Whether we have little or much, it is important that we learn to control our expenses and save money while studying. We tell you 7 tricks to achieve it. Independence simulation
The university period is, for all those people who have left the family home to study, the first moment in life when we have some financial autonomy and the opportunity to learn to manage our own money. And we are not only talking about the money we use for our enjoyment, but also the money destined to pay for rent, utilities, food... Although it is common to have a monthly allowance from our parents so that we can focus on getting our
eTítulo and, therefore, we are not independent in the real sense of the word, we are obliged to wisely manage that money if we want it to last until the end of the month and avoid accumulating debts. Let's see 7 tips to control our expenses during this period:
1. Create a budget
The best way to control our expenses is to have a realistic budget that helps us see clearly and from the first day how much money we have for each expense. First, we must make a list of all our monthly income and expenses, including variable expenses such as food and entertainment. This will not only allow us to have a realistic view of how much money we can spend, but it will also help us identify areas where we can reduce expenses and start saving to have a small "cushion" that allows us to be covered in case of unforeseen events or use it later for something we like.
2. Discounts and student aid are there to be used
Many companies offer discounts for students, from reduced fares on public transportation to discounts at stores and restaurants. There are also state aid, scholarships, awards... any advantage that we can take advantage of should be considered because it will help us reduce our expenses and save money.
3. Used books work just as well
University textbooks can be really expensive and not everyone wants to keep them once they finish studying, so if we want to have them, a good idea to save money is to buy them second hand. When we don't want to keep the textbooks at all, another way to save is to use the university or public library, where, if they don't have a copy, we can order it. There are also many university bookstores that have book rental programs. Any of these options will allow us to reduce our expenses on materials and save money.
4. Save money by cooking at home
Cooking at home is an economical and healthy way to eat. It is true that going out with our friends for tapas or eating out is great, but it will increase our monthly entertainment budget by a lot. The alternative of
preparing our own meals and taking them in a lunchbox is a better option: we can eat healthier, save money and still enjoy the company of our friends, as we can eat in a park or on campus. University canteens are also very economical, as they provide several menu options, or we can talk to our classmates to cook as a group and reduce expenses.
5. Use a bike or walk
If we live near the university and our city does not have free public transportation for students, a good option to save money is to walk
or bike. This way, we will not only reduce our transportation expenses, but also stay fit.
6. Look for part-time jobs
If we have some free time, a good idea is to look for part-time jobs and have some additional income. Many universities have work programs for students in areas such as the library or cafeteria, and there are surely businesses in the area that are happy to hire responsible young people.
7. Setting goals helps save money
Defining our long-term savings goals and establishing a plan to achieve them will help us be consistent and not fall into unnecessary expenses. When we focus on visualizing goals as juicy as saving for a graduation trip, buying a car that allows us to move independently, or studying a master's degree that interests us, not buying that shirt we like or not always eating out becomes easier. It is also advisable to regularly track our savings and, if necessary, make adjustments to our budget.
