Image description: A transparent glass piggy bank partially filled with assorted coins sits on an outstretched hand. The piggy bank is topped with a black graduation cap, complete with a tassel hanging down the side. The background is a solid teal color, creating a clean and minimal composition. The image visually represents the concept of saving money for education, student loans, or investing in academic achievement.
Last month, I shared with you a few practical strategies I use in my daily life to save/earn up to $4k a year. Today’s blog is a continuation of that.
A few disclaimers: I’m married, and both my husband and I are international PhD students in engineering at Queen’s. We do not have children. I have personally done or tested everything on this list over the past 2 years. Gains are yearly estimates based on personal experience.
5. PSAC Financial Assistance (Gains: up to $500)
As a grad student at Queen’s, you are also probably a PSAC 901 member. If that’s true, are you aware that the union offers several (hardship, mental health, childcare, family hardship, gender affirmation, mutual aid)? Like the SGPS financial assistance program, you need to fill out a form and provide proof of your expenses, but there is no deadline to apply.  
6. Union and Professional Memberships (Savings: up to $700)
As a member of a union or a professional organization, there are several financial benefits that we often overlook. PSAC 901 members have access to on insurance, transportation, retail, services, and more – no signature required. I specifically took advantage of the home insurance, which proved to be 50% cheaper than anything else I found on the market. As an IEEE member, I also have access to more benefits and in retail, insurance, and IEEE products. Their group rate term life insurance is my pick. You may also find that almost every signature-based service offers a free or discounted version for students. A simple email check will take you far. I have obtained a free membership to a yoga app and 50% off Grammarly as a result.
7. Queen’s Awards and Bursaries (Gains: up to $2k)
Queen’s offers many financial aid opportunities through bursaries and awards. It is worth browsing all available links and being informed about the different openings, because even though eligibility mainly depends on degree and residency status, there is probably something you can apply for. All students with demonstrated financial need can benefit from the General Bursary, though. Graduate students can also apply to the , Queen’s-managed awards, Principal’s Teaching and Learning Awards, and Student Leadership Awards. You should also email your department to learn about the many non-advertised opportunities that may be available. Be mindful of deadlines, as most applications have one, and you may need a reference letter for the awards.
8. Side Hustles at Queen’s (Gains: up to $500)
Apart from our GRA/GRF and TA duties, you may also work in different paid positions at Queen’s. The Work Study Program provides students with financial need with priority for certain part-time jobs during their academic terms. Some organizations, like the and the often have open positions starting in the Fall semester. The SGPS also offers paid positions in its executive committee, but you need to be for them. Your department or school should have a web page listing positions, like . You can also always apply to write for the Gradifying Blog.