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Why Budgeting Before Term Starts is the Smartest Student Move You’ll Make

Starting university? Before you worry about timetables or textbooks, take an hour to create a budget. It might not sound exciting, but it’s your secret weapon for a smoother, less stressful term.

Plan Ahead

The first few weeks of uni are full of spending temptations—nights out, freshers’ fairs, takeaways. Without a plan, your loan could disappear before lectures even begin. Budgeting early helps you:

• Avoid mid-term money panics
• Spend confidently and independently
• Say yes to what matters (and no to what doesn’t)

Think of it as financial freedom—not restriction.

What to Include in Your Budget

Your budget doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should cover:

• Income: Student loans, part-time work, family support, bursaries
• Fixed Costs: Rent, bills, tuition, travel
• Flexible Costs: Food, textbooks, nights out, personal care
• Hidden Extras: Subscriptions, society fees, emergency expenses

Use a weekly or monthly plan and be honest about your lifestyle.

Budgeting Tools That Help

Skip the spreadsheets if that’s not your thing—these tools make it easy:

• Apps: Mint, Monzo, YNAB, Emma
• Bank tools: Most student accounts include spending trackers
• Uni resources: Talk to your student money advisor—they’re there to help

Keep It Going All Term

Budgets only work if you check in with them:

• Review spending weekly (just 10 minutes!)
• Adjust if your income or expenses change
• Save a small emergency buffer—even £50 can make a difference

Real Student Voices

“I didn’t budget in first year and ended up living off toast by December.”
— James, 3rd-year Biology student

“A budgeting app helped me cut back without missing out.”
— Leila, 2nd-year Psychology student

Your 60-Minute Challenge

Before term begins, take one hour to list:

1. What money you have coming in
2. What you’ll need to spend
3. What you’d like to save or use for fun

It’s one small task that sets you up for a less stressful, more confident term. Future you will thank you.

Further information: https://www.blackbullion.com/unibattle

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