Student advice

NSMW – What are the true costs of renting?

by Victoria Bull
February 5, 2018May 31, 2022

National Student Money Week starts today at the University of Northampton!

This year, our campaign ‘Where I live’ is focussing on housing, including the typical costs of renting and what to think about when looking for a new house for next year.

If you’re in your first year and currently living in Halls, you’ll probably need to move out at the end of the academic year. Similarly, some landlords like to change their student tenants each year, so even if you love your house share now, check with your landlord sooner rather than later so you know if you need to start looking.

Assuming you need or want to move, here are some helpful pointers and tips to consider before diving in to your next commitment.Read More »NSMW – What are the true costs of renting?

Money at the beginning of term – FAQs

by Victoria Bull
September 19, 2017May 31, 2022

At the start of term, we receive many queries relating to student finance and funding, including what to do about late loans or when Halls rent is due. Here is a list of the most typical questions – with answers – to help you while you study with us.

How to spend a student loan (part 1)

by Victoria Bull
August 11, 2017May 31, 2022

After you’ve applied for your funding, you can now think about how you’ll spend your money when you get to university. Whether it’s the first time you’ve had to manage your finances or you’re swapping a salary for a student loan, if you start to look at and prepare for potential costs early, it will be easier to create a budget – allowing more time and energy to enjoy your new life at university.

Prospective students – How can I fund my course?

by Victoria Bull
April 26, 2017May 31, 2022

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If you’re thinking of starting a university course in September, now’s the time to start looking into and applying for your funding: as well as tuition fees, you will also need money for your general living and course costs e.g. food, travel, books, socialising, etc.

Money dangers – The lure of contactless

by Victoria Bull
March 29, 2017May 31, 2022

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Paying using a contactless card is so easy: as no PIN is needed, you just waive or tap your card or your phone when you get to the check-out and you’re done. If you regularly pay this way, you are not alone – it is reported that one-in-five card payments are now contactless. Shops, pubs and cafes love this as it speeds up the queues. So why can this be considered as a ‘money danger’?Read More »Money dangers – The lure of contactless

Stressed about money. . ?

by Victoria Bull
March 1, 2017May 31, 2022

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Money may not buy happiness – as the old saying goes – but it can have a huge impact on your wellbeing. So if you are having financial problems, this can have a negative effect on all aspects of your life and study, including your health.

Money Week – Mend your spending habits!

by Victoria Bull
February 1, 2017May 31, 2022

It can be so tempting to fritter away money on things you don’t need. If you’re having a bad day or stressful week, splashing out on a new top or a takeaway pizza can feel like the best way of taking the edge off, but you might not thank yourself the next time you check your bank balance. While you should allow yourself some room for treats in your budget, clothes and food are areas where students often overspend; so stop feeling guilty and take steps to mend these habits.

How to stretch your loan in the new year

by Victoria Bull
January 9, 2017May 31, 2022

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Welcome back – we hope you had a fun and relaxing Christmas break! It’s the start of a new term and a new year. Your next loan payment is due to be made today, which is enough to make anyone happy about coming back to university! But whether you mastered your money like a pro last term or let spending get the better of you, it’s not too late to make a fresh start with a brand new budget.

Savvy shopping

by Emily Shears
November 3, 2016May 31, 2022

Offers are everywhere. Money off, multi-buy deals, discount cards – they are shouting from the shelves in supermarkets and shops all the time. But are they always a good option for saving money? These offers can tempt you into buying things you don’t really want. Here are our tips on finding your way through to the real bargains.

Cooking vs Takeaway

by Emily Shears
October 13, 2016May 31, 2022

The lure of a takeaway is a difficult thing to resist. If you’ve had a hard day or are just feeling a bit lazy, it can be all too easy to give in to temptation – especially with apps like JustEat at your fingertips.