Lifestyle

Managing money as a University Student

By AlonsoRLA 01 Mar 2023

Managing money as a university student can be challenging. With the pressure of academic responsibilities and the desire to have fun and explore new things, it can be easy to lose track of your finances. However, managing your money effectively is crucial for your financial stability both during and after university. In this article, I will share some of the tips I find helpful for managing my money as a University student. Further guidance and support can be found on the Student Intranet.

1. Creating a Budget

The first step to managing your money effectively is creating a budget. A budget is a plan that outlines your income and expenses. It will help you to track your spending, plan for the future and avoid overspending. You can create a budget using a spreadsheet or budgeting app. Start by listing all your income sources, including any part-time job, student loan, or grants. Then, list all your expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. Make sure your expenses don't exceed your income. If your expenses are higher than your income, look for ways to cut back on unnecessary expenses.

2. Avoid impulsive buying

It's easy to get carried away with impulse buying when you're in university. However, this can lead to overspending and accumulating debt. To avoid impulse buying, create a shopping list before you go shopping, and stick to it. Also, avoid shopping when you're hungry, as this can make you more susceptible to impulse buying. If you see something you want but don't need, wait a few days before making the purchase. This will give you time to evaluate whether you really need the item.

3. Take advantage of student discounts

Many businesses offer discounts to students. You can take advantage of these discounts to save money on various expenses, such as textbooks, software, transportation, and entertainment. Always ask if a student discount is available before making a purchase. You can also download student discount apps to find the best deals in your area.

4. Cook your meals

Eating out can be expensive, especially if you're eating out regularly. To save money on food expenses, cook your meals at home. Cooking your meals is not only cheaper but also healthier. You can also batch cook your meals and freeze them, so you always have a healthy meal ready to eat. Also, make a shopping list before going grocery shopping and stick to it.

5. Use credit cards responsibly

Credit cards can be a useful tool for building credit, but they can also lead to debt if not used responsibly. If you're going to use a credit card, make sure you pay off the balance in full every month. This will help you avoid paying interest on your balance. Also, only use your credit card for essential expenses, such as tuition fees or groceries.

In conclusion, managing money as a university student requires discipline and planning. By creating a budget, avoiding impulse buying, taking advantage of student discounts, cooking your meals, and using credit cards responsibly, you can manage your money effectively and avoid financial problems. Remember, managing your finances is not only important during university but also in the future!

You can find further advice on managing your money here. You can also contact the Student Advice and Money Team for further support and guidance relating to your finances.