Sources to find more cheap fun

• Free weekly newspapers offer listings of inexpensive or free events going on in your city.
  
  
• Right on campus you'll find loads of inexpensive entertainment ideas. Pick up your student newspaper for listings of plays, recitals, art shows, sports games, special lectures, or readings.
  
  
• Keep your eyes up! Check out poster boards on campus for inexpensive event listings.
  
  
• Sign up for the online newsletter of your local video store. You'll get coupons for free rentals, and can enter fun contests to win cool movie stuff. Other favourite stores may also have an online newsletter advertising specials and deals.

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Redeem some fun

• Carry your student identification card everywhere, and always ask if a student discount is available. You'll be surprised at how many businesses offer student prices, but don't advertise it.
  
  
• Look for coupons or free offers everywhere -- in junk mail flyers, newspapers left out on a desk, and even your phone bill may come with coupons. You can find coupons online at save.ca or coupons.com.
  
  
• Many cities have an entertainment coupon book for a reasonable fee which usually goes to a good cause as part of local fundraising efforts. Save money in the long haul and discover places in your town you didn't even know were around!
  
  
• Check your Student Union for any special deals they have collected for you. Edmonton, Calgary and Red Deer students can pick up a Student Union Ticket Pak and receive coupons for entertainment, merchandise and restaurants.
  
  
• Liquor stores often have free memberships that get your great prices -- become a member if you shop there often. Coupons are a lifesaver! You'll find coupons for most every attraction in your city, as well as deals on restaurants, services, and even grocery stores. Keep ones you may use on the fly in your wallet for quick access.

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Sarah Deveau is a graduate of the University of Calgary. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, she spent her teenager years living in Hamilton and Calgary, where she now resides with her husband Keith, and her cat, Parker. During her five years in university, and her husband's seven years, they incurred a combined debt of just $6,000. Through the use of scholarships, part-time and full-time jobs, Sarah and Keith paid for their education even while getting married, moving out, and buying vehicles. She is the author of Sink or Swim: Get Your Degree Without Drowning in Debt (Dundurn), a 'how to' guide to obtaining a post-secondary education without incurring massive student loans. This book guides students through their post-secondary education, encouraging them to live within their means by being creative with their lifestyle. Article reprinted with permission of author.

Related reading:

• Tired of studying? Cheap fun ideas from a student's point of view
• Affordable and fun date ideas
• Top 10 tips to survive university