College is expensive, but there are ways to save money and resources available at UD to help. Check out some tips below that can help boost your bank account—and put some extra cash back in your pocket.
 

Find a job or internship

The first way to save money is to make money! Find a part-time job on campus using Handshake. UD has on-campus jobs and screens thousands of employers who offer part-time jobs and paid internships for students seasonally and year-round. Additionally, you can check out local shops on Main Street, nearby restaurants or libraries to earn some income during your time in school.
 

Buy used textbooks

Textbooks can come with a hefty price tag. Buy used textbooks from the campus Barnes & Noble bookstore or search for discounted books on Amazon.
 

Sign up for a meal plan

The cost of eating out can add up quickly. A meal plan is worth the investment, and can keep you from spending at restaurants. Also skip the morning latte from the coffee shop and consider investing in a good coffee maker to save $5 a day.
 

Use the Lil Bob

Don't pay for a gym membership. Did you know the Lil Bob is free for all full-time undergraduate and graduate students, and available to part-time students for a small fee? Utilize their gym equipment and take laps in the indoor pool during open hours. On Saturdays, you can take group fitness classes for free—and make some friends! Other memberships are available for a low price. Just swipe your student ID to use any of the gym facilities. 
 

Take public transit

Insurance, gas and parking mean expenses. Leave the car back home and use our bus system. Get the app Double Map to help navigate the schedule and bus routes throughout the week. 
 

Check for student discounts

When shopping don’t forget discounts are available on everything from clothing to laptops for those with a valid student ID. For example, Apple and Adobe offer reduced prices on tech, while hundreds of big brands give money off on clothing. Try apps like Student Beans and UNiDAYS to find promo codes for all websites that offer student discounts. Local restaurants and chains often give money off on meals, so be sure to ask before you order. Even better, some services, like Spotify, offer student-specific rates which make it even cheaper to afford the content you want. 

Apply to scholarships

Some scholarships renew each year, and you may be eligible without knowing it. If you already have a scholarship, take the time to reapply, and be sure to get your forms and letters of recommendation in on time. Earning scholarships and grants can help you save money in college by covering more of your tuition and living expenses.
 

Contact Student Life units

If you're in more serious financial need or facing food insecurity, the Office of the Dean of Students can help. Reach out to learn more about the Student Crisis Fund. Additionally, Student Diversity & Inclusion has a Clothing Coop and food and supply pantry located within their Center for Intercultural Engagement in Perkins Room 261, as well as Mobile Food Pantry events in Lot 19 a few times each semester to offer free produce and canned goods.

This blog post was written by our Division of Student Life student intern Elliana Olivo.