Finance &
Money
Getting comfortable with planning and sticking to a precise budget will make your University life a lot easier.
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OUR TOP TIPS
1. BUDGET
Start by adding up all your incoming money from student loans, parents/guardians, jobs etc and then deduct all your essential outgoing money for tuition fees, rent, bills, food etc. The total you’re left with is what you have budgeted for socialising and buying non-essential things you want - like your fancy dress outfit for the Headingley Mile! If you’re on a budget remember that being sociable doesn’t have to be expensive, think nights in with housemates, free events at the Union or days in the park!
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Why not try a budget planner template or browse apps that may work for you.
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2. SHOP SMART & SAVE
Utilise your student discount wherever you are, whether in shops or online. If you’re living in a student house you’re automatically exempt from paying council tax and could be entitled to free medical prescriptions too so be sure to find out what else you don’t have to pay for as a student.
Discount cards like the NUS TOTUM will guarantee you’ll get money off in most places and the 16-25 railcard will give you a third off your train fares, handy if Leeds isn’t so close to home.
3. YOU DON'T HAVE TO LIVE OFF BAKED BEANS
It’s not that difficult to eat well on a student budget if you plan your meals in advance and stick to your shopping list when you head to the supermarket. You can even decide a weekly menu with your housemates and save money by eating together.
Batch cooking and freezing your meals is a quick and easy trick to avoid wasting food and can be a lifesaver during exams when you have no time to prep but need good food to keep you going. Having stock in the freezer is also great as a backup plan for when the cupboards are bare! Check out more information in our Healthy Eating section!