Heading to university is an exciting time - new friends, new freedom, and new opportunities. But with rising living costs, it can also be a financial challenge.
Whether you're just starting out or already settled in, saving money as a student is all about being smart with your choices. Here's your ultimate student budgeting guide with 11 practical, UK-specific tips to help you cut costs (without cutting back on fun 👀).
1. Set a Realistic Budget – and Stick to It
The first step to saving money is knowing where it’s going. Use budgeting apps like Monzo, or Emma to track spending and set weekly limits for food, fun, and essentials.
2. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
From ASOS and Spotify to railcards and restaurants, there’s almost always a student discount. Sign up to UNiDAYS, TOTUM, and Student Beans to grab exclusive offers online and in-store.
3. Shop Second-Hand
Save big on textbooks, clothes, and even kitchenware by checking:
Facebook Marketplace
Vinted / Depop
Local charity shops
Uni book swaps or buy/sell groups
You’ll spend less and reduce waste.
4. Cook in Batches (and Avoid Takeaways)
Step away from the takeaway... It adds up fast! Cooking with your flatmates or batch-making meals is a total wallet-saver – and trust us, future-you will love finding leftovers waiting in the fridge after a long day.
5. Use Your Uni Resources First
Need software? Equipment? Study support? Your university probably offers more than you realise – from free Adobe or Microsoft licences to library printers, career services, and mental health support. Use them!
P.S. Did we mention that NMITE provide you with your very own free laptop? 😮
6. Bag a Railcard or Bus Pass
Travelling home? Visiting mates? A 16–25 Railcard or student bus pass can slice a third off your travel costs. Even if you’re not a regular traveller, it often pays for itself after just a couple of trips – win.
7. Share the Stream
No need for five separate Netflix accounts in one flat. Share where you can – Spotify Duo, Prime Student, Netflix family plans – just check the small print. It’s all legit (and way cheaper).
8. Pick a Bank That Gives Back
Not all student bank accounts are created equal. Some come with free railcards, cash bonuses or generous overdrafts. Take 10 minutes to compare your options – it’s money in your pocket for doing basically nothing.
9. Find a Side Hustle That Fits
Part-time job? Freelance gigs? There’s something for every schedule. Check your uni’s job board, rep your course as a student ambassador, or dive into platforms like Fiverr and TaskRabbit. Top-up cash = more takeaway wiggle room (just saying).
10. Don’t Get Burned by Buy Now, Pay Later
Klarna might look tempting, but it’s a slippery slope. One missed payment can wreck your credit. Unless it’s an emergency (like, actual emergency), try to stick with what’s in your account.
11. Ask About Extra Support
Most unis offer help if money’s tight – from bursaries to hardship funds. At NMITE, we’ve even got NMITE Boost to help with living costs. You won’t know what’s available if you don’t ask – so ask.
Remember, saving doesn’t mean missing out.
Uni is about learning and living – and with a few smart swaps, you can do both without draining your bank account.
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NMITE offers hands-on degrees, flexible entry, and cost-of-living help. Check out our full range of degrees.
