Here’s how to save money as a student with our money saving tactics to keep hold of your cash.

Get a cash ISA

A cash ISA is the quickest way to start saving money with the best rates. You can save up to £15,240 (from April 2015) each year, completely tax free.

Make the most of your savings by always being on the lookout for a better deal: Every year you should look around to see which banks are offering the best interest rates and move to them. Beware of big bonus rates that may be significantly reduced after a year or even less.

Instant savings account

An instant savings account is another good thing to have although is really only going to be useful if you’ve reached your ISA limit. You will have to pay tax on any interest earned.

Compare EVERYTHING

Do your research and GoCompare: From car insurance to your gas bill, make sure you’re not paying more than you have to. But don’t forget that comparison sites don’t always include all providers, so go direct and get quotes from them as well before making a decision.

Cashback

Use cashback websites such as QuidCo to get money back when you buy online, from insurance to food. It’ll essentially mean everything you buy is on sale!

Pay off debts

Before you start stashing money away, be sure to pay off any debts (excluding your Student Loan, for now) you owe, especially those collecting high interest such as credit and store cards.

Cook for yourself

Learn how to cook with easy recipes for students that ANYONE can make. It’s so much cheaper cooking from scratch, as well as being healthier and tastier!

Hide money

Hide and even lock extra cash away, e.g. in a safe so that you simply can’t spend it. It’s not a long-term strategy and you’ll miss out on interest, but it’s a good way to save up for things like a Holiday or Christmas.

Get a piggy bank for loose change

Keep all of your loose change as it can soon add up! You can convert it to cash for free at your bank, or use a Coinstar machine, but note that these will charge a fee.