Training or education
Whether you’re going off to university, looking to continue in full-time education, looking to take up a training course to build on your existing qualifications, or changing career altogether, don’t let the thought of fees put you off. There are grants and help available that will help fund your learning.
Top Tips
- It may be easier to go to a local café or shop everyday to get your lunch, but you can save those few pounds you spend on a meal by preparing a packed lunch the night before. A £3.50 meal deal every day builds up to £17.50 per week, that’s £70 per month! It’s cheaper to invest in lunch boxes and prepare a simple pasta salad or filled baguette the evening before or in the morning. If you simply can’t give up café lunches completely, treat yourself to a bought lunch once a week – you’ll appreciate it more.
- Whether you have a job or you’re looking for one, go to charity shops for your business wear. There’s no point is splurging £35 on a plain black skirt from a high street shop when you could get a skirt from a similar brand in a charity shop for a fraction of the price. Try shops you wouldn’t normally shop in too – you may not want jeans from a supermarket, but a suit from there may look just as good as a high street branded one.
- Make full use of student discounts. Most shops and cinemas give a discount if you can show a valid student card, whilst anyone aged 16-25 is eligible for a young persons rail card which gives you up to a third off on train travel.
- Get a student bank account. Most banks offer new students a 0% overdraft and other benefits to help them through university. If possible, set up text alerts for your bank account. It’s a great way of keeping track of how much you’re spending.
- Check out what financial support you are entitled to. Everyone attending university is entitled to a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan from their Local Education Authority, whilst those who need some extra help can apply for an additional grant. Most universities also offer bursaries to students who need a helping hand so check what’s on offer before you arrive.
- At the end of each term, take the time to look over your finances. Where are you overspending? Can you change to a better phone tariff?
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