Buy your books online rather than in the bookstore. First, get your book's ISBN number from your teacher or the bookstore. Once you know the ISBN, you can properly shop for the books elsewhere. You'll need the ISBN, not just the title, in case the book comes with a CD. Visit various sites to compare pricing, remembering to account for shipping costs. Try such sites as eBay.com, amazon.co.uk or www.valore.com. A newer option to try: renting your textbooks.
See if your college has an academic alliance for buying computers or software. Also research websites for discounted student software and hardware.
Sell your books back to the highest bidder. You don't have to sell your books back to the school bookstore every semester. Check to see how much they are offering for your books, then compare prices and sell to the highest bidder. Try Amazon, Valore and other bookseller sites.
Check your school for student discounts. Most schools have a listing, either on campus or online, of their discount partners. If you are unable to find the information online or on campus, ask student services representatives.
Bring your student ID everywhere. Many businesses have student discounts -- theaters, restaurants, bus lines, ticket dealers, special events -- but only with your student ID. It never hurts to ask.
Use free online sources for your academic research and resources. Ask your professors for recommendations. Don't forget the libraries as a free source of books, music and movies. Many have electronic books, too.
Plan ahead for the next semester. By knowing what you will take, you can talk to current students about the material and maybe arrange to buy their books later. Planning ahead will also let you buy school supplies between terms, when there are better sales.
Shop the Web to find bargains on school supplies, electronics, personal care items, dorm supplies and clothing.