When to snag big back-to-school student discounts

Itemize your back-to-school shopping list

You can’t find the best deals if you don’t know what you need to purchase. Get ready for back-to-school shopping by creating a list. Review any course supply lists, the contents of your wardrobe, and any other items you might need on your first day. It’s always best to do a quick sweep around the house before purchasing any new items. You don’t want to overspend on something you already have. Once your list is completed, check online for retail prices to evaluate when items are on sale. You can also use OneNote to create an organized back to school shopping list. Check out these back to school organization tips to help you prepare.

Turn data into insights with Excel

Make better decisions backed by data and insights

Learn more

Start shopping in early July

Back to school shopping deals usually start in July. Retailers often offer discounts on all your essential school supplies, like pencils, pens, and notebooks, to bring in customers. You don’t want to miss any deals, so make sure you have your list ready by the end of June to get to the front of the line. But, if you don’t get there at the start, don’t fret. Sales typically last from July through August, and occasionally into September.

Check for coupons

Coupons are your best friend for finding back-to-school deals wherever your shop. You can browse online and in your local newspaper. Add yourself to an email subscription list to your favorite stores, so you don’t have to search around. And if you frequently visit your favorite department store or supermarket, they may have coupons available in store. Check with the customer service desk. These discounts happen all year round, so check frequently to save money on back-to-school items and more.

Wait until items are on clearance

Once the end of the back-to-school shopping season rolls around, retailers want to get rid of excess inventory. Already discounted items can go on clearance to clear up shelf space. If you are patient, try waiting until the end of August to get your school supplies for a low price. However, don’t leave this last-minute shopping for any essential items. Many items may already be out of stock. Shop for essential items earlier in the summer to get them before they’re gone.

Use your school ID for student discounts

Stores offer discounts to students who can show proof they’re enrolled in school. If they offer a student discount, bring your student ID with you to the store and provide it to the cashier during checkout. Getting student discounts, especially as a college student, is a great way to save money while you manage additional expenses. To help cut down school fees, Microsoft offers free Microsoft 365 access to students at eligible institutions. Sign up for Microsoft 365 with your school email address to get access.

Shop during tax-free weekends

Several states often offer tax-free holidays on weekends to help your back-to-school budget go further. Many of these dates fall on summer weekends, so you can stockpile items before the school year. To check if your state offers this program, visit the Federation of Tax Administrators website. If applicable, plan a shopping trip one of these weekends to take advantage of tax-free purchases on school supplies, clothing, and computer equipment.

Preparing for the new school year doesn’t have to be expensive if you time your shopping right and know where to look. Read for more tips on how to save and budget your money.