Making your Money Stretch at University

Spend less, enjoy more.

Student bank account

Student bank accounts allow you to access an interest-free overdraft during your time at university and are available with most major high street banks and building societies. Usually, they mature into a graduate account after graduation, allowing you a few years to pay off the debt, interest-free. It is important to check the terms of your student account, especially before arranging an overdraft, so you are aware of the risks of debt and the repayment terms. Different banks offer different perks, usually including a payment into your account along with another benefit, such as a railcard or food delivery vouchers. Research into the perks of each account to see what is best for you.

Railcard

The 16-25 Railcard is available to anyone aged 16 to 25 and provides one-third off all rail travel across the UK. This is excellent between Southampton and home, and for more affordable day trips. Railcards can be purchased for a small fee from the Railcard website. There are a collection of other Railcards available, such as the 26-30 Railcard and the Disabled Persons Railcard. Railcards can also be linked with an Oyster card for students who regularly travel through London.

Unidays and StudentBeans

These apps offer student discounts at many major restaurants, clothing stores, and online retailers. Simply download the apps, sign up for free, and verify your student status with your university email address. Discounts come in the form of codes, which you can add to online baskets, or QR codes that can be scanned in-store.

Stocking up on essentials

It is a great idea to stock your cupboards with long-lasting food, such as pasta, so you always have something to eat if you need it. This means that after a long day, you will be less tempted to order a takeaway and can instead cook for yourself at a fraction of the price.

Student nights out

Pubs, bars, and clubs often offer far cheaper drinks on weekdays for students, compared to the much busier, more expensive Friday and Saturday nights. It is a great idea to take advantage of these offers so you can enjoy Southampton’s nightlife without breaking the bank.

📍The Mitre

The Mitre offers a student discount every day of the week on both drinks and food.

📍The Gordon Arms

Every Monday to Wednesday, The Gordon Arms offers £2.50 pints between 6 pm and 8 pm after showing a student ID.

📍Circuit Wednesday (Fishes)

Popular night out for sports societies. It is often very busy, with tickets sold in advance and offers cheaper drinks.

📍Trilogy Thursday

A popular student night out in Bedford Place, offering discounted drinks. Also has a student night on Tuesday, boasting £1.50 drinks.

Weekly budgeting

Although budgeting seems obvious, it is the best way to ensure you don’t overspend. It may help to set up a separate bank account into which you move a set weekly allowance. This makes it clear how much you have left for the week and makes you more conscious of your spending. Your weekly budget must be realistic and achievable (not ridiculously low) but also not so high that you still feel you can spend without restriction. It can help to specify how much of your weekly budget you spend on each category, e.g. your food shop, coffee runs, etc.

Shop second-hand

Portswood High Street has plenty of charity shops where you can buy second-hand clothing. You can also make use of apps like Vinted to shop second-hand online.