Safe Spending

Safe Spending

• It’s easy to spend money quickly at the beginning of the year when you have more at your disposal.
• Use safe platforms and apps to manage your finances. Make a list of essentials, comforts, and extras. Prioritize paying for essentials like bills and groceries first.
• When buying extras like coats or jackets, choose darker shades and good-quality brands, as these will last longer and be worn throughout the year. Poor-quality items may wear out quickly.
• Spend as little as possible on clothing by selecting plain, neutral colors that you can mix and match. Take advantage of student discounts, which are available at most apparel outlets throughout the year.
• For toiletries and home or kitchen supplies, Poundland is a great option. You can also visit local markets for fruits and vegetables, as prices are often negotiable, helping you save. As a student, take advantage of Wednesday socials to save money on clubbing.
• If you commute to university by train, consider getting a rail card to save on tickets. If you travel by bus, opt for a day saver or monthly saver ticket depending on how often you commute.
• Lastly, manage your monthly budget by maintaining a spreadsheet, or a note, or checklist on your mobile phone.

Bringing Cash

We strongly advise against bringing large amounts of cash and recommend that you bring most of your money in Traveller's Cheques or use a Traveller's Cheque card. Keep your Traveller's Cheques separate from your passport. To avoid carrying large sums of cash for your tuition fees, you can pay your fees in advance via bank transfer. Alternatively, you can bring a cheque or banker’s draft payable to the institution.

In cash, you should carry enough money to cover:

• Transport from the airport to your final destination
• One or two nights' stay in 'bed and breakfast' accommodation (in case you cannot immediately access your booked accommodation)
• Food
• Telephone calls home
• Any other expenses for the first week (bus fares, stationery, social events, etc.)

£400–450 should be enough in most parts of the UK, with slightly more required in London.

Currency Limits

Suppose you are bringing money worth 10,000 Euros or more (including money in other currencies) and are coming to the UK from a country outside the European Union. In that case, you must declare this sum to customs officers by filling out a form upon arrival.

Additionally, check whether your home country has any restrictions on the cash that can be taken out or the amounts that can be transferred to the UK.