The cost-of-living crisis is affecting many households in the UK, and students are no exception. If you are considering applying for university through Clearing, finances and living costs may be a key factor in making your decision.
Concerns about finances shouldn’t mean that getting a place at your dream university through Clearing is out of reach. With some handy budgeting hacks, part-time jobs, and university support systems, you can be confident in managing your university finances. Here are some ways to make your studies more affordable:
STUDENT DISCOUNTS
As a uni student you’ll be opening yourself up to a whole host of student discounts. Using discount cards such as Totum and websites like UniDays and Studentbeans, endless money-off opportunities await you. You can find deals on anything and everything, making purchases more affordable.
Before buying anything, check to see if a student discount is on offer, sign up to mailing lists and always ask at store counters!
It’s important to be responsible, spend wisely and make (and keep to) a budget when beginning university life.
But it isn’t all stress and worry when it comes to the pounds and pennies.
STUDENT BANK ACCOUNTS
Before you start university, it’s recommended that you open a student bank account. These bank accounts operate similarly to a current account and come with great benefits. These usually include 0% interest on overdrafts, or freebies such as railcards and free access to Amazon Prime. Some provide discounts that could help you get hold of uni textbooks or enjoy a cheap meal out.
There are many options to choose from, so we would recommend using websites such as Money Saving Expert that break down the best student bank accounts on the market.
FLEXIBLE, PART-TIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES
To earn extra cash during university, Birmingham City University (BCU) offers plenty of flexible part-time jobs on campus that can easily fit around your studies. These include representing the University as a student ambassador or working in the catering team for the Students’ Union.
Students at BCU can also draw on the support of the Careers+ team when looking for job opportunities; they review CVs, cover letters, and provide interview tips to enable you to secure a role.
There are plenty of benefits to part-time work that aren’t just money-focused. You can build transferable skills, gain confidence in a professional setting, and even make new friends!
TRANSPORT AND TRAVEL OPTIONS
By choosing certain student bank accounts, many students can take advantage of a free rail card to reduce the cost of commuting to university. Discounted travel is also available through student bus passes, getting you around Birmingham for a cheaper rate.
Accommodation options available to BCU students are helpfully situated close to the city centre, meaning that most students are able to walk to campus, and can easily access all of the social activities the city provides.
UNIVERSITY FINANCIAL SUPPORT
If you’re planning on applying through Clearing to start university this September, you can access resources to create that all-important student budget, create a weekly plan of cheap meals and listen to podcasts from financial experts as part of BCU’s Get Ready for Uni content hub.
Once you enrol at university, BCU’s Student Support team is on hand to help you with everything from student finance to accessing welfare benefits, and offer tiered levels of support based on your individual needs.
You could start at university as soon as this September through Clearing.
Download our guide here to find out more: www.bcu.ac.uk/clearing-guide.