It can be hard staying in the black when you are student, however it can be done! Here are our top ten tips for staying out of debt whilst you are at University.

1 – Get a job
A few hours behind a bar each week can net you some much-needed cash plus you will still be able to socialise with your friends as you work. Your student union should be the first port of call – they employ a lot of students on the campus itself and should also have information about any off-campus jobs around.

2 – Get your free cash!
Before you get to University, check out whether you are potentially a candidate for a bursary or scholarship. If you are, get applying! They could help you out with course fees, books or living expenses so it’s an avenue well worth exploring.

3 – Budget
It’s not the most fun thing to do, but it’s important to budget so you don’t blow all your cash in the first few weeks. Set yourself a budget each week and don’t go over the limit. If in doubt, take out the amount of your budget each week in cash, and get someone else to look after your cards so you aren’t tempted to spend on your plastic.

4 – Stay at home
It may not sound like the greatest of fun, but it will save you a lot of money in the long run – potentially thousands of pounds, plus you will get your meals cooked for you and your laundry done!

5 – Shop carefully
Buy in bulk with your housemates. Look for buy one get one free offers, or 3 for 2 offers on products that you will definitely need. Cook all meals from scratch rather that getting take-aways or ready meals as this is much cheaper.

6 – Buy used items
Buy your textbooks second hand – they will still contain the same information as brand new ones but will cost a fraction of the price! Check noticeboards at your University for people selling off their unwanted coursebooks.

7 – Sell used items
Once you hit the second year, if you no longer need your textbooks, sell them on. If you have any unwanted stuff in your room, sell it – either on the University noticeboards or on eBay.

8 – Use your student status!
Lots of places offer student discounts. Make sure you get a student card and carry it with you wherever you go. Even if somewhere does not advertise that they give student discounts, ask! You never know, the answer could be yes and it could save you lots of money.

9 – Get an odd job
If you need some money quickly, or you don’t fancy a long-term job, look for any casual work. Some companies will even pay students to hang around on campus and advertise things!

10 – Ask for money
Let you parents and relatives know if you are hard up and would like cash instead of a present on your birthday or at Christmas. If you are really hard up, most Universities have hardship funds. Ask your administration office for more details.

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