Tips for surviving

Image: Bus and Big Ben Although it is useful to sort out your main funding as soon as possible and preferably before you begin university, when you do arrive there are still other forms of financial assistance available to you.

This assistance will depend on your circumstances and there may be ways to save further. For example, City halls of residence offer a 5 per cent discount if you pay the year's rent up-front and you can spread the cost over three terms.

Part-time jobs

Whilst you are studying you can gain valuable work experience by getting a part time job locally through our employment service or at the University itself. City's Centre for Career and Skills Development provides current students with the opportunity to earn money, while developing valuable transferable skills and gaining experience in today's job market.

Learn how to budget

You will need money throughout the whole year, not just for Freshers Week. There will be some expenses before you can pick up your student loan cheque too, and it's always useful to have some money for emergencies.

Choose a student bank account

Shop around for the best student bank account for you. Some will offer incentives such as a cash gift if you join them.

Get a part-time job

The staff at our Careers Centre (described as 'excellent' in the recent Guardian League tables) will do everything they can to help you prepare for the world of work.

And from the students themselves?

"Pick up the free TNT magazine, made for backpackers, which informs you of cheap entertainment, among other things." - Mike
"I live at home and cycle to City ? which I would recommend as an option to any potential students. There is a bike shed at college and several cycle routes which will get you there safely." - Rachel
"Be clever with your student loan; maybe plan an allocation for the year so you don?t end up without money! Take advantage of bank accounts especially targeted at students. They can offer many further discounts on travel, days out etc, and if you are really low on money, some overdraft rates (such as 0%) are ideal!" - Savraj
"Check the web for promotions. There are places around that will give student discount for people downloading vouchers off the net prior to visiting." - Einav
"Always keep your eyes open for posters around the uni. They usually advertise small jobs you can do as a one-off thing." - Lisa
"Do not bring any foreign currencies in cash, only GBP. Otherwise you will end up changing your money in Forex offices where exchange rates are not friendly and some where they charge commissions. Ideally bring all money on credit or debit cards. Avoid eating out too much. Selfcatering will help you keep your food expenses under control." - Igor
"Sign up for an NUS card as fast as possible. It gives you lots of offers on a wide range of stuff." - Ketil
"Buses are just as good as the tube. Buses are cheaper, just as frequent and during rush hour, probably just as fast as an overcrowded tube." - Phil
"Going clubbing in the week is much cheaper than going at the weekend. Taxis are also easier to get. Many clubs do cheap nights on certain week nights." - Liam
"Try to have breakfast in the morning and take a packed lunch to avoid spending a lot on meals." - Shazia
"Become a Student Ambassador. You need to have some special qualities like confidence and extrovert personality and the selection process is rigorous, but the rewards are good. As well as taking part in cool activities like the Lord Mayor's show you can also earn gift vouchers or cash." - Alison