When you decided to move away from home for the first time to begin your university studies, there would have understandably been a lot of things going through your mind. How where you going to budget, how expensive will food and bills be, will you be able to still go out and have fun, what about tuition fees and stationary?

There is a lot more to moving away to other than getting that sought after degree. Money issues are a common problem for students, as you have to very quickly become very self dependent. If you have not managed money yourself before you may find that you are struggling to find a balance to allow yourself enough to live on and enough to allow yourself some me time.

There are several ways that you can help the money ease into the required fields, some more obvious than others. Some prime examples of how to save more right away are to live in university based accommodation rather than rent. It is often much cheaper and you will not have to spend money to travel into classes every day. Another budget saver is to buy books and study guides second hand. Many students will have finished the course you are starting, and be keen to get their used up bits and pieces off their hands and make a bit of cash. Take advantage of this and buy what you need as you need it rather than spend a fortune in one blow on things you wont use for six months.

If you are living with friends, organise shopping in bulk for suitable items. It may be sensible for one member to sign up to a wholesale store that everybody can contribute to for the membership. This will allow you to buy essentials such as toilet paper, shampoo, tinned foods and similar house hold goods in large, cheaper, quantities.

If you are used to "top notch" products from home, do not be afraid to try the cheaper alternatives available in the stores, which are usually almost exactly the same. Be sure that you take advantage of any student discounts that are available all over the market now on anything from food to video games. Socialising in the cinema and bowling alleys etc can be great if you find out which ones will give you a student discount.

It is highly advisable that you get a part time job, if it is suitable and not going to affect your studies too much. This will allow you a much more enjoyable time, as you won't need to pay back any large debts until you are earning a high paid job, so the money you make from part time can go towards fun and luxuries.

Lastly, if you do find yourself struggling, speak to a student advisor at your university as soon as possible, there will be ways to help you but you must make people aware as soon as possible.