Your cost of living
Whether you’re studying at your local university or moving away from home, you need to start thinking about the cost of university and budgeting. Here are some of the areas to help you plan your student costs.

Accommodation
On-campus accommodation ranges from £85 – £155 a week here at Teesside University, depending on your hall or room type.

Bills
If you’re living in Uni accommodation, we’ve got this covered for you. If you’re not living on campus, you need to consider the cost of water, electricity, gas and internet.

Food
You’ll find a range of local supermarkets, farmers markets and independent shops. Preparing fresh meals at home rather than buying prepared or takeaway food will save you money. Don’t forget to budget for cleaning products and toiletries as well.

Leisure
Middlesbrough is more affordable than many towns and cities. Look online for prices to budget for an evening out with friends. And you can find free events, galleries and museums in Middlesbrough to keep you entertained.

Transport
Student Universe gives student friendly prices on airfares, hotels, attractions and more. A 16-25 rail card gives you a third off rail tickets.

Health & fitness
Our University gym membership is £40 for each semester and includes fitness classes such as Pilates, yoga, Zumba and Metafit. You can also get free sports massages, injury assessment, treatment and rehabilitation. There’s also the free Saturday morning parkrun at nearby Albert Park.

Books & stationery
The Students’ Union shop on campus sells affordable stationery. And don’t forget to use your Teesside Advance £300 credit for books and learning resources (check you’re eligible here).

Student discount
As a student, you can buy a TOTUM card for exclusive deals on food and fashion, tech and travel, and everything in between. Check out other student perk websites too such as Student Beans and UNiDAYS.

Having fun!
Your first year at uni is likely to involve a good amount of socialising, so work out how much you have available to spend on an average night out. You’ll get some student deals but think realistically about how often you can afford to go out.

Jobs
You might consider working during your studies but do check first as not all courses allow you to take up a part-time job. You might find a role on campus, such as at the Students’ Union or you can apply to join a Student Ambassador scheme.

Extras
There will always be some costs that you can’t plan for, so try and keep a little bit aside for emergencies.