Make your money go further at university

Managing your money can be difficult, especially as a student, but there are a few easy ways you can make the most of your university experience without breaking the bank.

Here are our top tips for keeping to your budget and making your money go further at Norwich.

1. Create a Budget

The first step to being in control of your money is to create a budget. Take some time to sit down and calculate your monthly income, including any student loans, scholarships or part-time job earnings. Then, list all of your regular expenses, such as rent, utilities, groceries and transportation. Don’t forget to allow some weekly spending money for nights out and activities too. Allocate a specific amount to each category and try to stick to it as closely as possible. There are also many budgeting apps available that can help you track your spending and stay on target.

Our Student Support team can help with various aspects of managing your money, from budgeting to ensuring you receive your full student finance entitlement.

2. Working part-time

This isn’t an option for everyone, but if you have the time and flexibility consider finding a part-time job that can fit around your studies. Norwich is a student friendly city, and many businesses will hire students for flexible positions, such as retail, hospitality or tutoring. Securing part time work can be easier said than done, but the University’s employability team are always happy to help you with this. They can help you produce a CV, write a cover letter and even prepare for an interview. Working alongside your studies will also give you invaluable experience and new skills that can enhance your future career prospects.

3. Student Ambassadors

Once you’ve joined Norwich there’s always the option to apply to become one of our Student Ambassadors. Our Ambassadors work on everything from open days and campus tours to working on film projects and representing the University at festivals and events. All our ambassador roles are paid per hour worked and available on an ad hoc basis throughout the year.

4. Student discounts

As a student at Norwich you’re entitled to a variety of discounts across the city. Many shops and restaurants offer special deals for students, so be sure to take advantage of these savings whenever possible. Always carry your student ID card with you and ask about student discounts wherever you go.

One highlight to mention is The Feed, our campus cafe, which offers subsidised coffees, drinks and food during term time. The University shop also offers discounted materials and resources, and our Workshop Materials Hub makes available any materials left over from course workshops. Finally, the University library hosts a huge collection of films, games, books, exhibition catalogues (just to name a few!) available to borrow free of charge. You can even request new items that aren’t already in the collection.

5. Take advantage of free activities

Norwich is a vibrant city with plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy. Explore the city’s parks and green spaces, visit museums and art galleries, attend free events and exhibitions. Norwich Castle, for example, is free to enter for students year round. Also consider joining Norwich University of the Arts Students’ Union clubs and societies – there are loads of options from life drawing and tabletop gaming to yoga and badminton. Some clubs charge a small annual membership, but the vast majority of clubs are free to join.

6. Use public transport

Norwich is a relatively small city, which makes getting around a breeze. There is an excellent network of buses and trains, whether you’re just on your way to campus or heading to the coast for a day on the beach. Make sure to take advantage of any discounted student fares for public transport. Walking and cycling are also great ways of getting round the city whilst staying active and saving a bit of money. If you don’t have a bike Norwich is also served by Beryl, which allows you to hire a bike from almost anywhere in the city.