Wavelength
Four students sitting together on the lawn at their University Campus, looking at a tablet screen studying

Now that uni is in full-swing here are some tips and insights to help you save money at uni.

Recycle textbooks: Do not buy brand new textbooks. Instead, use websites like StudentVIP to find second hand textbooks from students at your university or elsewhere in Australia. If the versions don’t match up, contact your unit coordinator and they’ll let you know if it’s necessary to have the latest edition of the textbook or not.

Make use of your tech: It may seem sophisticated to print out all your lecture slides and bring them to class, but think about how much you’re wasting in the long run. Make use of your laptop or tablet if you have one and take notes on those devices. After all, it’s more likely faster to type than write.

Student concessions/deals: From movie tickets to plane tickets, student deals are everywhere, you just have to actively search for them. You’d be surprised how many are available if you just look out for them. Finding student deals will become your newest hobby.

Apply for youth allowance: Once you’re 18 or over you may be eligible for some form of Centrelink benefits, depending on your financial situation. Youth Allowance may be something to consider if you are struggling financially and need a little assistance.

Know your discount stores: Stores like eBay, Amazon and Gumtree are like your new best friends during uni. You’ll be able to find anything and everything at a discount without having to leave your house. Online shopping comes with a lot of perks, giving you items on a budget at the same quality you get in store. Making use of these sites is a smart idea.

Meal prep: Eating out daily may be nice for your taste buds but not for your wallet. If you’re serious about cutting down on your spending, then think about meal prepping. Shopping and cooking in bulk can cut your spending in half if you do it the right way. Cook for the week, freeze your meals and you’ve got your lunch packed every day before you walk out the door. After all, uni restaurants are overpriced anyway.

Find cheaper alternatives: The difference between buying branded items and cheaper brands is big in price but little in taste. For a week, sub out your favourite coffee, snack and general toiletry brands for cheaper alternatives and see if you can spot a difference. Usually, you can’t (unless you’re super picky) and the benefits are a whole lot of savings on your shopping trip.

Avoid using your card: Decide on and set a budget for the week and withdraw exactly that amount. If you stick to using cash, you’ll realise how much you’re spending daily and if there are any spots in your spending regime that you can cut down on.

Get involved in tutoring: To earn a little extra on the side, find out if your university does paid tutoring. Otherwise you can run independent tutoring classes as well. If you excel at a certain subject, use this skill to your advantage and earn a little cash by teaching other students.

Part-time jobs/internships: Similarly, scope out places offering work experience opportunities or casual jobs. Many organisations love taking in uni students and are sometimes willing to pay for it. Keeping your eyes peeled for opportunities to get your foot in the door will not only help your resume but your bank account too.

Apply for scholarships: Many people shy away from scholarships and grants thinking that it’s only for certain types of people. There is a range of different scholarships available and all it takes is a little research to see if you are eligible for any. Just apply and see where it goes, you never know, you may be just the right candidate they were looking for. Scholarships not only provide you with financial help but possibly also job or work experience opportunities down the track.

Important information

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