9 Apps You’ll Need In University

Heading to university is an exciting time! Be ready to meet new life-long friends, get inspired by the community, and fill your brain with knowledge. With these nine apps, you’ll be able to keep track of your busy academic and social life, while getting your money and your mind sorted.  

Take on the Town With CityMapper

If you live in one of the many major cities around the world, CityMapper is a must-download. This travel app helps you get around whether you want to call a cab, cycle around, ride an electric scooter or take the subway.   

It’s the best way to plan your day and to make sure you’re taking the fastest route when you’re late for class. The interface is straightforward to navigate, and it’s convenient to use when you’re in a bind. You can set familiar locations such as university buildings that you frequent and your home.

CityMapper will also show you an estimated cost of taking a cab rather than public transportation. You’ll be able to see the bus and metro schedule, which will help you make an informed decision. 

Evernote for Everything

Evernote is a one-stop-shop that will help you stay organized. If you’re in a lecture, you can store all of your notes in one place, and return to them after reading. Whether you’re pursuing Political Science or Robotics, this app makes it easy to keep track of coursework and assignments and quickly find useful resources. 

Essentially, Evernote is a digital binder. You can create notebooks and customize their content. If you’re someone who prefers to take handwritten notes, you can use the app to scan them. You can even snap images of whiteboards and handouts, or record class discussions if you’re permitted. 

Track Your Strides With Strava

Strava uses GPS to keep track of your route, whether you’re taking a weekend hike or walking to class. Having this app handy is kind of like having a fit bit built into your phone. 

Do you ride your bike everywhere? Strava is perfect for cycling. This free download is compatible with a host of GPS gadgets. There are challenges held every month that will motivate you to get outside and to stay active. College students do a lot of walking, so why not keep track?

Mint: Be Financially Wise

Budgeting is never fun, but with Mint, it’s a little bit easier and aesthetically pleasing. With this app, you can create a plan for your money, keep track of any bills you might have, and know how much is in your account. It’s also an excellent way to keep track of your credit score, which is a good thing to think about as you enter adult life. 

Microwave Cooking

If you’re going to be living in a dorm, chances are the only appliance you’ll have access to is a microwave. Reheating cups of noodles and instant mac and cheese gets old fast.

Microwave Recipes is an app that shows you how to prepare delicious snacks, soups, breakfast, dessert, and even full entrees, all within that tiny radioactive powerhouse. 

Clean Clothes With Shine

It’s cute; your grandmother probably gave you a char of quarters she’s been saving up for years to prepare you for the struggle – laundry day. There’s nothing worse than dorm washer and dryers that cost $4 each and only accept quarters. 

With Shinepay.co, our cries for help have finally been answered. Use the app to set up an account, especially for your dirty clothes, and quickly pay without having to lug around a bag of heavy coins on top of your hamper. 

Grammarly Keyboard

If you have to send an email to a professor or write an important essay, you’ll have to have proper grammar. Your words must be free of error. After spending a lot of time in the library working on a midterm research paper, your eyes get tired, and it’s easy to overlook crucial mistakes. 

With Grammarly on your smartphone, tablet, and laptop, you’ll always have a second eye keeping check of spelling and grammar mistakes. 

Chegg Books

Textbooks are expensive, especially when you buy them at the university store full price. Check the Chegg Books app to see if the book you need for class is available at a discount price. You can even rent them if you prefer. Sell back your books whenever you’re done with your course. It’ll be nice to have some extra cash to celebrate the end of the semester. 

Spotify Music

Every study session needs a soundtrack. Whether it’s classical to keep you focused, or a nice lo-fi to help your writing, music can be a helpful addition to many hours spent at the library. Spotify Premium is available to students for just $4.99 a month, and you’ll even get a free subscription to Hulu and Showtime. 

The Verdict

Just like flip-flops for the shower and red-solo cups for parties, these nine apps belong on your list of college essentials. You’ll be happy to have these tools easily accessible when you’re making your way through campus and dorm life.