Student IDs are the ultimate universal coupon

A surprising number of places offer substantial discounts just for flashing a student ID. Even if you don't have one of your own, you can still save by accompanying a student to museums, the movies or on shopping trips. Some universities even extend the benefits of their student discounts to graduates who pay dues to the alumni organization.

Museums typically offer generous student student discounts, but a little known secret for non-students hoping to pay less than face value for admission is the local library. Many libraries, particularly those affiliated with universities, offer discount passes. Patrons can borrow the passes just as if they were books, then the museums charge only a few dollars for admission.

Move theaters, theme parks, local restaurants and grocery stores also offer student or alumni discounts, particularly on a designated day of the week. Universities themselves also provide a lot of free or low-price entertainment such as music recitals, theater and dance performances, and art shows. School amenities like the gym or swimming pool are also typically free to students and open to alumni at a very low cost.

Retailers like Apple are famous for the student discount and back to school free iPod specials, but other retailers that offer discounts to students include the ever popular J. Crew. Many auto insurance companies offer a good student discount for high school and college students with a GPA of 3.0 or above. To find a list of potential discounts, check the alumni association websites of local schools. In some cases, you may not even need to be a student or an alum to benefit.

Here are a few places where your ID comes in handy:

Museums

Museums are great for meeting up with friends, or walking around solo. Most underrated museums give free admission to students. If the museum will not give free admission, expect a hefty discount on your admission.

Movies

What to do on the next rainy day? Head to the movies with a friend. With your college ID, you will save around $2 on your over-priced movie ticket.

Gym Membership

Winter is coming, and the outdoors will no longer be our favorite place for exercise. If you are considering a gym membership, look to your school. Many schools offer a low flat rate on their gym. If your school doesn't have a gym, it will most likely offer discounts at gyms nearby.

Health Services

Most campuses offer many services free of charge. Need cough drops? Need to get tested? Counseling? All are most likely included. You can see a real doctor for free, instead of spending a lot outside of school (if you have no insurance). Just bring your student ID, and you're set.

Restaurants

Hungry? Bring your student ID into town with you. Small private owned restaurants close to campus usually have some serious discounts being offered to those with a student ID.

Auto Insurance

If you are a student, you are eligible to get a discount on your auto insurance. A GPA of 3.0 can get you 10% off with a "Good Student" discount

--Bridget O'Sullivan and Noelle Sevoian