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Going to university? Nail your student finances
How much does it cost?
This year, we asked 2,964 students across 21 university cities to share how much they spend on essentials, their budgeting methods and how they manage their time between socialising and studying.
Find out the average cost of living for students
Student savings tips
- Always check if there's a student discount when shopping and travelling.
- Avoid impulse purchases. Try buying second-hand, thrifting and shopping during sales.
- Take advantage of free, campus-based activities. Social events at uni are a great alternative to an expensive night out.
- Use loan programs for expensive coursework and equipment. Borrowing books or renting equipment could save you lots.
Open a student bank account
Free 4 year tastecard. T&Cs apply
You can apply for up to £2,000 Interest-free arranged overdraft from year one (limited to £500 in your first term).
Up to £3,250 interest free from year three onwards.
Specific account eligibility criteria apply. Overdraft subject to eligibility 18+.
Explore your student loan options
Tuition fee and maintenance fee loans could financially support your studies.
Learn about the two eligible student loans available in the UK and the step-by-step process to apply.
Renters insurance could protect your gadgets
Tailored to students living in halls of residence and renters.
Explore renters insurnace. It could cover your cash, electronic goods or services are stolen or damaged by natural disasters.
Currently at uni? Our handy tools to help you budget and split the bills
How to split bills
Easily manage and split household expenses with your flatmates through the Housemate app. You don't need to bank with Royal Bank to use the app.
Take a look at Housemate - our bill splitting app*
Student budget calculator
Figuring out how much you have to spend, and what to spend your money on isn't easy. But, it’s an important part of student life. Our budget calculator can help you get started.
*Housemate is a free app open to users aged 17+ across the UK (excluding the Channel Islands and Northern Ireland). Users must have a UK bank account and an iOS or Android compatible device. Open Banking is available for selected UK banks and account types only. You need to be registered for your own bank’s online banking. The rent recognition feature is only open to those residing in England or Wales.
Congrats on your graduation! Top tips when looking at graduate jobs
What to do after university
With your last exams finished, here's how to best prepare yourself for the next steps of joining the workforce and feeling confident with managing your money.
Review your student finances
Rather than trying to figure this out yourself, you can book in a free Financial Health Check with one of our staff to give you ideas on how to make your money work harder and improve your spending habits.
Explore graduate jobs and schemes
Start preparing for job interviews and submitting applications for graduate jobs. Our CareerSense resource has all your questions and tips covered.
Graduate account
Your student account graduates with you
Your Graduate account is designed to support you in the transition between Student life and moving into full time employment. It comes with all the great features and benefits that allow you to stay in control of your money.
Change your current account
Graduate account not not right for you?
If you'd prefer one of our other accounts you can explore our Select account or choose a packaged account, which comes with additional benefits.
Must be 18+ UK resident to apply.
Specific account eligibility criteria may apply. Monthly fees may apply.
Check Your Credit Score For Free
Take time to understand your credit score after graduating
Our personalised tips could help you improve your credit score and kick-start a brighter financial future. The higher your score, the more likely you are to get better deals and interest rates.
Credit score available once opted in through the app, to customers aged 18+, with a UK address and data is provided by TransUnion. Mobile app available to customers with compatible iOS and Android devices and a UK or international mobile number in specific countries.