Saving money as a student and keeping to a budget can be difficult. Over the last few years, I have had to learn how to budget with a student lifestyle. After three years of trial and error, the following tips showcase how I budget as a uni student.  

• Setting a weekly budget allows you to know how much you can spend each week and prevents you from going into your overdraft. Once you have your student finances, you can determine how much you have left to spend each week (after deducting necessities such as rent and bills). Keeping this information in a spreadsheet allows you to hold yourself accountable and understand how much money you have for each aspect of your life (i.e. rent, bills, weekly food shopping, going out, and additional purchases). 
• The best budgeting tactic I started using during university is having a designated bank account where I transfer my weekly budget each week. This allows me to monitor how much I’m spending as I can see it deducted from my weekly budget.
  
• It is so easy to get distracted in the supermarket. By creating a weekly shopping list, you know exactly what you need and tend not to buy anything additional. This tip allows me to spend the same amount each week on food, keeping me within my budget. Consider also sharing a food shop with your flatmates and cooking meals together.  
• Whenever I want to buy a new item of clothing, I always look on Depop or Vinted. Shopping second-hand has saved me so much money as you will get the same item of clothing so much cheaper.  
• If you spend most of your money on a night out, try a night in at home with friends to save money rather than going to the pub for drinks. My friends and I love using cards and other games.
• Consider having a part-time job. This allows flexibility within your budget as you have more income.  
• If you know you will be at uni all day, making a packed lunch can save you money and help you stick to your weekly budget. As I have learned from experience, buying meal deals at uni adds up. Additionally, investing in a flask means bringing your homemade coffee instead of buying one.  
• Make sure to get the most out of student discounts. Check UniDays and Student Beans to see what offers they have. You can also check out SUBU’s student offers. 

 Try implementing these budgeting tips into your lifestyle and see how much you save whilst sticking to your budget.  If you’re struggling financially, contact SUBU for advice on how they can help you.

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Living Costs and Budgeting.