A $300 million cash-for-clunkers type government program will soon help students fill their large ticket appliance needs.

The program was designed to boost sales of energy-efficient home appliances for hurting makers of washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerators, etc.

Beginning this fall, the program will allow for rebates of $50 to $200 for purchases of high-efficiency household appliances, a nice break for cash-strapped students in need of large appliances.

The money is distributed to states as part of the broader stimulus program passed in February by congress and President Obama. The program details vary by state, but the Energy Department set a deadline of Oct. 15 for states to file for the money. Most likely, the bulk of the money will be distributed by the end of November.

For products to qualify for the program, they must tout the “Energy Star” label. A trade group for energy-efficient appliances calculated that students who upgrade to energy efficient appliances could potentially save up to $78 in electricity per year.