Plan Ahead
Top Tips for Successful Budgeting
- Track your income and expenses: Create a realistic budget that suits your lifestyle and study commitments.
- Know your reliable sources of income: This includes regular payments you can count on, such as a scholarship, loans, parents’ support, savings, etc.
- Be realistic about part-time work: Be mindful of how much part-time work you can manage, especially around exam periods. On-campus roles are available, such as UCD Ambassador, Global Guide, working with the Students’ Union or joining the UCD Campus Assistant Team. Explore opportunities at ucdsu.ie/jobs.
- Prepare for possible delays in funds: Some scholarships or loans may not release payments until the academic term has begun. Make sure you have funds available upfront for accommodation deposits, travel costs, course material and everyday expenses.
See UCD’s Money Management Website for additional resources to assist you with your budgeting.
You may also find the Prioritise Spending template useful to plan your spending.