One of the biggest struggles students face is managing their finances. It’s no secret that money troubles are hitting more students than ever, and with living costs rising, many young people find it hard to stay on top of their spending.
While it’s just a small step, using a budgeting app can be a quick and easy way to save money. Here are some of the best apps to help you track your spending, snag deals, and cut down on waste.
1. BigOven
Ever open your fridge at the end of the week and find a random potato, half a jar of pesto, some sad-looking lettuce, and three bananas?
BigOven turns leftovers into actual meals (okay, maybe not with that combo!). Just type in what ingredients you have, and the app will suggest tasty recipes.
With over 350,000 recipes, you can plan meals and grocery trips ahead of time—helping you buy only what you need and waste less food.
2. Emma
Emma lets you link all your bank accounts in one place so you can track every penny. Set budgets, get weekly spending reports, check your overdraft, and even send or receive money from friends.
Students can sharpen their budgeting skills with daily updates and spending insights.
Plus, if you’re curious about investing, Emma lets you start small with an upgrade.
3. Vouchercloud
Vouchercloud is packed with discount codes for almost anything.
The app highlights the best daily deals in its “Best Featured” section, while the “Near Me” function finds discounts for nearby restaurants and activities.
Just download the voucher you like and show it at checkout to save.
4. Plum
Saving money as a student might feel impossible, but Plum figures out how much you can set aside—then does it for you.
Link your bank account, and Plum analyzes your spending to calculate what you can save. It stashes that amount in a virtual account, available anytime—just message the app, and you’ll get your cash within 24 hours.
To tweak your savings, change your “mood”—the default is “normal.” Want to save more? Pick “eager” (25% extra) or “ambitious” (50% extra). Need to scale back? Choose “chilled” (25% less) or “shy” (50% less).
5. Wallet
Wallet is another solid app for budgeting. Plan your spending, track expenses, and manage money across multiple accounts and currencies.
The app also shares regular money-saving tips on its blog and social media.
Students will love the reporting feature—check your balance, spending, cash flow, credit, and income all in one place.
6. YNAB (You Need A Budget)
Students get a 30-day free trial to test if YNAB works for them.
Enter your details, and the app helps you budget, save, or pay off debt.
YNAB is built for young users handling student loans, income, and new expenses after moving out.
7. Toshl Finance
Toshl helps students create a monthly budget.
Log your income and expenses, then set limits for specific costs—like nights out or groceries—to avoid overspending.
By seeing where your money goes, you can adjust and cover all your essentials.
8. Debt Payoff Planner
Made for students, this app helps tackle student loans or other debts.
Prioritize payments, and the app forecasts your repayment timeline.
You’ll get a clear view of what you owe and a realistic plan to pay it back without breaking the bank.
9. TextBookMe
No matter what you study, textbooks are expensive. TextBookMe finds the cheapest prices for study materials.
Save on books, guides, and novels—then use that extra cash for other important expenses.
