Five Tips to Help Save Money as a Student

At the end of every day, food produce shops will discount any food that is nearing its sell-by date. Ask a store assistant what time they do that and then turn up just before so that you can grab the best deals. It might not seem like much at the time but if you can get a couple of pounds off your food shop each week, it all adds up at the end of the year.

Most student houses are located fairly close to the uni but, if possible, try to find a place to live that is within walking distance to campus. Not only will it motivate you to actually turn up to your lectures, it will also save you having to pay out for a bus card or taxis every time you have to venture onto campus.

One of the huge benefits of being a student is that you have access to a huge number of discounts. Before paying in any shop, check with the cashier if they offer a student discount and keep your eye out for local discount cards that you can get your hands on as a student, such as railcards. And if you haven’t already, sign up for an International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which allows you to prove your student status around the world and access thousands of discounts.

If you get along with your housemates, then cooking as a group can be a great way to save money. If that isn’t an option for you, then cook in bulk for yourself and freeze the leftovers. By planning your meals ahead, and cooking in bulk you’ll find that your food (and therefore your money) goes a lot further each week.

These tips won’t leave you rolling in money, but they should help to keep your bank balance looking a little bit healthier each month!

Shannon Clark writes for Inspiring Interns, which specializes in sourcing candidates for internships and graduate jobs. You can find more of her work at www.shannonlclark.com and www.sweetserendipityblog.co.uk.