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5 tips on managing money as a student

Going to university may be your first experience of true independence. But alongside this new freedom comes the responsibility of having to manage your own finances.

Here are 5 tips that can help you manage your money, so you can make the most of your time at uni.

1. Budgeting can help you stay on top of your finances

Whether you’re looking to give yourself a weekly food allowance, or working out if you can treat yourself to some new jeans, creating a budget can help you make good financial decisions.

2. A student bank account often comes with other benefits

Opening a student current account can give you access to things like an arranged overdraft. If you have one, take some time to understand your student overdraft and the terms and conditions associated with it.

Some student bank accounts also come with a student credit card. If used wisely, a credit card could help you cover unexpected expenses and build a good credit score, but make sure you’re clear on the risks too.

Explore: Should you get a student credit card?

3. Maintenance loans can help cover living expenses

Maintenance loans are available from Student Finance to help students cover the cost of living. The amount you can apply for depends on a few different factors, including your family’s income, whether you live at home and where your uni is based.

Explore: Borrowing money as a student

4. Make the most of student discounts

As a student, there are a whole host of discounts available to you, including on travel, such as the 16-25 railcard, and money off certain shops with a National Union of Students (NUS) card.

5. Now is a good time to plan for your future

Uni is the perfect time to set yourself goals and start saving some money for the future. Whether you’re planning to take a gap year once you’ve finished your degree, or start saving for a deposit for a home, setting yourself a target can help make it more achievable. 

The earlier you start saving, the more time your money has to grow.