The GSA is currently looking into more affordable alternatives for optical services in New Haven. For now, I thought I'd provide a quick list of resources for students in need of vision care. If you happen to know of opticians who provide discounts to students that are not on this list, please let me know.  

Yale Health Services provides eye exams and emergency eye care for all students.  Services are fully covered if you have Yale Hospitalization coverage; otherwise, your alternate insurance provider will be billed.  You do not need a referral to make an appointment for an eye exam; be aware that the department makes appointments up to 6 months in advance.

CO-Health Vision Collegiate Plan costs $15/individual a year (or $12/year in addition to the Dental Discount Plan), and provides 10% off ophthalmic services (contact lens fittings, for example).  This plan comes with a 20-60% discount on eyeglasses and contact lenses, so it may be worth looking into if you will be spending a lot on vision care in a given year.

 Kennedy and Perkins: Tell them you are a Yale student. You should receive a 10% discount.

CO-Health Vision Collegiate Plan See above for quoted discounts on glasses and contacts.

Costco If you have a Costco membership already, their vision care / optician services may be worth looking into.  The Costco in Milford has a vision care center, and does eye exams.

Other places to consider for low-cost eyewear: Wal-mart, Pearle Vision (AAA, Student Advantage Discounts), LensCrafters (AAA discounts)