How College Students Can Save Money on Cell Phone Bills: For today’s college students, having a cell phone is a must—but paying for it can be a major hit to the budget. With U.S. wireless service ranking among the most expensive in the world, it’s crucial for students to find ways to lower their mobile costs.
A study by Cowen and Company found that American mobile customers spend more on wireless plans than consumers in any other country. Among the four major U.S. carriers, here’s how average monthly costs break down:
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Verizon: $148/month
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Sprint: $144/month
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AT&T: $141/month
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T-Mobile: $120/month
These numbers reflect both single-user and family plans and include taxes and fees. Even individual users often pay around $70 monthly. While 60% of students report that their parents cover the bill, that still leaves many footing the expense themselves.
Here are three effective ways college students can slash their cell phone bills—strategies I also share in College Secrets.
1. Eliminate Wireless Waste
One of the most common causes of high cell phone bills is overpaying for services you don’t use. A mobile analytics firm called Validas estimates that 80% of Americans overpay for wireless service by about $200 a year.
Their platform SaveLoveGive.com provides free analysis to consumers, helping you identify wasted minutes, unused data, and unnecessary texts. By tailoring your plan to your actual usage, you can trim your costs without sacrificing functionality.
2. Claim Your Eligible Discounts
Many students—and their parents—don’t realize they may qualify for mobile service discounts through employers or memberships. Thousands of corporations, schools, government agencies, and organizations have negotiated discounted plans with major carriers.
Eligible groups include:
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Teachers and school district employees
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Government workers
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AAA and credit union members
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College and university students
These discounts typically range from 10% to 25%. Here’s where you can check eligibility:
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AT&T: Discount Page
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Sprint (Now part of T-Mobile): Sprint Perks
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Verizon: Employee Discounts
Though T-Mobile no longer offers new Advantage Program discounts as of 2014, existing customers may still qualify. Visit the T-Mobile Advantage Program page to learn more.
3. Watch for Hidden Charges and Dispute Fees
A detailed review of your cell phone bill can reveal sneaky charges you might be unknowingly paying each month. Look out for:
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Roadside assistance fees
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Premium text services (e.g., horoscopes, sports updates)
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411 or directory service charges
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Toll-number calls you don’t recognize
These extras can quietly add up over time. Call your carrier to dispute and remove any charges you didn’t authorize. Also, request a block on premium services or features you don’t use.
Bonus Tips for Students on a Budget
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Consider prepaid or no-contract plans: Providers like Mint Mobile, Visible, and Boost Mobile offer affordable, no-frills options with unlimited data.
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Share a family plan: Even if your parents aren’t footing the bill, joining a group plan with roommates or friends can cut costs.
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Use Wi-Fi when possible: Connect to campus or home Wi-Fi networks to reduce data usage.
Final Thoughts
Cell phones are essential for modern college life—but sky-high bills don’t have to be. By cutting wireless waste, taking advantage of hidden discounts, and keeping a close eye on your bill, students can save hundreds each year. It’s time to make your mobile plan work for your budget—not against it.
FAQs:
How much do college students typically spend on cell phone bills?
On average, individual cell phone users in the U.S. pay around $70 per month, though costs can be higher depending on the carrier and plan.
Can college students get discounts on phone bills?
Yes. Many students qualify for discounts through their school, parents’ employer, or membership organizations. These discounts can range from 10% to 25%.
What is “wireless waste” and how can I avoid it?
Wireless waste refers to paying for unused data, texts, or minutes. Avoid it by analyzing your usage through tools like SaveLoveGive.com and adjusting your plan accordingly.
What should I do if I see unexpected charges on my phone bill?
Dispute the charges immediately with your carrier and request that they be removed. You can also ask for restrictions to prevent similar charges in the future.
Is it cheaper to be on a family plan or an individual plan?
Family plans often offer better per-person rates than individual plans. Joining a shared plan with family or trusted friends can significantly reduce costs.
