Moving away to university is exciting, sure, but it’s not without its challenges. Many students find that their bank balance isn’t quite as healthy as they’d like it to be within a few months of starting their studies. Of course, that students have little money is so widely understood that it’s essentially a cliche. Yet, like all good cliches, it doesn’t have to be true. With a bit of work, students can have a much better grip on their financial health. We’ll run through some of the most effective money-boosting tips below, which should make a big difference. And the best part? Unlike other articles, which tend to focus on belt-tightening measures, our points can help to enhance your university experience, along with your bank balance. 

The idea of saving money voluntarily sounds nice, but it’s usually out of sync with reality. If it’s in your main account, you’ll be much more likely to spend it. Instead, look at automatically transferring money each week into a savings account. Even small amounts can add up to a decent amount when spread over a matter of months. This is a good way to have money available for Christmas, trips, and other relatively high-value expenses without having to do additional damage to your bank account. 

The right student accommodation will not only elevate your university experience, but it can also have a positive impact on your bank balance. The reason? You’ll be happier to spend time at home if you genuinely like being there, and spending time at home is a lot cheaper than having to entertain yourself out-of-doors. People who don’t like their student accommodation tend to spend a lot more time doing expensive things, not because they necessarily want to, but because they don’t like where they live. So don’t just choose the first place you come across. Take some time to carefully assess the student lettings near your university, and find the one that’s right for you. Plus, aside from helping indirectly save money, you’ll also find that the right digs make it easier to study and simply enjoy all that comes from living away from home. 

Even if you want to save money, you’ll probably find it difficult to do so if you have to eat the bulk of your meals outside of your home. While student areas have affordable eateries, the costs can quickly add up, even eating just dinner out can add up to a small fortune when multiplied over a month. You’ll find it much easier to save money if you not only know how to cook, but also how to cook meals that you actually want to eat. We’d recommend having 3 - 5 easy-to-make, delicious recipes in your locker. That’ll ensure that you quickly whip up food from the comfort of your own home. 

In all likelihood, you’ll have a bunch of flatmates that you’ll be living with, and that provides a great opportunity to save money. Think of it this way, you don’t all need to have your own Netflix subscription, spices, cutlery, and so forth. It’ll be much better for your bank balance if you split those costs between everyone in the household. 

Thrifting isn’t just a way to save money; it can also lead to much better quality products. Think about clothes, for example, stuff from the main high street stores can look a little stiff and also tend to be seasonal. An item of clothing from a vintage store, however, will be a fraction of the cost and have a style that is made to last. Other items, too, such as electronics, products for the house, and, well, virtually everything, can be bought second-hand if you know where to look.  You’ll need to learn the art of buying used, but once you have, you’ll find that you can help your bank balance and look fantastic at the same time. 

Finally, look at getting a part-time job! Even a few hours a week can make a difference. Not only will this help bring in some cash, but it also saves you money, it’s hard to spend money when you’re working — and it can also be bags of fun if you find the right one. Plus, you’ll meet a lot more people and feel like a greater part of the city that you’re temporarily calling home while at university.