Cut down on subscriptions

Think about what you actually need. Do you really have to pay for Dropbox, Storytel, or Tinder Plus/Gold? Try splitting the cost of Netflix, Spotify, and similar services with friends instead.

Use the library

This amazing cultural space is totally underrated – whether you love reading or just want access to free textbooks, the library is your friend.

Buy second-hand - yes, even textbooks

Think twice before buying something new. Maybe you can get it used? Buying second-hand textbooks can help you save a big chunk of your student grant. It’s good for your wallet and good for the environment.

Smart grocery shopping

  • Only do your grocery shopping once a week.
  • Plan your meals in advance and buy ingredients you can use in several dishes that week. For inspiration, check out the app Sulten in the App Store or Google Play.
  • Make a shopping list – and stick to it. It’ll help you avoid expensive impulse buys.
  • Always check the price per kilo when comparing products.
  • And don’t forget to use the Mattilbud app to find the best deals!

Leftover day

Eat what you already have before going to the store again. This is a great way to reduce food waste – and get creative in the kitchen.Make big, hearty stews with whatever you’ve got. One big batch can cover lunch and dinner for several days!

Fun saving

Okay, maybe not ha-ha funny – but DNB has a savings tool that many students actually find pretty fun. It’s simply more motivating to save when your bank card does it for you!You can choose to save a little every time you use your card or pay a bill.Read more about Morsom Sparing - Fun Saving, on DNB.no.

Home savings for young people

If you deposit NOK 25,000 into a BSU (Housing Savings for Youth) account within a year, you’ll get 20% in tax deductions – that’s NOK 5,000 off your taxes. A fantastic way to save that you should absolutely take advantage of.Read more about BSU - Boligsparing for Ungdom.

Be strict with your big student grant

Do everything you can to transfer the full grant to your savings account right away – and treat it like emergency funds. If you stash it early, you’re less likely to blow it on things you don’t really need, but just want in the moment.

These tips won’t make you rich, but they might make your student budget feel a little less tight. Good luck!