Student Life: Handy tips that could save you money

Your student loan always makes your bank balance look pretty healthy, but only if you spend sensibly! Don't go splashing the cash because, remember...

You need to try make your loan last all term, unless you fancy being stuck on a diet of plain rice for a couple of months. Not fun! 

Managing your own money for the first time isn't easy, but these handy tips might mean you can afford to actually treat yourself now again...

• List your incomings and outgoings: That way you know how much you've got left over, and there's probably an app that will help you do it so it's not as much of a chore as it sounds!
• Can you afford luxuries? Yep, that does include nights out and eating out! Once you know how much you have, you can plan little things to keep your social life afloat.
• Write a shopping list: This can probably be done on an app too if you're too lazy to write it. Most your money can easily be wasted on food so plan your weekly meals so that you only buy what you need.
• Check your statement: Once a week put aside five minutes and check your statement just so you don't have any surprises at the end of the month. 
• Flash your ID: Whenever (and wherever!) you go shopping take your student card with you to get that all important student discount. Some shops have it even if it's not advertised so it's worth asking about.
• Save money on travel: Make sure you get a student travel pass for your city and don't forget your Young Person's railcard. They're investments but will seriously cut down travel costs around town and when you're travelling home. 
• Struggling? Talk to someone: If you are having any money difficulty - talk to your friends, family or someone at University about it. Don't let it get to the stage when you've maxed out your overdraft and you're stuck in your room. 

If you have any queries about financial support, it doesn't matter if you're an undergraduate, postgraduate, part-time or international student - we will try our best to help!

Thanks to our friends at WLV Campus Life for this article