Car insurance tips for college students.
If you’re a college student or the parent of one, driving a car while enrolled in higher education courses has its benefits. Insurance companies recognize that students offer a lower risk than most drivers in their age group, therefore discounts and other special offers are usually available. But sometimes only if you ask for them. The following are four insurance discounts for college students.
1. Good Grade Discounts
Many car insurance companies offer good grade discounts for college students who maintain a high Grade Point Average (GPA). The discount amount can vary depending on the insurer, but it is typically around 10- to 15 percent off the policy premium. To be eligible for the good grade discount, most insurers require the following:
- The student must be enrolled full-time at an accredited college or university.
- Studmust maintain a minimum GPA, which is typically between 3.0 and 3.5, depending on the insurer.
- The student must provide proof of their grades, such as a transcript or report card.
2. Resident Student Discount
A resident student discount is a type of car insurance discount that is offered by some insurance companies to students who attend college away from home but still maintain their primary residence with their parents. The discount is typically applied to the portion of the premium that covers the student’s car while the vehicle is away at college.
The resident student discount is typically offered because the student is not driving the car as frequently while away at college, and the car may be kept in a lower-risk location, such as a campus parking lot or garage. The discount can vary by insurer, but it is typically around 10- to 15 percent off the portion of the premium that covers the student’s car.
To be eligible for the resident student discount, most insurers require that the student meets the following criteria:
- The student must be under a certain age, typically 24 years old or younger.
- The student must be enrolled full-time in an accredited college or university and live on-campus or off-campus in a college-owned or leased housing facility.
- The student must maintain their primary residence with their parents and the car must be registered at their parents’ address.
3. Multiple Policy Discount
College students with a domicile that isn’t with their parents can still find discounts. In particular, a student who maintains his/her apartment near campus and uses it as their chief residence may find special offers available.
Specifically, a college student who has rental insurance and car insurance, and chooses to bundle these plans with one insurer should find a nominal discount available. If you have other types of insurance and each policy is with the same company, then you should qualify for discounting.
4. Anti-Theft Device Discount
An anti-theft device discount is a type of car insurance discount that is offered by some insurance companies to policyholders who have installed certain anti-theft devices in their vehicles. These devices are designed to deter theft or to aid in the recovery of a stolen vehicle, and can include:
Alarm systems: These devices emit a loud noise when the vehicle is tampered with or moved without authorization.
Immobilizers: These tools prevent the vehicle from being started without the proper key or code.
GPS tracking systems: These gadgets can help locate a stolen vehicle.
Steering wheel locks: These devices prevent the steering wheel from being turned, making it difficult to drive the car.
VIN etching: This involves etching the vehicle’s identification number (VIN) onto the windows, making it difficult for thieves to sell the stolen car.
The discount amount for an anti-theft device can vary depending on the insurer and the type of device installed, but it can typically range from 5- to 25 percent off the comprehensive coverage portion of the policy.
To be eligible for the anti-theft device discount, most insurers require that the device is installed by a certified installer or meets certain industry standards. Some insurers may also require proof of installation or a certificate of authenticity.
Saving Money on Car Insurance
It is important to know that not all insurers offer every type of discount or reward their customers for special equipment purchased. Therefore, consumers should shop around for their insurance needs and get quotes from competing insurers regularly. Finally, if your rates are rising faster than expected, you can ask your insurer to reevaluate your coverage to find savings.
References
Metz, J. (2023, February 14). How To Get Student Car Insurance Discounts. Forbes.
Cook, C. (2023, January 10). Should I Exclude My Child from Auto Insurance While They’re Away at School?. Berry Insurance.
Cothern, L. (2022, May 5). Use These Tips to Lower Car Insurance for College Students. FinanceBuzz.
(2019, April 3). What is VIN etching? Police and Campus Safety. Wayne State University.
See Also — Why is Car Insurance Expensive for Young or First-Time Buyers?
Image Attribution
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Second image by Clker-Free-Vector-Images from Pixabay
