Three Ways to Save (And Still Have a Life)

Feel like you have a million expenses? Find ways to stretch your funds by taking advantage of what you have!

Seek and you shall find discounts

Student discounts are everywhere. Don't wait until you're out of school to realize how many special discounts you could have had.

Sign up for an ISIC card (International Student Identity Card) to get deals on everything from train tickets to food and entertainment. Available at Travelcuts or any travel agency.
Many organizations and services offer student rates. Even when you don't see "student deals!" in bold print, it's always worth asking.
A good place to start is at your bank, where you'll find lower service charges and other benefits available on special bank accounts for students.

Look into your school services

In September, you may be too overwhelmed to really go hunting. But as the year progresses, take the time to uncover the many available social, recreational and academic resources.

Most school packages include some form of health coverage, like a dental plan or prescription coverage.
Athletic fees in your tuition allow you to use the gym at a lower price or completely free. Aerobics or other classes are cheaper than going to the gym outside of school.
If you don't need those services, you may be eligible for a refund. Contact your student association or student union, look in your student handbook or investigate your school's website for more information.

Try the recycled route

Three cheers for used-book thrift stores! OK, maybe they're not that exciting. But seriously, what beats a $50 price tag on a $100 textbook?

Try a used bookstore on campus. Doesn't exist? Head off campus and dig through the dust of an independent used bookstore.
Try searching online for used books on Ebay, Powells.ca, or Adpost.ca
Some thrift stores carry furniture, clothing and other household stuff in addition to used books. These stores exist across Canada, even in small university towns.

Benefits of bargain hunting

Saving money doesn't have to come at the expense of a good time. By taking a little time, you can trim some expenses and have more money for the stuff you really want to buy.

Note: The links below will take you to sites outside the CIBC website. CIBC is not responsible for these sites, their services, or how they use information you give to them. Our privacy policy will not apply once you've left our website.

International Student Identity Card
Amazon
Ebay
Adpost Canada

The information in this article is general only; it is not intended as specific investment, financial, accounting, legal or tax advice for any individual.