One of the big perks of being a post-secondary student is the discounts. They may be a little hard to track down (many restaurants and local stores don't advertise them), but they'll help you save a couple bucks when you're feeling less-than-affluent. Flash your student ID at one of these joints and you'll find yourself with a little more money in your pocket.

Here are my picks for the top places to use your student card in Toronto.

TTC
Buying a TTC Metropass is a painful ritual that most Torontonians take part in once a month. As a student, the process is slightly more bearable, as you get a discounted rate that is almost $30 less than the average adult pass. Unfortunately, you'll also have to cough up an additional few bucks to get your TTC student card, but it's worth it in the long run.

Greyhound
If you're from out of town, you'll know that getting back to your hometown can do some serious damage to your bank account. Flash your student card at the Greyhound station when purchasing your ticket and you'll get 10% off. That should help in the decision-making process when you're weighing the pros and cons of having a microwave dinner in an empty apartment on Christmas.

TOPSHOP/TOPMAN
The UK retailer is responsible for making the city far more fashionable, but can be a little hard on the wallet. The store stocks many high-priced printed button-ups and imitation leather jackets, but also has a selection of fairly affordable basics. If you feel the need to splurge, don't feel too guilty - with your student card you can get 10% off, which eliminates most of the taxes.

Henry's
Henry's is not the most inexpensive retailer when it comes to cameras, but it does offer a mean student deal that will help you get through any photography course. With 20% off rentals, you won't have to commit to buying a DSLR that you're only planning to use for one project. Or, if you need to purchase some new gear, they offer 10% off selected items.

The AGO
Need some inspiration? There's no better way to get it than by viewing some of the finest art our city has to offer. Instead of paying the regular ticket price of $19.50, you'll only have to drop $11 (providing you have your student ID on hand). Or, if you're free after 3 on Wednesday, so is your admission.

Curry's
If you need to stock up on art supplies, Curry's is where to go. All you art school students can use the 10% student discount to purchase all the brushes you never thought you could afford. For all the students stuck writing essays, take advantage of the deal for ballpoint pens and notebooks. Above Ground offers the same student discount, if you're not within reach of Curry's.

The ROM
Why quit learning when you leave class? Take a trip to the ROM free of charge on any Tuesday. You'll be able to scope out everything from dinos to Egyptian mummies without dropping a dime. If you can't make it to the museum on Tuesday, your ticket will cost $15.50 instead of the regular adult fare of $17.

Future Bakery
If you're prone to burning your breakfast while trying to get ready for class, Future has got you covered. Skip the blackened toast or frozen Eggo, and instead head to this popular Annex eatery. If you show your student ID, you'll get 20% off any all-day breakfast. Make sure to take advantage of it during the school year as the deal kicks off when classes do and ends when summer rolls around.

TIFF Bell Lightbox
If you want to catch a flick at the TIFF Bell Lightbox, be sure to remember your student card. Instead of paying the $13.00 for a screening, you'll only have to shell out $10.50. That may not seem like the most impressive bargain, but those few extra cents will make all the difference when grocery day rolls around.

T.O. TIX
If you're more partial to live stage shows than movies, no problem. With valid ID, students aged 14-29 can purchase $5 tickets to some of the best shows Toronto has to offer. Whether you're in the mood for comedy, theatre, dance or opera, T.O. TIX will keep you entertained all semester long.

Thanks to RBC for sponsoring this post.

What did I miss? Add your favourite place for student discounts to the comments. Photo of the AGO by Aida Dasilva in the blogTO Flickr pool.