Learn how to avoid student debt to leave you with the money to spend on fun things.

Last week, we looked at ways to save big money while studying at university, including making the most of grants, reclaiming income tax, and avoiding council tax.

How else can students make their money go that bit further, and avoid graduating with massive debt?

Access/Hardship funds

Potential saving : £100-£500

Most universities have access funds, or hardship funds. Check out your university website or intranet for details. Funds from these tend to be allocated each term, and run out fairly quickly, so apply at the start of the term. They might be available as loans or grants. If it’s a loan, be realistic about your ability to repay.

Railcard Savings

Potential Saving: £120 – £600

Ahhh…. the 18-25 railcard, with it’s whopping 1/3 discount on rail fares. One trick is to renew your railcard just before your 25th birthday, then you’ll get a discount. It works the same if you’re over 26 and have a student railcard – renew just before you finish your course for an extra year.

Avoid the TV License Fee

Potential Saving: Up to £148 per year
In last week’s article, we showed you how to get a discount on your TV license. But you might not need a license at all. The rule is that you need a license if you have TV receiving equipment, or you use a tablet or other device to watch TV as it is being broadcast. So, if you stick to watching programmes on catch-up services like iPlayer, or via legal downloads, you won’t need a license.

Absorb Culture, Cheaper

Potential Saving: Up to £12 per gallery visit.
If you’re under 26, the The National Art Pass gives you free access to over 200 museums, galleries, and historic houses for just £21.75 a year. You’ll also get 50% off the entry fee to most major exhibitions. Mature student culture buffs may also consider the standard pass a good deal, at £42.75 a year.

Grab loads of freebies!

Potential Saving: Up to £20 per freebie
As a student there’s always a company somewhere giving away something for free from pens to pizzas – take them! Even if you don’t need them right then, they may come in useful sooner than you think. And never say no to a free meal!