Get money smarter!
Published on 20 December 16
Did you get to week 5 and realise your money for the semester wasn't going to last anywhere near as long as you thought? If so, take a look at our top tips to manage your finances and hopefully help your money go further in 2017.
Get money smarter
Blackbullion is our new, free money management resource which gives you control over your finances and will ease the stress of managing your money. What’s even better is you can complete the sessions on your phone so whether you’re waiting for the bus or in between lectures you can get money smarter.
Plan, plan, plan
A budget is a great way to keep track of your spending and ensure you get no nasty surprises at the end of the semester. You could try making a spreadsheet, try Fudget which is a free budgeting app that does all the work for you or you could complete the budgeting module on Blackbullion!
Be a thrifty foodie
We know that 65% of students let finances affect their diet so try to avoid ready meals, and batch cook your favourite meal replacing meat with beans and pulses. A tin of chickpeas could cost you as little as 35p so as well as being a great source of protein they are also a great way to bulk up meals, meaning your tasty chicken curry stretches even further!
As convenient as a meal deal is, if you were to buy your favourite meal deal every day you would spend £600 per academic year. That could go towards a trip to a festival or a luxury holiday abroad! Why not bring your own lunches and start planning your next trip away.
For more thrifty food ideas check out our My Food page.
Increase your income - part time jobs
Part-time jobs are a great way to earn a bit of extra money and gain some experience. Always remember however to balance any work commitments with your studies and think realistically about how much you can take on.
The Careers Service can help you with find a part time job, check your CV and prepare you for interviews. Visit the Careers Desk in the Atrium of University Place to book an appointment.
Increase your income - postgrad funding
If you're a postgrad, keep searching for funding opportunities. There are a wide range of funding opportunities available from scholarships to charities and trusts.
Check out our fact sheet for more information.
Discounts
As a student you can benefit from a range of student discounts, check out our discounts page for more info! We have also put together a page full of cheap and free things to do in Manchester.
Ask for help if you need it
Don't ignore money problems. If things don't go to plan financially or you’re just worried about how to get through the semester, do talk to someone. You can speak to the Student Support and Advice Team in the Atrium of University Place or the Student’s Union Advice Centre.