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Student Budget Calculator

Last updated: April 2026

Monthly income

Monthly expenses

Monthly balance

£75

Income vs expenditure

Total income£1,350/month
Total expenses£1,275/month
Monthly balance£75
Over 10 months£750

Rent benchmark

52.6%

Recommended max: 40-50% of income.

Rent and bills are over 50% of income, which leaves very little room for food, travel, and emergencies.

Expense breakdown

Rent

£710

52.6%

Food

£230

17%

Transport

£90

6.7%

Study

£25

1.9%

Personal

£60

4.4%

Social

£160

11.9%

Top tips for student budgeting

  • Student bank accounts with 0% overdraft
  • TOTUM, UNiDAYS, and student discount cards
  • Student deals for Spotify, Amazon Prime, and Adobe
  • University food banks and hardship funds
  • Cook in bulk: £30/week is achievable with meal planning

Best student bank accounts 2026

Compare overdraft limits, railcards, freebies, and account conditions before choosing where your student finance is paid.

Compare student accounts ->

How far does the maintenance loan go?

For many students, the maintenance loan does not cover full living costs. Rent is usually the biggest pressure, especially in London and cities with limited student housing.

Student hardship funds

Universities have hardship funds for students facing financial stress. They are there to be used, and applying early is better than waiting until rent or bills are overdue.

Working while studying: what is allowed?

Home students can usually work without a formal hours cap, though study time matters. Student visa holders normally have work limits during term time, often 20 hours per week, so always check your visa conditions.

What does this mean?

This calculator is designed to help you understand the likely number before you make a decision or start an application.

Your result should be checked against official UK guidance, especially if your circumstances include dependants, exemptions, prior leave, or a complex immigration history.

Treat the figure as a planning tool rather than legal advice. Where the answer affects an application deadline or major payment, speak to an authorised adviser.

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