRS e-file for students along with other tax forms and information.
Free Supplies
Accurately filing taxes is essential for students who want to take the fullest advantage of school-based discounts, as all necessary supplies can be written-off come tax time. While loads of books and other costly materials students need aren’t free upfront, that cash can go back into their wallets in the form of larger tax returns.
And speaking of taxes, the IRS offers “Free File” prepares and files your federal income tax online for absolutely free. Visit the IRS website for more information.
Free Help
Although it seems overstated the free help students receive from on-campus writing and speaking centers can help instill valuable skills to make writing papers (and landing a job) much easier.
So, although most students find themselves frequently short on cash, there are luckily several options available, free of charge.
