University finance
Top budgeting tips
There are lots of ways to save money, manage money and even earn money as a student. Here are some of the best suggestions that current and previous students have come up with. Got a good budgeting tip of your own? Share it on our social media channels.
- Find a student bank account with an interest-free overdraft. But remember that the overdraft is just a safety net for any short-term cash-flow problems – don’t rely on it!
- Create two separate bank accounts: one for direct debit commitments such as rent and bills; and one for day-to-day expenses. This way you can’t accidentally spend your rent money!
- Divide the money in your day-to-day account by how many weeks it has to last, and monitor your balance regularly. If you're slipping behind, tighten your belt. If you've somehow got a little ahead - treat yourself!
- Avoid credit cards (including store cards). They charge high interest rates and could give you a bad credit history.
- A summer or Christmas job can build up your savings. Part-time work during term is also available via .
- Sign up for a to get discounts at your favourite shops, and use student websites like to find more discounts.
- Talk with second/third year students - they will know the cheapest local places to shop (and the best time of day to find those yellow-stickered reduced items!).
- Make your own sandwiches. For the cost of one Meal Deal you can buy a loaf of bread and enough filling to last you all week!
- Check eBay for used textbooks (but make sure they're the right edition). Check local second-hand bookshops too - many of last year's students will have got rid of their books rather than cart them home.
- Get help. You don’t have to do it alone. Speak with Student Welfare Service. Talk to someone at the . Check websites such as . You're not the first student to deal with this and you won't be the last.