Here’s seven top budgeting tips for uni, from someone who doesn’t understand money

There’s no doubt that budgeting for uni is hard. We’ve all dreaded to look through our bank account the morning after a messy night out. A hot drink at your fave coffee shop sets you back quite a bit, and with York being the third most expensive student city in England, us students have a lot to handle. Trying to balance payments for your rent, groceries and social life is not for the weak. Not to mention the never-ending search for a job- any job.

These seven budgeting tips are a must for all students in order to somewhat afford the uni lifestyle and control your own finances.

1. Meal plan

Unlike common misconceptions, meal planning is not just for gym bros obsessed with their protein-packed diets. It is actually a lifesaver for any uni student on a budget. Knowing what you actually have in your cupboards and freezer will save you a fortune at the checkouts. Even better, having a plan of what you’re going to eat each day will save you from a midweek breakdown, where you start asking ChatGPT what you can make with a single onion, some eggs and milk. (Please take the lesson from someone who has been there xx)

2. Social and food budgeting

Most Read

Influencer shares statement as graphic s*x tape with pop star ex is leaked in ‘cruel betrayal’

Dead body found in pop star’s Tesla finally identified as horrible details emerge

18-year-old lad from Bonnie Blue’s classroom scene reveals what the experience was really like

One of the hardest games to play at uni is deciding whether to spend more on decent food or your third night out that week. Constantly transferring money out of your savings account without any real budget plan is costing you more than you realise. Dividing your budget is key. Allocate set amounts for things like your food shop, rent and nights out. This will ultimately prevent you buying a further round of shots for your friend group at two a.m.

3. Think ahead, buy ahead 

For those of us who are partial to a uni night out, buy your tickets ahead of time. Often, buying tickets online works out cheaper than paying on the door. Every penny counts when you’re a student. Be careful to make sure you are buying tickets from the official website of that club, or the University web page. Scammers exist and you don’t want to be the student that spent money on an event that doesn’t actually exist. The Uni of York often work with clubs to deliver student nights, so make sure the ticket is from a verified source. 

4. Shop second hand

Many of us move to uni making bold statements about how we won’t spend any money on clothes for the year, knowing full well this promise lasts about a week at most. From society and college formals to sports social nights, it’s a guarantee that you’ll have to buy clothing at uni. The easiest way to do this and save your bank balance is to shop second-hand. York is booming with charity shops, and sites like Vinted and Depop always have affordable pieces. So, when you’re looking for your minion costume for your next Wednesday night social, look in the charity shops first. 

5. Student discounts and loyalty cards 

Student discounts have to be the most rewarding part of being a student, it almost makes the thousands of pounds we pay worth it. Sign up for any and every loyalty card. Most supermarkets and cafes have their own loyalty scheme. You may as well be earning points whilst you grab your daily coffee. Even better, many places give your freebies for joining- yes please. There’s something so rewarding about getting a free sweet treat for becoming a member of a cafe you never intend to visit again. 

6. Socialise at home

Despite what Instagram and TikTok lead you to believe, you do not need to go outside to socialise. Socialising at home will save you a ton of money and often is more fun than socialising outside. Planning events like Galentines, Christmas parties, game and movie nights are cost-effective ways to socialise. Something about getting cosy and making a flat dinner is just so wholesome. Also, having no hangover the following day is a huge bonus. 

7. A bank account that works for you

Apologies in advance for having to keep it real here, but getting a free fast food voucher for opening a bank account is not worth it in the long run. Think carefully about what student bank account you choose. As someone who personally has to get a lot of trains home from uni, having a student bank account which comes with a free railcard has saved me a fortune. Other banks also offer money for joining- put that towards your weekly budget! Take a moment to think about the long-term benefits rather than feeding your takeaway addiction.