6 Hacky Ways to Save Big During Rush Season (Yes, Even on a Free iPhone)

Rush season is here - which means events, outfits, travel, and a *lot* of spending if you’re not careful. Whether you’re pledging, recruiting, or just trying to survive the chaos, here are six Frich-approved ways to keep your bank account intact.

<div class="frich-tip">Spoiler alert: one of them gets you a free iPhone 13.</div>

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1️⃣ Get a Free iPhone When You Switch to Total Wireless 5G Unlimited⁺

If you’re paying $70+ a month for a phone plan, you’re overpaying. Sorry, but that's the truth.

<div class="frich-tip">Total Wireless lets you switch carriers and get a free iPhone 13 (128GB!) when you bring your number over and sign up for their no-contract 5G Unlimited plan.</div>

Why it’s rush-perfect: New phone + you’ll cut your monthly bill without a credit check or surprise fees.

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2️⃣ Free AirPods When You Buy an iPad or MacBook at Apple

If you’ve been eyeing a newMacBook, Apple’s annual back-to-school promo gets you a free pair of AirPods when you buy a MacBook or iPad with your student discount.

<div class="frich-tip"> Frich tip: Finance your device with Apple’s $0 down monthly plan - no credit check required for Apple Card Monthly Installments if you qualify - and you’re walking away with a new laptop and free AirPods.</div>

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3️⃣ Score 20% Off, Plus Half-Price Delivery at Target with Your Student ID

Sign up for Target Circle Student and you’ll get 20% off one entire purchase (yes, storewide) plus 50% off your Target Circle membership. That unlocks same-day delivery, app-only deals, and late-night “oh no I forgot” runs for snacks, decor, or last-minute rush outfits.

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4️⃣ Save Up to 91% on Textbooks with BiggerBooks Rentals

Buying textbooks new just isn't the move. BiggerBooks lets you rent them for up to 91% off list price, and shipping is free if you spend $59+.

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5️⃣ The Sephora Free Mini-Makeover Trick

Before a big event, book a **complimentary mini-makeover** at Sephora. The catch? You have to spend \$50 — but you can use that on skincare or makeup you’d buy anyway. That means free glam before bid day without actually paying for a stylist.

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6️⃣ Snag Student-Only Discounts with UNiDAYS

From half-off at Urban Outfitters to 20% off Glossier makeup, UNiDAYS is basically a cheat code for rush prep. Sign up free with your student email, show your code at checkout, and watch your money go further on clothes, beauty, tech, and more.

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Why This Matters

Switching to a no-contract phone plan like Total Wireless can be one of the *fastest* ways to free up cash — and in this case, it also upgrades your phone for free. We’ve tested prepaid vs postpaid plans, compared hidden fees, and even ranked the Top 5 No-Contract Cell-Phone Plans for Heavy Data Users.

Spoiler: the free iPhone 13 deal from Total Wireless is unbeatable for 2025.