Studying in the UK can be expensive, but small changes in your daily routine make a big difference. Most students spend money on rent, food, transport, books, and social activities without realising how fast it adds up. The tips below focus only on practical ways to save, based on what international students talk about online and what actually works in the UK.
Choose a cheaper city
Rent is your biggest cost. London is the most expensive place to live. Cities like Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Manchester, Coventry, Cardiff, and Glasgow offer lower rent and cheaper travel. If you haven’t chosen a university yet, compare housing prices before applying.
Share accommodation instead of living alone
Shared flats reduce rent and bills. Students usually save £150–£300 per month by sharing. Look for options where bills are included, so you avoid surprises during winter when heating costs increase.
Cook most of your meals
Cooking is one of the simplest ways to save. Buying ingredients from supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, ASDA, and Tesco keeps your food budget low. Many students cook together with flatmates to split costs. Avoid eating out often; even cheap meals outside add up quickly.
Use discounts for transport
Transport in the UK can take a big part of your budget. Apply for:
- Student Oyster (London)
- 16–25 Railcard
- Local bus student passes
Walking and cycling also save money. Many students choose housing close to campus to reduce daily travel.
Buy second-hand
Students often overspend on new items. Use Facebook Marketplace, charity shops, and university groups for:
- Beds, desks, and chairs
- Kitchen tools
- Textbooks
You save money and avoid buying things you will only use for a short time.
Use student discount apps
Apps like UNiDAYS, Student Beans, and Totum offer discounts for food, clothing, software, and entertainment. These small discounts help when you use them consistently. Many shops also offer hidden student discounts if you ask.
Find part-time work early
Part-time jobs help with groceries, phone bills, and transport. Cafés, supermarkets, delivery roles, and on-campus jobs are common options. Start applying as soon as you arrive. Learning basic customer service phrases and preparing a simple CV helps you get hired faster.
Manage your mobile and internet costs
Mobile plans in the UK are cheap if you use the right provider. Lebara, Giffgaff, Voxi, and Smarty usually offer the best student prices. Avoid expensive contracts. A £10–£15 monthly plan is usually enough.
Create a weekly budget
Track your spending every week. Students who don’t track usually overspend without noticing. Use simple tools:
- Google Sheets
- Notion
- Free budgeting apps
Set a weekly spending limit for food, travel, and activities.
Avoid unnecessary subscriptions
Students often sign up for gym memberships, streaming platforms, or software they hardly use. Before subscribing, ask yourself if you need it for your studies. Universities often provide free software like Microsoft Office and library access.
Buy food in bulk and avoid waste
Bulk items like rice, pasta, oil, lentils, and chicken help you plan meals for longer periods. Freezing food prevents waste and saves you from buying extra meals when you are busy.
Attend university events
Many university events offer free food, snacks, and resources. Joining societies also helps you meet new people without spending money on expensive activities outside campus.
Use heating wisely
Heating can increase bills quickly. Wear layers, use blankets, and heat only the room you need. If your rent includes bills, this won’t apply, but always check your agreement.
If you want support with choosing the right UK university, planning your budget, or finding the most affordable study options, you can book a free consultation with BESA Group. You’ll get practical advice based on your background and goals, without any pressure or commitment.
