Starting uni is exciting, but let’s be honest, money stress hits everyone at some point. Between rent, art supplies, food and travel, your loan can vanish quicker than expected. Here’s how students at AUB make it work without missing out.

Make a Weekly Plan

You don’t need a complicated spreadsheet. Just list your essentials

• rent,
• bills,
• travel, and
• food

…then see what’s left for fun stuff. Some of us find it easier to have two bank accounts: one for bills, one for spending.

Eat Smart on Campus

AUB has some seriously decent affordable options:

Reusable Cup Scheme – save 30p every time you bring your own.

The Savour Range – a hot meal every weekday for £3.95 in The Refectory.

Community Island – leftover food from The Refectory that’s free to collect at the end of the day.

Free Fruit Fridays – grab a piece on your way to class.

The Shop – £3.75 meal deal for sandwiches, snacks and drinks.

Get Creative with Savings

Batch cooking, meal-planning and using your student discounts make a huge difference. Check out the AUBSU Cookbook by student Bee Taylor for tasty, affordable recipes, you can find it here on Issuu.

Use Student Discounts as Standard

Apps like UNiDAYS and TOTUM give instant discounts at shops, restaurants and online. Always ask if a student discount is available, you’d be surprised how many places offer one without advertising it.

Support When You Need It

If things get really tough, AUB offers a BA Hardship Fund for unexpected financial struggles — apply through myAUB > eVision > Search and Apply for Funding.

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Where to Get Help

• AUB Cost of Living Support
• AUBSU Cookbook
• BCP Council Cost of Living Hub
• Citizens Advice BCP