MONEY MATTERS

It’s time to talk finance. Not the most exciting topic, we know, but it’s a necessary and important step in your lead up to starting university. If you haven’t already done so, you’ll need to apply for student finance as soon as possible. Where you live will determine where you need to apply for student finance and what support is available to you.

We’re here to help you through each step, just take a look at the finance pages on our website for more information.

chester.ac.uk/finance

If you’ve already applied but your choice of university or course has changed, you will need to update these details on your student finance account: gov.uk/student-finance

E: finance.tuitionfees@chester.ac.uk

Cost of Living – Student Support

The cost of living increase is impacting everyone and we know that some people are finding the balancing of finances difficult, but we’re here to help. At University Centre Birkenhead, we are determined to support our students, as studying is a valuable lifechanging experience. We’re also the 2nd in the UK for Cost of Living Support (Submissionbased Award) in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, so we know how to help!

We have a range of initiatives which support students whilst they are at the University of Chester. We can provide a Financial Assistance Fund to eligible students who are having financial difficulties. Student Services can also support students with the Your Money team and their Student Money Advisers who provides money related support to all our students during their time with us.

Whilst at the University Centre Birkenhead, you can take advantage of meal deals, food offers and warm spaces – we all know more than ever that every penny counts.

Right now is the time to start planning your finances for the year ahead and we’ve got a few tips and hints to help:

1. Budget - Once you know how much you’ll receive from Student Finance, and how much you’ll need to cover your rent. Get your free handy budget planner online.

2. Get cooking - Your diet has a direct effect on how healthy you feel, how well you’re able to focus on studying, and how much money you have in your bank account.

3. Get a student bank account - Banks offer lots of perks to students to get them to sign up, such as cash, railcards and an interest-free overdraft. Get into the habit of checking your bank statement regularly so you know exactly what you’re spending.

4. Make sure you’ve applied for student finance - The earlier you apply, the earlier you’ll have your funding confirmed, and you’ll know how much money you have to budget with when you start university.

For more information regarding cost of living as a student, check out: www1.chester.ac.uk/cost-of-living