Money saving tips

Make the most of your money with these money saving tips and advice from some of our students.

Food

Find the different loyalty schemes available at different supermarkets and compare supermarket prices.
Use a Community fridge, a space where anyone can share food to combat food waste, either by bringing food to leave in the fridge or by taking food from the fridge to use themselves. We have some in residences and at the Student’s Union.
The University’s cafes and bars use the GeniUS reward scheme; sign up and keep your eye out for offers and discounts.

“There are various food sharing apps which alert you to reduced food in supermarkets near you. As well as saving money, this also helps to reduce food waste.”
“Make a packed lunch - you can save lots of money by bringing your own lunch to uni with you.”
“Cooking extra food for dinner the night before and having the leftovers for lunch the next morning is an easy way to save money.”
“Make a meal plan for the week before you go shopping so that you know exactly what you need.”
“Look for reduced items and then freeze them.”
“Don’t go shopping when you are hungry!”

Be efficient with your electricity - this one is good for the environment and can help you save money on your bills. Turn the lights off when you're not in the room, switch off electrical equipment such as TVs and computers when not in use, only boil the amount of water you need in the kettle, and don't leave the tap running while you brush your teeth.
Check information about our facilities on campus to know where you can access warm spaces, hot showers and device charging stations.
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Small changes can make big differences. Use the to consider the impact of small spending and work out how much you could save per year.
Buy second-hand where you can; it’s better for the environment too. where you can refresh your wardrobe at no extra cost.
If you have worries about affording formal clothing for upcoming job interviews, assessment centres, or a new job, you could get a free referral to The Suit Works, a Sheffield not-for-profit organisation that offers free outfits from their huge range of pre-loved formal wear, with clothes for all shapes, sizes, and tastes. Just drop into the Employability and Placements Hub in the Students’ Union, where staff will help you with the referral.
Value or own-brand products, for cleaning products or toiletries, for example, are often half the price of other products and do the same job. Discount shops are a good place to pick up branded goods for a fraction of the price.

“Always ask if shops, restaurants, hairdressers etc offer a student discount. Many local shops and big chains will offer student discounts, even if they don't advertise it.”
“Student discount sites like , and contain deals and discounts.”
"If you need furniture for your house, or any other items you'd be happy to use second-hand, look on websites such as Sheffield Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace. It's also worth checking the charity shops near the University or where you live."
“Don’t buy on impulse. Wait two weeks and if you still want it, then get it.”

Railcards are available to help you save on train fares. Mature students can also apply by completing a Mature Student Application Form.

Regularly revisit your budget. You can use our Money Planner and refer to our money tools guidance on how to undertake a financial health check.
Watch out for scams. It’s important that you know how to spot the signs of a scam and the most effective methods to protect yourself and your money.
If you are a new UK student and haven’t already opened a student bank account, consider doing so - some student bank accounts include attractive benefits, like a free railcard. Sites like, and have useful web pages to help you compare the accounts that are available.
to ensure that you aren't left out of pocket if your belongings are stolen, lost or damaged - there may be an upfront cost but purchasing insurance can save you a lot of stress and money later.

“Stock up on reusable products, like a coffee cup and a water bottle, to ensure you don’t have to pay for containers.”
“The Showroom Cinema and Sheffield Theatres in town also offer discounted tickets to students and young people.”
“G�� or dental treatment.”
“Sell unwanted items.”
“You can usually get cheap, or sometimes free, haircuts by offering to act as a model for trainee hairdressers. Some hairdressers also offer student discounts, so remember to check!”
“Decide on a limit that you want to spend on your night out and try not to go over it. Some banks allow you to make ‘pots’ so you can separate your budget from your main balance, which can help make sure you stick to your budget for that night.”
“Try to save 10 per cent of your regular income so you have money for an emergency.”