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Editor's Note: On July 18, a federal appeals court blocked continued implementation of the SAVE Plan. Current plan enrollees will be placed into interest-free forbearance while the case moves through the courts. We will update this page as more information becomes available.

In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to block the White House program for federal student loan forgiveness, President Joe Biden announced the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) program, a new income-driven plan for federal loan repayment. Monthly payments on loans will be lowered, based on discretionary income.

On Jan. 12, 2024, the White House announced that beginning in February, borrowers enrolled in SAVE who took out less than $12,000 in loans and have been in repayment for 10 years will get their remaining student debt canceled immediately. In July, however, two courts issued injunctions against the plan, putting the forgiveness part on hold. We will update this page with new information as it becomes available.

Here’s what borrowers need to know about the SAVE Plan and who qualifies. As of January 2024, 6.9 million federal student loan borrowers were already enrolled in the plan.

Overview of the SAVE Plan

President Biden said he had created a new repayment plan, “so no one with an undergraduate loan has to pay more than 5 percent of their discretionary income.” It is part of his effort to make student loan debt more manageable especially for low-income borrowers, and it replaces the REPAYE program.

The SAVE Plan is the most affordable repayment plan for federal student loans yet, according to the Department of Education. Borrowers who are single and make less than $32,800 a year won’t have to make any payments at all. (If you are a family of four and make less than $67,500 annually, you also won’t have to make payments.)

For federal borrowers who are required to make payments (this depends on your income and family size) and have only undergraduate school loans, the monthly payments will be cut in half — from 10% of discretionary income to 5%, beginning in the summer of 2024. How long people will have to make payments depends on the size of their loan balance.

•   If their original undergraduate loan balance is $12,000 or less, they will need to make payments for 10 years – and after that, any remaining balance will be forgiven.

•   If their original undergraduate loan balance is more than $12,000, their payment period is capped at 20 years (the term goes up one year for every $1,000 above $12,000) — and any remaining balance will be forgiven.

For federal borrowers who have both undergraduate and graduate loans, their monthly payments will be a weighted average of 5% and 10% of their discretionary income. How long they will need to make payments is pending government guidance.

And for federal borrowers who have graduate school loans, their monthly payments will be 10% of their discretionary income. Also, under the SAVE Plan, those who originally took out $12,000 or less in loans are eligible for forgiveness after at least 10 years of monthly payments.

Recommended: Discretionary Income and Student Loans, and Why It Matters

How to Enroll in the SAVE Plan

Borrowers who are already enrolled in the REPAYE program will be automatically enrolled in the SAVE Plan. During the transition, the DOE says it will use the two plan names, SAVE and REPAYE, interchangeably.

Those who are not currently in the REPAYE program can apply now, and they will be switched to SAVE automatically.


💡 Quick Tip: Enjoy no hidden fees and special member benefits when you refinance student loans with SoFi.

How SAVE Is Better Than REPAYE

The SAVE Plan replaces the Revised Pay As You Earn Repayment Plan (REPAYE). It is an improvement on it in several ways:

•   The SAVE Plan allows for low-income borrowers to make no payments at all.

•   The SAVE Plan requires low-balance borrowers ($12,000 or less) to make payments for only 10 years.

•   The SAVE Plan requires borrowers with only undergraduate debt to pay 5% (instead of 10%) of their discretionary income.

Additionally, if the required payment based on your income does not cover all of the interest that accrues every month, the uncovered amount will not be added to your balance. In other words, your balance will not grow if you are making your payments.

Recommended: Supreme Court Blocks Student Loan Forgiveness, Biden Vows More Action

Who Will Owe $0 in Monthly Federal Loan Payments Under SAVE?

Whether you will owe monthly federal loan payments under the SAVE Plan depends on two factors: your income^* and your family size. Your payment will be zero if your income is at or under 225% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)^**.

To find out if you will be one of the estimated million borrowers who still won’t have monthly payments to make after the federal payment pause ends, look up your family size in the table below. If your income^* is equal to or below the corresponding “2023 Income Level Protected From Payment Under SAVE,”^** your monthly federal student loan payment will be $0.

^*Normally, the government uses adjusted gross income figures, but the DOE did not specify this in its factsheet .

^**Usually the government uses the prior year’s FPL and your prior year’s income, but the DOE used 2023 figures in its factsheet.

 

2023 Income Levels Protected From Payment Under SAVE by Family Size
Family Size	2023 Incomes at Federal Poverty Level (FPL)	2023 Income Level Protected From Payment Under SAVE (FPL x 225%)
For individuals	$14,580	$32,805
For a family of 2	$19,720	$44,370
For a family of 3	$24,860	$55,935
For a family of 4	$30,000	$67,500
For a family of 5	$35,140	$79,065
For a family of 6	$40,280	$90,630
For a family of 7	$45,420	$92,195
For a family of 8	$50,560	$113,760
For a family of 9+	Add $5,140 for each extra person	$125,325+

💡 Quick Tip: Refinancing could be a great choice for working graduates who have higher-interest graduate PLUS loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and/or private loans.
 

How Much Your Monthly Federal Loan Payments Could Be Under SAVE

To calculate how much your monthly federal payments could be starting in October 2023 under SAVE, look up your family size in the table above and see the corresponding protected income level^**. Subtract that dollar amount from your estimated 2023 income^* and multiply it by 10%. Then take that figure and divide it by 12 to get your monthly payment amount.

(2023 Income^* – 2023 Protected Income Level^**) x 10% ÷ 12 = Monthly Federal Loan Payment Under SAVE

^*Normally, the government uses adjusted gross income figures, but the DOE did not specify this in its factsheet.

^**Usually the government uses the prior year’s FPL and your prior year’s income, but the DOE used 2023 figures in its factsheet.

When Will the SAVE Plan Take Effect?

The SAVE Plan will replace REPAYE by the time payments were due in October 2023. Originally, the full impact of SAVE was supposed to happen in July 2024, but President Biden announced in January that starting in February, borrowers enrolled in SAVE who took out less than $12,000 in loans and have been in repayment for 10 years will get their remaining student debt canceled immediately.

The other elements of SAVE are not expected to take effect until July 1, 2024. This means that borrowers who are eligible to have their payments cut to 5% of their discretionary income won’t see the reduction until this summer.

But the DOE is increasing the amount of income that is protected from payments, so that single borrowers who make up to $32,800 will not have to make payments and borrowers in a family of four making less than $67,500 also won’t have payments due.

Also, starting in October 2023, an important change was made in the amount of interest paid through SAVE. If you make your full monthly payment, but it is not enough to cover the accrued monthly interest, the government covers the rest of the interest that accrued that month. This means that the SAVE Plan prevents your balance from growing due to unpaid interest.

Who Is Eligible for the SAVE Plan?

The SAVE Plan is available to federal student borrowers with Direct student loans. This includes:

•   Direct Subsidized Loans

•   Direct Unsubsidized Loans

•   Direct PLUS Loans made to graduate or professional students

•   Direct Consolidation Loans that did not repay any PLUS loans made to parents

Additionally, you are eligible for the SAVE Plan if you consolidated a loan from the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program, including Subsidized and Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans, FFEL Plus Loans for graduate or professional study, FFEL Consolidated Loans that did not repay parents’ PLUS loans, and Federal Perkins Loans.

The SAVE Plan is not available for private student loans or Parent PLUS loans. Also, borrowers must be in good standing with their student loan payments. Borrowers in default who provide income information that shows they would have had a $0 payment at the time of default will be automatically moved to good standing, allowing them to access the SAVE plan.

Other Programs

In addition to the SAVE program, President Biden announced that the DOE is instituting a 12-month “on-ramp” to repayment, running from October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024, so that financially vulnerable borrowers who miss monthly payments during this period are not considered delinquent, reported to credit bureaus, placed in default, or referred to debt collection agencies.

Moreover, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program exists to help professionals working in public service who are struggling to repay federal student loans.

The Takeaway

Though the new SAVE Plan for federal student loan borrowers won’t take full effect until July 2024, some benefits will be implemented by February. Namely, the SAVE Plan will give borrowers who originally borrowed $12,000 or less forgiveness after as few as 10 years. Also, low-income borrowers may be exempt from making payments, while loan balances will not grow for borrowers making payments even if their required payment amount doesn’t cover all of the interest that accrues every month.

In July 2024, eligible federal borrowers with only undergraduate debt will see their monthly payments cut at least in half.

This article will be updated as the DOE releases more information about SAVE. To find more details yourself, this StudentAid page is a good place to start.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

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Photo credit: iStock/Pekic

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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If you’re exploring career options, and the idea of seeing the world and meeting interesting people appeals to you, you may want to consider a career as a flight attendant.

One of your first questions may be, how much does a flight attendant make a year? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary is $63,760. However, that figure can change based on a number of factors, including your experience, skills, and education.

Let’s take a closer look.

What Are Flight Attendants?

If you’ve ever flown, you already have met flight attendants. They’re the people who greet you when you step on the plane, serve you food, and ensure your safety when you fly.

But flight attendants have many responsibilities you don’t see. They have to be well-versed in emergency procedures, should there be an issue on board. They interact with the pilots and create reports for each flight.

Being a flight attendant requires an outgoing personality. If that doesn’t describe you, you may want to explore jobs for introverts.


💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Flight Attendants Make?

Compared to other jobs, flight attendants can make a good entry-level salary. For a flight attendant with less than one year of experience, the starting salary is about $60,487. This will, of course, depend on the airline that hires you and where you live.

Something else to consider: Compared to other jobs, training to become a flight attendant is relatively quick. Some programs are about six weeks long; after that, you’re ready to take to the skies.

Recommended: What Is Competitive Pay?

What is the Average Salary for a Flight Attendant?

The salary for a flight attendant just starting out is fairly high compared to some other jobs. But how much does a flight attendant make an hour? And just how much more could they earn with more experience under their belt?

It first helps to understand the difference between salary vs. hourly pay. Many flight attendants are paid by the hour, and the clock typically starts when the aircraft door is closed. That means that the period they spend greeting travelers and getting them settled is unpaid work.

While flight attendants don’t generally get overtime pay, they can earn extra money by working more hours or during holidays. Experience can play a role as well. The average hourly salary for a senior flight attendant is around $41 (or $84,637 per year), though some can earn as much as $55 or more per hour (or $115,126 per year).

No matter what your take-home pay is, online tools like a money tracker app can help you create budgets and keep tabs on your finances.

Recommended: Is $100,000 a Good Salary?

TABLE: What Is the Average Flight Attendant Salary by City for 2023
Curious about how much a flight attendant makes per year where you live? Here are average annual salaries in cities around the U.S.

And if you’re interested in exploring other jobs, check out the highest-paying jobs by state.

City	Average Salary
Anchorage, AK	$94,651
Mobile, AL	$78,703
Little Rock, AR	$78,585
Phoenix, AZ	$84,068
San Diego, CA	$91,839
Denver, CO	$86,489
New Haven, CT	$92,225
Delaware City, DE	$89,289
Orlando, FL	$80,839
Atlanta, GA	$83,537
Honolulu, HI	$88,268
Des Moines, IA	$82,185
Boise, ID	$79,253
Chicago, IL	$89,774
Bloomington, IN	$78,391
Kansas City, KS	$83,443
Lexington, KY	$79,800
New Orleans, LA	$83,318
Cambridge, MA	$95,885
Baltimore, MD	$87,485
Bangor, ME	$77,773
Ann Arbor, MI	$87,817
Minneapolis, MN	$90,668
Joplin, MO	$78,873
Jackson, MS	$76,172
Billings, MT	$81,868
Asheville, NC	$78,228
West Fargo, ND	$79,843
Lincoln, NE	$79,748
Concord, NH	$87,332
Atlantic City, NJ	$91,158
Albuquerque, NM	$80,016
Reno, NV	$85,902
New York City, NY	$99,995
Cincinnati, OH	$83,221
Oklahoma City, OK	$77,741
Eugene, OR	$83,758
Pittsburg, PA	$83,826
Providence, RI	$89,612
Charleston, SC	$80,816
Pierre, SD	$71,699
Chattanooga, TN	$76,727
Houston, TX	$86,591
Salt Lake City, UT	$81,639
Alexandria, VA	$94,736
South Burlington, VT	$83,969
Bellevue, WA	$93,902
Madison, WI	$83,387
Charleston, WV	$77,520
Cheyenne, WY	$78,246

Source: Salary.com

Flight Attendant Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Before you see these figures and get excited about making lots of money as a flight attendant, understand that these are average salaries. When you’re just starting out, you’ll likely make much less. And depending on where you live and the duties and responsibilities you have as a flight attendant, your salary will vary.

Other factors that will impact how much you make include whether or not you have people who report to you, how long you’ve been working, and where you fly. Working international flights might also pay more than domestic flights.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Flight Attendant Salary

Now that you know how much flight attendants make, let’s weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of the job.

Pros

For many people, the salary a flight attendant can make is impressive. And given that it doesn’t take years of study and hundreds of thousands of dollars of student loans to become a flight attendant, the barrier to entry is lower.

Unless you’re looking for a work-at-home job for retirees, another perk of being a flight attendant is that you’ll get the opportunity to travel around the country or even the world.

Cons

Like any job, there are drawbacks to working as a flight attendant. For starters, you are likely to be paid hourly, and you might not get compensated for any work you do before the doors of the plane close.

While flying around the world sounds glamorous, many flight attendants tire of the long hours in the skies. There are potential health risks of frequent air travel to consider as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), air travel exposes you to cosmic ionizing radiation, which could impact your reproductive health. Plus, jet lag can make it difficult to keep a regular sleeping schedule.

Recommended: What Trade Makes the Most Money?

The Takeaway

Flight attendants have the opportunity to make good money, see other parts of the country or world, and typically only need a few weeks of training to start working. If you’re outgoing, enjoy working with people, and love to travel, becoming a flight attendant could be a good fit.

FAQ

What is the highest-paying flight attendant job?

How much does a flight attendant make per hour? While salaries vary depending on experience and location, on the high end, flight attendants can earn around $115,126 per year.

Is flight attendant a healthy job?

Constantly being on their feet and being quick to respond to travelers’ requests keeps many flight attendants in good shape. However, there are potential health risks to consider. Jet lag could disrupt your circadian rhythms, and being in the air exposes you to cosmic ionizing radiation, which could impact your reproductive health, according to the CDC.

How much do flight attendants make starting out?

While starting salaries can vary depending on location, airline, and responsibilities, many flight attendants starting out make around $60,487.

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Photo credit: iStock/Adene Sanchez

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*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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While it can be a challenge to keep up with both work and school, getting a part-time job while in college can help you cover your expenses and gain valuable work experience at the same time. In addition, some employers may even offer to pay a portion of your college tuition as a part of their benefits package.

There are all kinds of jobs for college students — from on-campus jobs with regular hours to side gigs you can do in your spare time. While students often find work in the retail and service industry, it’s also worth exploring other avenues for employment, including office work and even jobs related to your field of study. Read on for a basic guide to finding a job that can help you pay for college.

Part-Time Jobs That Help Pay for College

Working part-time while you’re in college can help you pay for tuition and other expenses. These jobs typically offer flexible hours, allowing you to work around your class schedule.

You might start your search for jobs that help pay for college with businesses you already know and love. For example, you could see if your favorite cafe is hiring or ask about opportunities at the yoga studio you love. Even if they don’t have a paying position, some small businesses offer “service swaps” where you might be able to score free coffee, meals, or exercise classes for some light work. It pays to ask!

Here’s a look at other job opportunities that can help students earn money for college.


💡 Quick Tip: Make no payments on SoFi private student loans for six months after graduation.

On-Campus Jobs

Colleges and universities hire students for a variety of jobs on campus. Part-time on-campus jobs are not only convenient but typically provide flexibility so you can work around your class schedule. Plus, a lot of on-campus jobs can help you build relevant skills that will serve you after graduation.

The career center at your school will likely have lots of resources that can help you find employment on campus, including an online job board. Your school can also help you find a job campus through the federal work-study program. To see out if you’re eligible for work-study, which is a needs-based program, you need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA.

Below is just a sampling of on-campus job options you might consider, plus what they pay, on average, per hour:

•   Administrative Assistant: $16.80 per hour

•   Teaching Assistant: $17.56 per hour

•   Research Assistant: $20.62 per hour

•   Fitness or Recreation Center Attendant: $14.10 per hour

•   Lifeguard: $16 per hour

•   Peer Tutor: $12.73 per hour

•   Library Assistant: $14.49 per hour

•   Campus tour guide: $14.81 per hour

Paid Internships

Your school’s career center may also be able to provide information about internship opportunities in your field of study. Some college internships provide college credits, which can help you pay for college by reducing your tuition bill. In other cases, internships are paid. On average, college interns in the U.S. earn $24.63 per hour.

Don’t want to work during the school year? Summer can be a great time to focus on a career-boosting internship without distracting you from your coursework. According to a 2023 Glassdoor report , some summer internships are paying as much as $9,064 a month.

Securing a paid internship tends to be competitive, so it can be wise to apply early and make sure your application materials are compelling and complete. Internships can provide valuable learning opportunities and some of the top-rated internships even offer the opportunity for future full-time employment.

Serving, Bartending, or other Service jobs

Many college students work part time in the service industry because the hours are flexible and you can often earn tips in addition to an hourly pay. This can be especially helpful during peak hours and holidays because your income could be higher than usual. Here’s a look at some service jobs and their average hourly pay and tips:

•   Barista: $14.86 per hour (plus $20 in tips per day)

•   Restaurant server: $16.06 per hour (plus $100 in tips per day)

•   Restaurant host: $14.79 per hour (plus $35.00 in tips per day)

•   Bartender: $15.97 per hour (plus $150 in tips per day)

Recommended: Guide to Paying for College

Retail jobs

If you’re looking for a part-time job that will help pay for college, you might consider working in a local boutique or other type of retail store. These jobs also provide you with valuable human and workplace skills that can be used later in your professional career.

A retail sales associate is typically required to set up store merchandise and assist customers with their shopping needs. You also might even be able to get employee discounts or earn a commission. The average retail sales associate salary in the U.S. is $14.90 an hour.

Tutoring

You’ve been hitting the books and now it’s time to put all of that newfound knowledge to good use. You may be paying for your education, but there are also people out there willing to pay you to share what you’ve learned, which can help make college more affordable. Consider tutoring other college students or younger students in your area of expertise. Rates will vary based on location, subject matter, and your experience level. On average, private tutors earn $25.12 an hour.

Virtual Assistant

Sometimes small businesses and entrepreneurs need someone who can answer their emails, perform odd jobs online, and otherwise provide administrative support virtually. You might look for these gigs online or through your school’s career development office. Before you take on a role, it’s important to know what’s expected: Are they looking for someone to be available during specific hours or could you get everything done on your own time?

On average, a virtual assistant makes $19.19 an hour.

Recommended: 3 Summer Jobs Ideas for College Students

Babysitting or Caregiving

Babysitting can be another job option to help pay for college if you’re looking for flexibility. You can schedule jobs for weekends or nights if you’re worried about work conflicting with your school schedule. As a bonus, you may be able to squeeze in some studying while the little ones are asleep. On average, part-time college nanny jobs pay $25 an hour.

Keep in mind that caregiving isn’t just limited to little kids. You may find meaningful roles working with elderly or ill people who need help, either with day-to-day tasks or with errand running, housekeeping, or even just keeping someone company while they shop. On average, a part-time caregiver earns $15 an hour.

Dog Walking

Having flexibility during the day can mean everything for people who work 9 to 5 and need someone to care for Fido. Consider working for a walking service rather than striking it out on your own: It may provide guaranteed hours or jobs, so you can get to know the pooches you work with. The average salary for a dog walker in the U.S. earns $17 per hour.

Ridesharing or Delivery Driving

Driving for a ride-sharing or delivery service can be a good option during college, since you can generally set your own hours and fit the job into your schedule. How much you could make will depend on your location and the times you’re available to drive. Many Uber drivers make between $15 and $25 per hour, while the average hourly wage for food delivery drivers nationwide is $19/hour.

It can also be helpful to talk to locals to get the lay of the land — national earnings surveys may be very different from your local area, and it can be helpful to anticipate just how much demand there might be before you sign on.

Recommended: 11 Ways to Make Money While You Drive

Freelance or Start a Side Hustle

If you have a sought-after skill or talent, such as writing, website design, photography, or coding, you might consider starting your own freelance business or side hustle. You can advertise your skills on a freelance platform like Fiverr or Upwork. Or, you could solicit clients in your community. For example, you might be able to build a website for a local small business or get hired to manage an off-campus store’s online brand and marketing.

Consider Companies That Help Pay Your Tuition

Part-time jobs can be one option to help you pay for college, but what if you can find a job that not only pays you a salary but also pays for tuition? There are some major companies that offer stipends or reimbursements toward college tuition or expenses like books, even for part-time employees.

Employers generally offer tuition assistance in one of three ways:

•   Tuition reimbursement Here, the company reimburses you for tuition you’ve paid. There may be a tuition cap and/or a requirement to work a certain number of hours or months before the benefit kicks in.

•   Direct payment Some employers will pay eligible college costs directly to the school. In some cases, they only partner with certain schools.

•   Scholarships Some employers offer education scholarships to employees for a set amount of money. As with other types of scholarships, you typically need to submit an application for the award and may also be required to maintain a certain GPA.

Here are some national companies that have well-publicized tuition assistance policies:

Chipotle

At Chipotle , tuition reimbursement (up to $5,250 each year) is available for both part-time and full-time employees. They also offer a Debt-Free Degree program, which covers the full cost of a four-year degree at one of 10 universities. Typically, employees must work at least 15 hours a week for four months to qualify for tuition benefits.

Smuckers

Smucker’s helps employees further their knowledge and skills by reimbursing them for some of the costs of qualifying continued and/or higher education. The company also offers a scholarship program for children of employees.

Publix

At Publix , associates with 90 days of continuous service who work an average of 10 hours a week are eligible to participate in the company’s tuition reimbursement program. The program covers graduate and undergraduate degree coursework, as well as some individual courses, online programs, and technical training.

Starbucks

Starbucks is often featured on these lists for a reason: They partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to create the Starbucks College Achievement Plan which offers 100% tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University’s online program. All employees eligible for benefits (this includes part-time employees) may take advantage of this program.

If an employee doesn’t qualify for admission to ASU, they can take part in the Pathway to Admission program, which will help them qualify for admission, tuition-free.

UPS

UPS offers a tuition assistance program at most locations in the U.S. Through their “Earn and Learn” program, you can receive up to $5,250 per calendar year, with a lifetime maximum of $25,000. There are no course or subject restrictions.

Walmart

Walmart will pay 100% of tuition and books for an associate or bachelor’s degree program through several online accredited universities. This benefit is available to hourly part-time and full-time associates without a prior bachelor’s degree starting on day one.

Amazon

Amazon offers tuition assistance for employees seeking a Bachelor’s degree, a high school GED, or English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) proficiency certification. You’re eligible for the program after 90 days of employment for as many years as you work in a regular, full-time role at Amazon.

Recommended: Finding Jobs That Pay Off Student Loans

Think About Your First Job Out Of School

Another benefit of finding a job that helps pay for college: You can figure out what you do (and don’t) want to do for a living. It can also be helpful to assess certain job paths, including how much they may pay entry-level employees. While there are always lists of most and least lucrative majors, the reality is that your major doesn’t necessarily determine your career. Talk to alums and people a few years out of school and have them give you the lowdown on their job path.

When looking for your first full-time job out of college, it’s also important to consider not just your salary, but what benefits may come into play. For example, many companies now offer employees assistance in paying off student loans. How it works varies by company, but the typical plan offers matching funds or a predetermined recurring monthly payment towards your loan. Usually, there’s a maximum dollar amount you can receive and some employers require a minimum amount of time on the job.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

The Takeaway

The combination of scholarships, student loans, and a part-time job can help you cover the cost of going to college for four (or more) years. A part-time job will not only help you earn some money, but it could also help boost your resume. In addition, some companies offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for part- or full-time employees pursuing higher education. These programs may have specific requirements, such as attending a certain school or working a set number of hours per week, so be sure you understand the requirements.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

How do you ask a company if they offer tuition reimbursement?

To find out if a company offers education benefits like tuition assistance, you can talk to your manager or HR representative (if you already work there). If you’re in the interviewing process, you can ask the recruiter or hiring manager. Or, you can check the company’s website (often they will describe their benefits, including who is eligible and any other stipulations).

What are the disadvantages of tuition reimbursement?

One disadvantage of tuition reimbursement is that you typically need to pay for your classes upfront, then submit the bill to your company for reimbursement. Some tuition reimbursement programs also have strict requirements and limitations, such as a cap on the amount of money that can be reimbursed, or only covering certain types of courses or degrees.

Also keep in mind that balancing work and courses can also be challenging for some employees to manage successfully.

Why would a company offer generous tuition reimbursement?

Many companies offer generous tuition assistance programs in order to attract, develop, and retain high-performing employees.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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College comes with a lot of expenses. On top of tuition, fees, books, and housing, you might also want to occasionally go out and have fun. Maybe you want to go shopping, see a movie, or meet friends for lunch or dinner. That’s not always easy on a student budget. Fortunately, there are widely available deals and discounts designed just for college students. Here’s where you can find them.

Major Retailers

1. Amazon

Amazon Prime Student gives you six free months of Amazon Prime, and after that it’s $7.49 per month (about half regular price). Plus, you’ll receive perks like free food delivery, 10% off flights and hotels, and one month free of homework help. You can cancel at any time.

2. Sam’s Club

Sam’s Club offers special membership pricing to college students through UNiDAYS , a site that verifies student status and offers exclusive student deals (sign-up is free). Once you register with UNiDAYS, you can get $40 off a Sam’s Club Plus Membership or 30% off a Club Membership. You’ll also qualify to get a $45 eGift Card when you spend $45.

💡 Quick Tip: Ready to refinance your student loan? With SoFi’s no-fee loans, you could save thousands.

3. Target

Target Circle’s College Student Appreciation program offers exclusive perks and discounts to students, which could come in handy when you’re shopping for your dorm room. To access deals, like 15% off your purchase, you need to join Target Circle for free, verify your student status (by uploading a student ID, class schedule, or tuition receipt), then check back later for offers.

4. Costco

A Costco membership can also help make college more affordable. College students who join Costco as a new Gold Star Member through UNiDAYS can receive a $30 Digital Costco Shop Card.

Technology

5. Apple

Keep this in mind when you’re preparing for college: Apple offers special pricing for current and recently accepted college students (along with their parents). For example, you can get a 13” macbook air with the M2 chip for $999 (normally $1099) or an iPad air for $549 (normally $599).

6. Microsoft

Students (as well as parents and teachers) can save up to 10% off eligible computers and accessories with Microsoft’s student discount . You also get Office 365 and access to Teams for free.

7. Dell

Dell offers exclusive discounts on laptops, monitors, and accessories to students with a valid academic email address (such as one ending in .edu). Savings vary depending on the product, but currently you can save $300.00 (20%) on an XPS 15 Laptop.

8. Lenovo

College students get an extra 5% off their tech purchases at Lenovo . Incoming students can also access the deal by providing a letter of acceptance. You simply need to verify your student status through ID.me during checkout.

9. Adobe

Adobe Creative Cloud for Students allows you to get an All Apps plan for $19.99 a month for the first year, and $29.99 per month after that (it’s normally $54.99 per month). To get the deal, you need to provide a school-issued email address during purchase so you can be instantly verified.

Clothes

10. Aeropostale

Students can benefit from an extra 15% off at Aeropostale . To take advantage of the deal, you’ll simply need to register and verify your student status with UNiDAYS.

11. J.Crew

J.Crew gives students (and teachers) 15% off purchases when they present a valid college ID at checkout. The discount can be used up to four times a month.

12. Hanes

Need some basics, like tees or undergarments? Hanes offers students 10% off online purchases. To score your discount, you need to verify your student status through ID.me and get a promo code.

13. The North Face

The North Face gives students a 10% discount code to use at full-price locations (not factory stores), as well as online. You can redeem one code every 30 days.

14. Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Hilfiger offers students 15% off online or in-store. First, you have to create or log in to your ID.me account.

15. Levi’s

Levi’s offers students 15% off online purchases after you verify your student status on the site.

16. Club Monaco

Students who are Club Monaco fans can get 15% off online and in-store. Simply register for an account with your .edu email address and a 15% off discount will automatically apply to your cart. If you’re shopping in-store, just present a valid student ID at the register.

17. Docker’s

Docker’s offers students a generous 25% off all purchases made online. You simply need to verify your student status through the site.

18. Outdoor Voices

Students shopping at Outdoor Voices can score 20% off through Student Beans (a site similar to UniDAYS that helps verify student status and offers discounts to partner stores). Once you register with Student Beans (which is free), you’ll get a discount code that you can use at checkout.

19. Champion

Champion offers 10% off to actively enrolled students. You simply need to verify your student status through ID.me to get the discount code.

Restaurants

20. McDonald’s

Right now, you can get a free Cheeseburger, Mayo Chicken, or McFlurry® Original when you buy any Extra Value or Wrap Meal and show your valid student or Student Beans ID.

21. Chick-fil-A

Student discounts vary by location, but many Chick-fil-As offer students a free drink with any purchase.

22. Dunkin’

Dunkin’ offers a 10% off student discount at participating locations. To claim the deal, simply show your student ID to your cashier.

23. Arby’s

You can save 10% on your Arby’s meal when you show your student ID at participating locations.

24. Buffalo Wild Wings

Want to catch the game and eat some wings with friends? Students can score 10% off at many Buffalo Wild Wings locations.

25. Waffle House

Looking for a late-night meal? Students can enjoy a 10% discount at participating Waffle Houses.

26. IHOP

If you don’t have a Waffle House nearby, many IHOP locations also offer 10% off for students.

27. Qdoba

Qdoba has two discount options for students at most locations: either a free drink with your purchase or a burrito meal for just $5.

28. Taco Bell

Craving a Crunchwrap Supreme? You can get a 10% student discount at participating Taco Bells.

Recommended: A Guide to Making Friends in College

Travel & Transportation

29. Greyhound

Through Student Advantage , Greyhound offers 10% off any fare. The Student Advantage card costs $30 a year and offers students — and parents — a wide range of discounts.

30. Amtrak

Students between the ages of 17 and 24 can travel by Amtrak train for 15% off when booking at least one day in advance.

31. United Airlines

United Airlines offers a 5% flight discount to any travelers who are 18 to 23 years old. To get the deal, you need to book through the United app.

32. Hotels.com

Through UNiDAYS, you can snag steep discounts at hotels.com , such as 35% Off last-minute hotel bookings and up to 40% off the site’s Weekend Getaway Deals.

33. FlixBus

You can get 15% off Flixbus tickets with Student Beans. Simply use your FlixBus student discount code at checkout.

34. Hertz

Hertz offers students 21 and older who have had a driver’s license for at least one year, 15% off cars and 20% off vans.

35. Budget Truck Rentals

Budget Truck Rentals offers students 20% off local moves and 15% off one-way moves any day of the week. Use the discount code TRUKU.

36. Penske

Penske offers college students a 10% discount on all truck rentals and unlimited miles on one-way moving truck rentals. Simply use the discount code STUDENT at checkout. You’ll need to provide a college ID or proof of enrollment status at pickup to receive the discount.

37. Red Coach

RedCoach offers high school, college, and graduate students up to 10% off tickets. To get the discount, check the student option at checkout then show your student ID card to the driver along with your ticket.

Recommended: College Move-In Day Tips for Parents

Entertainment

38. AMC

Students get a lower ticket price at select AMC theaters every day. Just bring your photo student ID (and maybe some extra money for popcorn).

39. Cinemark

Student discounts at Cinemark vary by location and time of day, so check with the local box office to see what kind of deal you can snag.

40. Apple Streaming

Apple’s Student Music plan is $5.99 per month for up to 48 months (normally $10.99 per month). You also get Apple TV+ (usually $6.99) free.

41. Hulu

Hulu offers students its ad-supported plan for just $1.99 a month (a 75% discount). If you’re interested in a bundle, check out the deal below.

42. Spotify Bundle

As a student, you can get Spotify Premium and Hulu (with ads) for just $4.99 per month. Spotify Premium normally costs $9.99 per month and Hulu (with ads) is $7.99 a month, so you can snag a monthly savings of $12.99 for as long as you’re going to college.

43. The Washington Post

The Washington Post has a digital all-access student subscription plan for just $1 every four weeks.

44. Paramount+

As a student, you can get a Paramount+ Essential monthly plan for just $4.50 per month (25% off). You can cancel anytime.

45. YouTube Premium

YouTube Premium (which allows you to enjoy YouTube and YouTube Music ad⁠-⁠free) is available to students at a discounted rate of $7.99 a month, after a free one-month trial. You can cancel at any time.

46. The Economist

The Economist offers students an annual digital subscription for a steep 75% off. You can get the Economist Espresso for $19.75 a year, or the Economist Digital for $52.25.

💡 Quick Tip: Trying to figure out how to budget towards your current or future loan payments? This student loan calculator estimates how much you’ll be paying each month so you can better prepare for your upcoming bills.

Home Goods

47. Ghost Bed

As a student or teacher, you can get 50% off your entire order at GhostBed . To take advantage of the deal, just click on the ID.me button and then “Student ID” to sign up and get verified.

48. Mattress Firm

After verifying your student status through ID.me, Mattress Firm will give you a single-use coupon code that can be used in-store or online. You get an extra 20% off select purchases or an extra 10% off Purple with the code.

49. Purple

You can also get a 10% discount directly from Purple . Once you verify your eligibility, you’ll be emailed a coupon for 10% off your order.

50. Helix

You can get a discount code for 15% off a mattress at Helix through UNiDAYS.

51. Puffy

Puffy offers a generous student and educator discount — $1,425 off any Puffy mattress.

52. Brooklyn Bedding

Brooklyn Bedding offers a 30% discount and free shipping to students. You simply need to verify your eligibility through ID.me.

The Takeaway

Student discounts can help you save on everything from food and clothing to electronics and entertainment. Even with these deals, however, you may still need help covering your college expenses.

If you completed the FAFSA and didn’t get enough financial aid to pay all of your school bills, keep in mind that you may be able to get a private student loan to help fill in any gaps. Unlike federal student loans, which have strict application deadlines, you can apply for private student loans at any time — including mid-semester.

Private student loans also allow you to borrow up to 100% of the school-certified cost of attendance. Just keep in mind that private student loans don’t offer the borrower protections — like income-driven repayment plans and deferment or forbearance — that come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

How many times can you use a student discount?

It depends on the company. Some retailers and restaurants allow you to use your student discount once per visit or purchase; others limit you to a certain number of times per month or year.

How much is the average student discount?

Student deals typically give you 10% to 15% off, though you may find some discounts for 50% off or even higher. In some cases, a student discount may come with restrictions, such as only being able to use it on full-price merchandise. So it’s always a good idea to compare your student discount to any other available deals and sales.

Do student discounts only apply to college students?

Typically, student discounts only apply to college and graduate students. In some cases, high school students can get deals if they have an email that ends in .edu. The colleges and programs that retailers recognize can vary, but you can expect most major colleges and universities to be eligible.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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