Save money on your regular spending
Saving money at university can be easily started with your regular spending. Some of your daily expenses can be more expensive than they need to be. For instance, you can save on your groceries by shopping at cheaper stores, like Aldi, to get more value for money. As well as this, instead of buying a coffee in the morning before a lecture or a takeaway for lunch, find a way to ditch those costs. . Instead of buying coffee, you can make your own coffee and bonus is you will be using a reusable container, helping reduce single plastic waste.
Make a budget
Saving money at university is tough, especially if you haven’t set a budget. Student loan money soon quickly disappears if you don’t have a plan. Think about how much money you’ll need in a week and take it out in advance. You could use the ‘envelope method’ in which you withdraw weekly cash and put this in an envelope. This method can be useful if you lack discipline in the spending arena. Alternatively, you can get a Monzo card which allows you to transfer small amounts of money for your weekly or even monthly budget. Meaning you can leave your other card at home with peace of mind that you won’t overspend!
Look out for deals and discounts
Students have an array of discounts up for grabs and looking out for them can save you a significant amount of money. A TOTUM card, for instance, provides access to over 200 student discounts in the UK in store and online. It also acts as an International Student Identity Card for use abroad-handy for international students.
Also, consider getting a 16-25 Railcard, which cuts a third off off-peak train tickets and tube fares. This is particularly useful if you often travel to see family and friends.
For a further look at the regular students discounts and deals going on, also check out this link: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/deals/student-discounts/.
Bring down big spending
Costs of textbooks and laptops-which many consider essential can get high. Just a basic laptop can be very expensive and something some students can’t afford. In this case, try shopping around online or going for cheaper options such as Chromebooks and second-hand laptops.
Also, at the start of a new term you’ll likely be given a list of textbooks you’ll need for your course. These can easily add up to high costs, so it’s recommended that you check whether your campus library has it first or look for a less expensive, second hand version online. If you’re lucky and bump into someone on your course from the year above, they may offer you their old textbook at a heavy discount too.
Activate those budget apps
Budgeting apps can be a fun and interactive way for you to manage your finances. Applications like Mint and Monzo will group all of your purchases into categories such as food and bills. real-time push notifications when you’re heading over budget in each area. It’s almost like having a virtual accountant at your fingertips!
Well there you have it – that’s our top tips on managing and saving money at university. Hopefully you’ve learnt something you can apply to your finances to ensure you feel confident managing your finances at university.
Student accommodation can play a big part in student finances. From budget, to property features and if bills are included. Head to www.student.com to search for your perfect home away from home whatever your budget.