Hmmmm I am lucky in that I bought my loupes but that my employer allows me to use his light. I would ask your employer if he would be willing to split the cost with you or even pay for it, since they can use the cost as a tax deduction.
Dental conventions will sometimes sell product at a discount. I live near Chicago and there Midwiner convention every February is a great place to purchase supplies. If you are not near a convention that will be held soon maybe you can search the usual sites for second hand lights like ebay or Craig’s List. And I agree with Rdh88 that asking your employer to split the cost or pay for all of it might work. I bought my light with my loupes when I was still in school so I could get the student discount. I love it and can’t work without it. Totally worth the money (even if you have to pay full price).
I’ve been looking on Amazon and ebay here lately. I’m nervous about going that route, but I am also wanting to get one that is more budget friendly and that doesn’t require payments.
Q Optics! Love my loupes and light I purchased from them several years ago. They are great at costumer service and it was the best investment I have ever made as a hygienist. Go for it, you will just wished you had done it sooner. I also second the advice of getting them at a convention so you can get the “Convention” price but they have financing options if you cannot go that route.