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10 money tips for starting uni or college

With the cost of everything from a flat white to fruit and veg at an all-time high, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But there are things you can do to feel more in control of the situation. Here are 10 practical steps that can help.

Accommodation

First years often choose to live in their uni's halls of residence, but there are other options. Think about what's important for you, and read our advice on how to find the right accommodation.

Accommodation for disabled students

If you’re a disabled student or have different learning needs, and are thinking about your university accommodation options, there are a few things you’ll want to consider.

Additional funding

As well as a student loan, there’s other financial support available from a range of sources. Find out more about funding your undergraduate course.

Alternatives to higher education

If you're undecided about uni or your plans have changed, there are other options after secondary education, such as apprenticeships, gap years, overseas study, and more. This page explains university alternatives.

Applying for a digital and IT apprenticeship

Looking to start a career in the digital and IT sector? There's no better way to immerse yourself in the tech world than an apprenticeship, where you will get access to industry-standard tools, equipment and work on live projects on a daily basis. Take a look through our digital and IT apprenticeship application guide below, and find out the first steps of your journey into a future in the tech space.

Applying for a finance and accounting apprenticeship

Looking to start a career in finance and accounting? While academic routes are often the first thought when entering the field, there is no better way to gain hands-on experience in the sector than embarking on an apprenticeship and working while you learn. In the guide below, we'll help you on the first stage of your journey in applying for an apprenticeship, what to expect at the interview stage, and some advice and guidance from live employers in the space.

Applying for a healthcare apprenticeship

Are you interested in a career in healthcare? Whether you're looking at frontline dentistry, nursing, or a behind the scenes in the lab with science and medicine - an apprenticeship can help you get there, bringing practical experience together with academic qualifications, it could be the pathway for you.

Apprenticeships in Northern Ireland

There is a growing range of apprenticeships — giving you the opportunity to enter careers in industries such as computer science, engineering, construction, to retail and accountancy. Find out about exploring your options, and how to search and apply for an apprenticeship in Northern Ireland.

Apprenticeships in Scotland

There is a wide range of apprenticeships for hundreds of job roles in Scotland — giving you the opportunity to enter careers in anything from engineering and boat building, to veterinary nursing and accountancy.

Apprenticeships in Wales

There is a wide range of apprenticeships for over 1,500 job roles — giving you the opportunity to enter careers in anything from engineering and boat building, to veterinary nursing and accountancy. Find out about exploring your options, and how to search and apply for an apprenticeship in Wales.

Brand & Spend

Kicking off with a bang! The Brand & Spend chapter is always a big deal, diving into what really drives student decision making when it comes to parting with their cash. This year, there’s been a lot more movement than usual, and we’ve even seen some of the trends, if not quite bucked, bruised.

Changing or leaving your course

If you decide you no longer want to study, or you’d like to transfer to a new university or course, there’s a lot to consider.

Choosing a bank account

There are lots of different student accounts with different deals and benefits – make sure you look around to find the best one for you.

Choosing the right laptop for university

In 2023, 53% of students purchased a laptop specifically for university, but with so many different options out there it’s difficult to know how to pick the right one. We break down why choosing the right laptop is so important, what are the key things to look out for, and even some of our top recommendations.

Choosing the right UK course for you

There are hundreds of universities and colleges in the UK with different subject specialisms. Rather than choosing a famous university, see which one offers the best course for you.