Whether it’s your first Freshers’ Week or your third, you’ll know soon enough that the temptation to spend is everywhere. Fast food just outside the gates, a drink or two at Campus Fest, the enticing smell of new books – you get the idea. The problem is that you’ll need some cash left at the end of term if you’re planning to join your friends on that dream trip.

Where to start? APS has got you covered with money saving tips for old and new students alike.

Budget from the very first week of term

With your summer job wage freshly deposited into your APS student account and your stipend arriving soon, you’re going to be itching to spend. Beware – the first few weeks are the craziest. Fancy new stationery, shiny laptops and delicious food are lurking at every corner. It’s hard to budget when you’re keen to have fun, but it’s worth holding off on spending ­everything so soon. You’ll thank yourself later on in the year when those past paper orders add up.

Plan meals in advance

Walking back from a lecture, you’ll want to pick up lunch and have a coffee with friends. Pay attention – if you let this become a habit it will drain your finances in a matter of weeks. Preparing food at home is a great way to save money, and there’s no need to cut back on ingredients you love if you budget correctly.

Sell, sell, sell

No need to panic when you receive the bill for your book list. Those books will still be valuable a couple of years from now. Once you’re sure that you’ll never use a textbook again during your course, head to Maltese Facebook groups that promote second-hand books or keep an eye out for the annual book sales on campus to get some of that money back. And while you’re there, keep an eye out for any second-hand books you’ll need next term.

Avoid expenses on your night out

You’re heading to the bus terminus after another night of clubbing. It’s time for something greasy, and that slice of pizza outside the club is looking really good.

Adding fast food and drinks to every night out is going to take its toll and not only on your waistline. Do indulge from time to time, but if you’re serious about saving money (and fitting into your skinny jeans) wait until you get home to a bowl of cereal or slice of toast.

Get paid to do stuff

Isn’t that called getting a job? Well, yes. But not every university course gives you enough spare time to have a part-time job on the side. If you’re keen on focusing on your studies, you can still keep an eye out for moneymaking opportunities that might crop up. You could take part in paid surveys or focus groups organised by university faculties, or if you’re a bit of a grammar lover, you could offer proofreading services for dissertations. Just pin a poster to the notice board and you’re good to go.

Visit http://student.apsbank.com.mt for more great ideas on how to get through student life glitch-free.

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