If there’s one thing many students have in common, it’s the fact that they consider themselves ‘broke’.
Many students don’t have part time jobs and rely on their student loans to get by, and even those who do have jobs end up feeling broke as a lot of the money they make can go on accommodation, food, and the rest of the basics.
If you’re going to survive as a broke student, you’re going to need to develop a few skills to help you. Read on to find out what you need to do:
Learn How To Budget Effectively
Budgeting effectively is key if you’re going to survive as a broke student. Using a prepaid budgeting card is a good idea, and many are aimed at students.
You can put a certain amount of cash on the card every month and assign this as your disposable income (for food, nights out and other expenses) so this stays separate from your cash for rent and bills.You always need to take away your money for accommodation and food first, as they will be your biggest two expenses.
If you’re a student in Manchester, for instance, look for an apartment you can afford and take that money away every week without thinking about it. You’re going to need somewhere to stay after all of those nights out.
Don’t Always Give In To Peer Pressure
Peer pressure can be awful. It can mean you end up spending more money and having more hangovers than you would like. If you don’t feel like going out, or you know you can’t afford it, stay strong. Stay in and watch a film instead – or, you know…do some studying.
Plan Your Meals
Never go shopping when you’re hungry, and always plan your meals in advance of the week so you don’t buy food that goes to waste.
It could be a good idea to start cooking in bulk and freezing your food. For example, cook enough veggie bolognese for 4. Divide it into 4 and freeze each portion individually. Now simply defrost a portion for dinner each day and cook some pasta or rice to go with it.
You can also buy damaged produce/boxes of wonky veg, and check the discount rack to see what’s on offer.
Travel Smart
Students tend to need to travel a lot, so if commuting by public transport is unavoidable, make sure you have an 18+ Student Oyster Photocard. You could save up to 30% this way.
Wait For Sales
You’re probably going to buy things you don’t need with your student loan anyway, but at least see if you can wait for the sales for some items. Those shoes you think you’ll wear all the time might be substantially cheaper if you can just wait a few weeks.
Find A Part Time Job
Finally, if you don’t want to scrimp and save as much, you’re going to need to find a part time job. Many websites advertise roles especially for students, so take a look.
