10 Things Colleges Give You for Free

Attending a four-year college or university to obtain a bachelor’s degree costs thousands of dollars. So students should consider the free services their potential schools will offer. Here’s a list of freebies that schools offer to students, which aren’t always broadcast to freshman entrants.

Computer Software

Even though some companies offer a bundle service with new computers to cover programs like Microsoft products and malware protection, your college probably offers the same IT package for free. Check your college’s IT department to see which software programs you have access to.

Printing

Take advantage of free printing. There is no need to buy a personal printer and keep up with expensive toner costs when your college gives you about 100 or more free pages a semester.

Food

This doesn’t include the cafeteria. Finding free food on campus is typically about being in the right place at the right time, although students have created an app that helps other students find free food on their campus.

Schools within colleges frequently host free lunches as well. Student organizations also offer free snacks to encourage others to attend their meetings. Plus, sometimes there’s a free dinner when someone important shows up on campus.

T-shirts

Schools want their students to wear their pride everywhere they go. Free t-shirts mean free advertising for them. Grab a shirt at every function you go to and you won’t have to bring as many clothes from home.

Public Transportation

Students who are living off-campus should add this to their pro/con list. Some schools partner with local transportation to allow students free access on the city bus.

Massages

Get some peace of mind. If your school has a health program, there’s a good chance the students are trying to come up with sustainable ideas for better long-term health. Look for their events on campus. Some schools offer free counseling while others offer free massages and yoga sessions, especially during finals week.

Tutoring

There’s no need to stress and struggle through a class you don’t understand. Many colleges offer free tutoring services by other students (and if you aren’t in need of a tutor, you could get paid to be the tutor). Colleges want their students to do well, so they will equip you with the tools to do so.

Bed Sheets

Gathering supplies for a dorm room can be expensive. Don’t forget the necessities. Ask your dorm director if there are sheets available so you don’t have to inherit the additional cost.

Newspapers

Yes, newspapers still are relevant. And although most papers also have a digital app for readers to view on their phones or tablets, the communications and business schools probably have multiple big-name newspapers for students. Also, the school may have a deal with some newspapers to give students discounted subscriptions.

Gym Memberships

Maybe not a membership per se, but there is a gym on campus that’s probably free for students to use. That perk goes away after graduation. Get fit for free while you can.