College isn't all fun and games (unless you want it to be.) Don't sweat it, though. Take a look at these 25 apps — they'll give you a smoother college experience by helping you study smarter, connect with new people and wake up in time for your early lectures.
Your university probably has its own app, too — download it. It will provide you with a more tailored breakdown than a national application.
Jan 14, 2018 Also, many of these apps I have tested, but I may or may not have used them. Moreover, the vast majority of these apps can be found in the Mac App Store or through a thorough search of Google. So, without further ado, I give you 25 Mac Apps For University And High School Students. Available for broke college students (read: free) for iOS and Android devices. The premium version is even more useful, at $5 a month or $45 a year. The premium version is even more useful, at $5. We think having a bunch of super-savvy, money-smart, socially-active, recent college graduates—hooked on following YNAB’s Four Rules—will only increase that word of mouth. Plus, we really hate student loan debt, and if we can help college students graduate with less debt and pay it off quickly, that alone would be a win.
See also: 12 Things Students Should Never Do on Social Media
Any helpful ones we missed? Let us know in the comments!
1. BenchPrep
Image: BenchPrep
BenchPrep is an interactive course library with all the graduate and professional exam study material you can handle. It includes hundreds of practice questions, flashcards, in-app purchases and almost 600 study lessons. Go ahead and pick your poison: LSAT, MCAT, GMAT.
Available for free on iOS and Android devices.
2. iStudiez Pro
Image: iStudentPro
iStudiezPro keeps track of your deadlines, grades and more across all Mac devices — all you need to do is plug your class schedule into the app. It comes with both Cloud syncing and iCal integration.
Available for $2.99 for iOS. The free iStudiez Lite version limits the number of classes you manage, but it's useful nonetheless.
3. Evernote
You've probably heard a lot about Evernote, and yes, you should try it. What have you got to lose ... your homework? The app syncs all your stuff — text, audio, photo, video — to an online account, so you're always connected with resources to study.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by Evernote's many features, check out this comprehensive beginner's guide.
Available for broke college students (read: free) for iOS and Android devices. The premium version is even more useful, at $5 a month or $45 a year.
4. StudyBlue Flashcards
Flashcards are an effective way to memorize information, but making them is a headache. With StudyBlue, use text, pictures and audio to create the perfect stack of (digital) flashcards; or, search the massive database to borrow someone else's.
Available for iOS and Android devices.
5. RealCalc Scientific Calculator
Did your little brother steal your calculator once you finished AP physics? Use RealCalc for serious computing — it's a perfect alternative for the calculator-less.
Available for free for Android. If you need a heavy-duty upgrade, try RealCalc Plus for $3.49.
6. Engineering Professional
More than 650 chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, hydrology and mechanical formulas are updated in Engineering Pro — so don't worry about buying multiple formula apps. Save or Favorite the formulas you need most often.
Available for $11.99 for iOS.
7. EasyBib
Image: EasyBib
EasyBib generates citations in MLA, APA and Chicago style wherever you are — just scan the book's bar code or enter the title. The app also lets you easily email and export the bibliographies to yourself. Using this, you have no excuses for putting off that term paper.
Available for free for iOS and Android devices.
8. Notella
Image: Notella
Some professors drop the most important bombs when you least expect it ('Have a good spring break, everyone. Oh! One more thing: We're having an exam worth 60% of your final grade the day you get back. See ya!').
Don't miss a thing with Notesdeck. This super-fast note-taking app opens to a new note by default, lets you create custom hotkeys and syncs notes from other apps — iCloud, Evernote, Simplenote and Dropbox. You can even search within those other apps from one search bar.
Available for $2.99 for iOS.
9. Wolfram Alpha
From thermodynamics to baseball, the Wolfram Alpha reference app uses its supercomputing Cloud to quickly generate answers — across thousands of domains — to all your research questions.
Available for $2.99 for iOS and Android devices.
10. Dictionary.com Mobile
With more than two million definitions, synonyms and antonyms, Dictionary.com's fast and user-friendly mobile app will decode that confusing media law textbook in no time.
Available for free for iOS and Android devices.
11. Babylon
Whether you're a Spanish lit major or just looking to finish your general education requirements, Babylon provides comprehensive dictionary results and translations for dozens of languages. With pasteboard integration and access to more than 1,500 glossaries in 75 languages, you'll never struggle to find an accurate definition for your foreign language presentation again.
iBabylon is available for free for iOS; Babylon Translator is available for free for Android.
12. Jumpcut
You have better things to do than copy and paste all day. Make light work of data entry assignments with Jumpcut: copy as much text as you want, one after another, and paste using simple keystrokes.
Available for Macs only.
13. Dragon Dictation
Ever wish you could type faster? Dragon Dictation uses accurate voice recognition software to let you speak and instantly see your words in text. Dictate statuses to your social networks or pretend you're talking to someone if you're trying to write a speech — even send statuses straight to your social networks. Try this if you're in a time crunch and really need to churn out an essay; or, if you're just someone who prefers speaking over writing.
Available for free for iOS.
14. SelfControl
Image: Flickr, jonas maaloe
Free Study Apps For College Students
It's finals week. You have a huge essay to finish ... but then there's Reddit, emitting its bewitching siren call. Every. Damn. Time.
SelfControl lets you set a period of time to block certain websites or mail servers by adding them to a 'blacklist.' It's too bad if you finish your work early — restarting your computer or deleting the application won't negate the timer.
Available for free for Mac OS X.
15. Studious
Avoid interrupting class and getting on your professor's bad side with Studious. Once you input your class schedule, Studious will silence your phone during those hours.
Available for free for Android. Upgrade to Studious+ for $1.99 to bypass the ads.
16. Circle of 6
Ever feel uncomfortable when it's dark and you're in a new part of a city — or even campus? Circle of 6 won the White House's Apps Against Abuse challenge. It helps you stay safe by connecting you to six trusted contacts, whenever and wherever. Use the pre-programmed 'come and get me' message with your GPS location, or easily call national and local emergency hotlines in critical situations. It's a fast and discreet way to put your safety first.
Available for free for iOS and Android devices.
Addendum: You don't actually need six people if you want to double up on contacts.
17. Skype
Image: Skype
Video interviews are not going away any time soon — so you might as well get a heads up now. Microsoft's Skype is a reliable way to connect with faraway family and friends via text, voice and — of course — video.
Available for free for iOS and Android devices.
18. LinkedIn
LinkedIn and all its nifty mobile features makes connections a breeze — for better or worse, college is a time of both personal and professional connections.
Available on the web, of course, but also for free for iOS and Android devices.
19. Twitter
Don't be the only person in class who isn't up-to-date with world events. Use Twitter to keep yourself in the loop in both the academic and social aspects of your life. In today's contemporary classrooms, you may even be asked to participate in class discussions via Twitter.
Available for free for iOS and Android devices.
20. Sworkit
There are a lot of things to do in college. Exercising isn't always one of them; especially when there's socializing and studying to be had. Sworkit's greatest asset is its ability to let you choose your exercise time allotment in five-minute increments — starting at, yes, the very low threshold of five minutes. Doable, right?
It also boasts an extensive list of work out routines.
Study Apps For College Students
Available for free for iOS and Android devices. Sworkit Pro comes with advanced features and costs $0.99 for iOS and Android.
See also: 10 YouTube Channels That Will Make You Smarter
21. Mint
Club fees. Books. Tuition. Food. College adds up — quickly. Mint is a web and mobile app that helps you keep track of your spending. Plus, it's never too early to start cultivating good credit.
Available for free for iOS and Android devices.
22. Sleep If U Can Alarm
Come on, you lazy bum — you're paying for these early classes, remember? Nicknamed the 'world's most annoying alarm,' Sleep If U Can gives you two options to silent the alarm: 1) Shake your phone; or 2) Physically go the place shown on your screen (see: the bathroom sink in the video) and take a picture.
Available for $1.99 for iOS and free for Android.
23. Pocket First Aid & CPR
Mashable composite, images: Pocket First Aid & CPR
While it's not the sexiest app to have at your disposable, you never know when it might come in handy. Along with clear and concise CPR instructions, Pocket First Aid and CPR contains 34 videos and 46 high-resolution illustrations.
Available for $1.99 for iOS and Android devices.
24. Between
Attempting the long-distance relationship course? Kudos — that's no small task. Relationship app Between can help ease the separation anxiety by letting you send messages, voicemails, memos and photos. A private timeline makes it easy to reminisce about the good old days with your significant other(s).
Available for free for iOS and Android devices.
25. TED
Image: TED
In an environment often congested with bad influences, a heavy dose of genius goes a long way. TED Talks give you instant access to the biggest thought leaders of our time.
Available for free for iOS and Android devices.
Image: Mashable, Meghan Uno
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There are more tools available than ever before for helping college students master college life. It’s a stressful time; balancing life with fun and work with study. College students can access a host of free apps that will help them stay organized and on budget.
College means that students are suddenly responsible for every moment of their day and all the resources at hand. It comes as a shock for most 18-year-olds. Living on your own, keeping up with classes, working, and managing your money can be overwhelming. These free apps can help students live their best college life.
Free Apps for Staying Organized
Juggling class schedules, due dates, and work shifts can put anyone in a spin. These free apps will help keep tabs on all the to-dos, and organize schedules.
1. Your college’s app
Many colleges and universities have their own apps. They’ll provide info like game schedules, events, class assignments, and even the dining hall menu. Check this out first for organizing your life on campus.
2. EverNote
EverNote is a fantastic organization app for individuals or work teams. Keep track of project notes, images, and clippings. Keep notes and to-do lists. This free app features a digital workspace that’s easy to navigate.
3. Todoist
Todoist is the ultimate to-do list app. It works both online and off line. You can schedule tasks and subtask and created deadlines. You can also share your lists with team members and track productivity.
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4. G Suite
G Suite is all the Google apps in one app. Take advantage of free Google tools like Sheets, Docs, Calendar, and email. Instead of loading separate apps to create documents and spreadsheets, G Suite lets you manage all in one free-to-use space.
5. Microsoft Office Mobile
Similar to G Suite, this free app lets you use all the Microsoft Office tools in one digital space. If you have access to Office products like Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, through a subscription or as part of a class download this free app to access them all from your device.
Free Apps for Better Studying
6. Brainscape
Create and use flashcards through Brainscape. This app also features flashcards for standardized tests like MCAT and GRE. It also has ready-made flash cards for several basic subjects and languages.
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7. Duolingo
Duolingo is a great free app for language study. Download to help you perfect your French, Spanish, and even German. Duolingo features language learning games that only take a few minutes a day.
8. QuizLet
QuizLet is one of the best-known study apps for college students. It features a range of study tools with flashcards and games. Use their database of public cards or create your own.
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9. EasyBib
This free app saves you tons of time by helping you manage any bibliography. The EasyBib app allows you to fill out one form to create an approved-format bibliography for your papers. Provides MLA8, MLA7, Chicago, APA, and so many more. Best of all, it stays up to date with new style changes.
Free Apps for Saving and Managing Your Money
10. Mint
College students are broke by definition. Help learn to manage your money and organize your financials with Mint. Manage your savings and checking accounts, keep track of bills, and rule your credit cards in one free app. Mint also helps you keep track of your spending and credit score.
11. Walmart Savings Catcher
Eventually, you’ll need to buy new underwear. Or soap. With a Walmart store near every college campus in the country, and open 24/7, it’s likely you’ll find yourself in one at some point. The Walmart Savings Catcher app lets you scan your receipts. If a lower price is found nearby, they’ll refund the difference to a Walmart card you can use later.
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12. Target Cartwheel
It’s no secret that college students love Target for dorm décor and clothing. Where else can you sip a Starbuck latte and browse the latest casual fashions? The Target Cartwheel app helps you find great stuff on sale and knocks a percentage off the price when you check out.
13. Acorns
You may think that college is too soon to start investing, but it’s actually a great time to start. The sooner you can squirrel away spare change, the longer you’ll have to earn money on the interest. Acorns connects with your debit card to deposit the spare change from your purchases into an investment account. It rounds your purchases up to the next dollar and invests the change. It’s an inexpensive and easy way to get started saving for your future. It can also make balancing your checkbook a bit simpler. Although there is a small maintenance fee for accounts under $5,000, College students can use the service for free for up to four years.
14. Chegg
Chegg is the go-to for buying or renting textbooks on the cheap. Textbooks can cost hundreds of dollars, and add up to thousands every year. Don’t throw your money away at the campus bookstore when you can buy cheap, used, or rent.
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15. Groupon
Now that your independent and in college, you’re going to want to explore your new town and try new experiences. Grab the free app from Groupon to check out deep discounts on local events and entertainment.
16. CollegePower
This free app focuses on food discounts around colleges. Check out the local deals and save the ones you want to try. The CollegePower app saves the discount price for you, so you can use it at your convenience. The app also lets you share deals with friends. The more, the merrier.
Free Apps for Safety/Self Care
17. First Aid by American Red Cross
Now that mom’s box of Band-Aids and Bactine isn’t around, be prepared by downloading this app. This free First Aid app from the American Red Cross shows you how to perform basic first aid and assess medical emergencies on the spot. Better safe than sorry.
18. Bsafe
Bsafe is a free personal safety app that lets you alert friends about your whereabouts. Starting out in college in a strange town can leave you, and your friends, and your parents, a bit worried. Bsafe will alert your contacts about your location using your GPS. You can let your friends and family know when you’re home safe. It has an alarm and auto video broadcast for emergencies. It even has a “fake call feature” so you can bail out of uncomfortable dates or parties graciously.
19. Circle of 6
Give this app the name of your six closes friends. If you feel unsafe, you can use Circle of 6 to notify your friends to ask for help. It gives your current location so they can launch a rescue. It also has national safety hotlines numbers.
20. Uber
You’ve heard of Uber, now download the app. If you get lost during a pub crawl, or have been partying and should not be driving, let an Uber driver get you home. Even if your feet hurt because you just had to wear those heels, grab a low-cost Uber ride to get home safe and blister free.
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21. My Fitness Pal
With all the stress, open dining hall food, and hours spent study, the Freshman 15 is not a myth. Even if the extra weight isn’t a concern, taking care of your body will keep your energy up and your mind clear. The My Fitness Pal app has a huge database of nutritional information so you can make good choices. You can enter your exercise program and goals. Stay on top of your health with this free app.
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22. Headspace
Your mental health is as important as your physical health. With all the stress of college, it helps to find ways to de-stress. The Headspace app provides guided meditation for clearing your mind and relaxing your body.
23. Happify
Happify claims their positive reinforcement app helps 86 percent of people who use it. The free app has games and quizzes that increase your mood levels and help get rid of negative thoughts that cause self-doubt.
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Free Apps for Staying Connected
24. LinkedIn
Even if you just started college, you’re going to want to start connecting with professionals in your chosen field. Whether you’re looking for a job or internship, LinkedIn lets you connect with industry thought leaders. Find a mentor or get a feel for the real-life people in your first job. Follow experts for advice, and reach out to potential employers.
25. Trello
College comes with a number of group projects. With a busy life, it’s hard to keep a team organized. The free Trello app works like a group bulletin board to help you work and play well with others. Use cards to create tasks. Add due dates, assign team members, and color code for efficiency.
26. GroupMe
GroupMe is a great way to communicate with a group of friends, coworkers, or teammates. Instead of juggling a bunch of phone numbers, use group chats to coordinate. GroupMe is great for spring break, group assignments, and party nights as well. Want to keep in touch with your besties from high school? GroupMe allows you to stay connected despite the miles.
27. Google Hangouts
Get some face-to-face time with your squad or with you mom. Have a one-on-one chat, or a conference call. Google Hangouts is a great free app when you’re missing familiar faces from home.
Free Apps for Staying Up to Date with the News
28. Flipboard
This streamlined free app lets you create your own magazine right on your smartphone. Flipboard repackages and presents the top stories of the day, keeping you up-to-date however busy your schedule. You can follow news site and social media streams, too, making it personalized just to you.
29. Feedly
This free news app carries the latest headlines from sites like the New York Times. Feedly also lets you follow news blogs and YouTube channels. You can integrate Google Alerts for up-to-the-minute news flashes on any issue.
Free Apps for Shopping
30. Amazon
Amazon pretty much carries everything you could want. From text books to two-hour grocery delivery, Amazon’s free app is a must-have for students. College students get a free six-month membership to Prime. That means two-day shipping on purchases, free online streaming music and video, and other great benefits. Rent textbooks, decorate your dorm, or replace your roommate’s teapot you broke before she gets back from winter break.
31. Poshmark
If you love to keep your style fresh, but can’t afford it because of college expenses, check out Poshmark. Find gently used clothes or sell the stuff you no longer wear. It’s a win-win for fashionistas.
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32. Flipp
If you’ve moved out of the dorms and are stocking your own kitchen, try Flipp for grocery discounts. Flipp integrates weekly flyers from your local stores and gives you alerts on sales and coupons. Save money on your mac and cheese and pantry staples.
Free Apps for Finding Stuff in Your New Town
33. Yelp
The free Yelp app helps you find local places to shop and visit. It’s hard getting used to a new town, and Yelp will help you find the best places to hang. Check reviews on restaurants and entertainment venues. Get a sneak peak at menus and entry prices so you can budget your fun dollars wisely.
34. College Foodz
The College Foodz app features dining options near a range of colleges. Find local restaurants and discounts, and get alerted on dining deals. You can tag your favorites so you’ll be notified whenever they have a deal.
35. AroundCampus
AroundCampus helps you find local business in your college town. Need a haircut or some random dry cleaning? How about an oil change? It also has an “Around Town” section for restaurants and food services.
36. ScoutMob
ScoutMob isn’t available for every city, but it’s worth taking a look. This free apps notifies you of local happenings in the area. You’ll save money on deals and have a blast finding fun things to do in your new location.
These free apps can be lifesavers when it comes to managing the details of college life. Let the tech work for you, and manage your time with these organization tools. Keep your healthy edge with these self-care apps that keep you fit. And make the most of your precious dollars by learning to track, save, and invest your money.
Featured Image: CC0 Creative Commons by Dick Thomas Johnson via Flickr