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Many students at Exeter feel that January can be one of the most financially stressful months of the year. The festive period often leaves bank balances looking uncomfortable, while rent, bills, and day-to-day costs continue as normal. Combined with cold weather and academic pressure, January money stress is a familiar experience, but it is also manageable with the right approach.
The first step is confronting your finances head-on. While it’s tempting to avoid checking your bank balance (an experience we’ve all done before), understanding exactly what you have left is essential. Take time at the start of the New Year to review your income, fixed outgoings (such as rent and bills), and spending. Planning ahead, even loosely, can help you spread your remaining funds across the term and avoid running out unexpectedly. Budgeting apps or simple spreadsheets can make this process clearer and less overwhelming.
Cheap socialising and food are key to staying on budget without sacrificing student life. Exeter offers plenty of low-cost options if you know where to look(Insert links to budget blogs). Taking advantage of student discounts in town, and prioritising society events can keep social costs down. When it comes to food, planning meals and shopping at budget supermarkets such as Aldi or Lidl can make a noticeable difference. Batch cooking is particularly useful during busy weeks, reducing both spending and stress. Setting a realistic weekly allowance for food and socialising can help you stay in control while still enjoying yourself.
Another way to ease financial pressure is by finding opportunities to earn extra money. Many Exeter students take on part-time work, whether through the University, local cafés and shops, or flexible roles such as tutoring, freelancing, or online work. If you’re looking for part-time work, visit Handshake or Indeed to find any jobs vacancies across the Exeter area. Even a small, regular income can help cover essentials or create a financial buffer for the rest of the term.
Importantly, you do not have to manage January money stress alone. The Students’ Guild at Exeter offers a range of support services, including financial advice, welfare support, and guidance on accessing hardship funds. If you are struggling, reaching out early can make a significant difference. The Guild’s Advice Service can help you explore your options and provide reassurance during what can be a challenging time.
Budgeting in the New Year is not about cutting out everything you enjoy - it is about making informed choices. By checking your balance, planning ahead, finding affordable ways to socialise and eat, and seeking support when needed, January and the rest of the term can become far more manageable. With a clear financial plan in place, you can focus on your studies, your wellbeing, and making the most of life at Exeter as the new term unfolds.