The Hacks You Need to Know to Save Money as a Student

Hello savings 👋

It’s back to study szn. That means getting your head back into the books and knuckling down for another term.

It might mean less money if you've had to cut down hours at your casual/part-time job.

But that doesn't mean you still can’t add to your savings this sem. According to a recent survey we conducted, 67 per cent of our members are getting a tax return, with 43 per cent planning to save it (YouthInsight, 2024). So, we’ve broken down some good ways you can save money as a student 👇

Student discounts, baby.

Arguably one of the best benefits of student life are the discounts. You can get money off almost anything, from clothes to cinema tickets, so it’s important to check if there’s anything on offer when you make a purchase.

Did we mention Student Edge has a stack of sweet discounts and deals? You name it, we’ve probs got a code or a comp for it, so check it out here.

Student discounts don’t just mean free burgers or cheap software either – it also means getting concession cards for public transport. States and territories have their own rules so make sure you check first, but don’t miss out on travelling cheap with your student ID.

Take advantage of second-hand bargains and swaps.

Brand new textbooks can be pricey and there are usually heaps of people selling theirs online that have barely been used and you can pick up for a steal. Try Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace or even the e-book versions, which are usually cheaper.

Another option is to get swapping! This might take a bit more effort, but swapping is a win-win if you can find someone who needs a book you’ve got and has a book you need.

Student Edge surveys.

If you need some $$$, Student Edge surveys are a great way to earn some extra spending money or top up your savings. By completing our surveys, you’ll earn Edge Credits, which can be redeemed for cash via PayPal or gift cards from your fav brands like Coles, Kmart, Apple, Target or Woolies. 

Pack your lunch.

I know what you’re thinking – who can be bothered?! But just making the effort to get up a little earlier and make your own lunch each day will literally save you so much!

Plan out your meals each week, chat with your parents about your ideas and work it into their shopping list. This way, you can practice your cooking skills and get super creative with the contents of your lunch box. Plus, it’s likely to be way healthier too.

Set a budget.

Easier said than done, I get it. But ultimately, if you’re going to save money, you need to know where your cash is being splashed and how you can rein it in.

It doesn’t need to be scary and you don’t need to be a whiz at spreadsheets to get a handle on your expenses. Just write down how much money you’ve got coming in and what necessary payments you have to make – that includes phone bills, transport and food. Then you can work out what you have left over to spend on social events and what you can save for your next big purchase or travel adventure.

Sometimes things might not go to plan and that’s OK! Just do the best you can.

A little will go a long way, so take it one step at a time and you’ll be hitting savings goals before you know it.