Money tips for university students

Being a university student can be expensive, but there are ways to save money and stick to a budget. Here are some of my tips to help you manage your finances while at University:

1. Make a budget and stick to it. Write down all your income and expenses and determine how much money you have left over each month. Be sure to include items like tuition, books, rent, and groceries in your budget. It is easy to budget and avoid impulse shopping when you organise a click-and-collect or delivery for your groceries online with Woolworths and Coles.
2. Look for ways to reduce your expenses. For example, buy used textbooks instead of new ones, cook at home instead of eating out, and take public transportation instead of driving. You might find changing your phone plan saves you money by shopping around! Instead of Optus and Telstra for your phone, consider AGL, Aldi or Boost Mobile.
3. Get a part-time job. This will not only provide you with extra income but also give you valuable work experience. There are lots of jobs available in the service industry at the moment, consider employment doing online data entry, retail or hospitality. If you have a car, you can also consider food delivery or Uber, so you can be your own boss. Book an appointment with International Student Employability to receive support and guidance on finding part-time work and plan towards securing post-graduate employment in your desired industry.
4. Take advantage of student discounts. Many businesses offer discounts to students, so be sure to carry your student ID with you and ask about discounts when you shop. The pancake parlour has a good value student menu, perfect for a meal before or after the movies! Make sure you sign up for UniDays for great discounts on Spotify (music), The Age (news) as well as the Iconic (shopping) and Dominos Pizza.
5. Avoid credit cards. Credit cards can be tempting, but they can also lead to high levels of debt. Try to pay for things with cash or a debit card instead. Your bank will help you set up your debit card, which you can use to shop online just like a credit card but spend your own money instead.
6. Look for scholarships and grants. Many organizations offer scholarships and grants to students, so be sure to research and apply for any that you may qualify for. Federation University has scholarships to help all students with their tuition, accommodation and even to help during placement. Visit our scholarships website to learn more.

By following these tips, you can save money and manage your finances effectively while in university. Remember to keep track of your spending and always look for ways to reduce your expenses. With a little bit of planning and discipline, you can graduate without too much debt and a solid financial footing.