Cost of living: Top tips on how to save as a student

Undergraduate student ambassador Corren shares his top tips on how to save as a university student.

Creating a budget is crucial for university students as it helps to manage finances and avoid overspending. Many students often receive money from their parents or student loans, but it's essential to make the most of this money to survive in the university. By creating a budget, you can track your spending and understand where your money is going. For example, you can identify areas where you're spending too much money and make cuts in those areas. This way, you can make sure that your expenses are within your means.

Eating out can be expensive, especially in a university city like Coventry or Warwick. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and food outlets around the university, but they can be costly for a student's budget. Cooking at home can be a great way to save money and eat healthily. You can buy groceries in bulk and cook several meals at once to save time and money. Many student accommodations come with shared kitchens, making it easier to cook at home. You can also learn to cook different cuisines by sharing cooking experiences with your flatmates, making your university life more exciting.

As a student, there are plenty of discounts available on different products and services. Many restaurants, cafes, and shops offer student discounts, which can help you save money. You can also get student discounts on transport, museums, and events. To benefit from these discounts, you'll need to show your student ID card. Keep an eye out for student deals on campus noticeboards or sign up for student discount websites to get regular updates on offers.

Textbooks are an essential part of university life, but they can be expensive. New textbooks can cost hundreds of pounds, which can be a significant expense for students. One way to save money on textbooks is to buy them second-hand. You can look for used textbooks online, visit local bookstores or use book exchange groups. You can also ask seniors or coursemates who have already taken the class to borrow or buy their used textbooks.

Socialising is an essential part of university life, and there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people and have fun. However, social activities can be expensive, especially if you're going out often. You can save money by limiting your social activities, finding cheaper alternatives, or setting a budget for social activities. You can also look for free events on campus or in the city, such as concerts, exhibitions, or workshops, that can help you save money while enjoying university life.

Public transportation is a cost-effective way to get around Coventry or Warwick. You can save money by taking buses instead of taking ubers. The bus company offers free or discounted bus passes to students, making it easier to travel around the city. Using public transportation can also be an eco-friendly option, helping to reduce your carbon footprint.

Part-time jobs or freelance work can help you earn some extra cash while studying. There are plenty of opportunities available for students, such as working on campus, freelancing as a writer, or working as a tutor. Part-time jobs or gigs can also help you develop new skills and gain valuable experience, which can be useful for your future career.

Discover more about how the University of Warwick is helping students with managing their finances along with the different support services they provide.