Accessibility Tools
Sign in
Click to Search Click to Search

Managing your finances as a student can be challenging, but it's a crucial skill that will benefit you throughout your life. This page is designed to help you navigate the world of money management with ease and confidence. Whether you're looking to save for a big purchase, understand how to budget your monthly expenses, or simply want to make smarter financial decisions, we've got you covered.

Here, you'll find practical tips, helpful tools, and real-life advice tailored specifically for students. From creating a budget that works for you to finding ways to save money on everyday expenses, our goal is to empower you to take control of your finances and build a secure financial future.

Stay Safe: How to Avoid Scams (especially with your student loans) 

With the the release of student loans, and in general, it's essential to stay vigilant and protect yourself from the growing threat of scams. During the BBC Scam Safe Week, held from November 23rd-30th, 2024, experts and resources were brought together to help individuals recognize and avoid scams. Here's a roundup of key points and advice from the week to help you stay safe. 

 

Understanding Common Scams 

Scams come in various forms, and knowing what to look out for can significantly reduce your risk: 

  • Phishing: Be wary of emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate sources but aim to steal your personal information. 

  • Smishing: Similar to phishing but conducted via text messages. Always be cautious of unsolicited texts. 

  • Vishing: Phone calls from scammers pretending to be from reputable organizations to extract personal details. Verify any unexpected calls before sharing information and remember – scammers can spoof phone numbers. 

 

How to Spot a Scam 

Identifying a scam can save you from falling victim. Here are some tell-tale signs: 

  • Check for Personalization: Authentic organizations usually address you by your full name, not just "Dear customer." 

  • Look for Poor Grammar and Spelling: Scammers often make errors in their messages. 

  • Beware of Urgency: Scammers create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly. Always take your time to verify the message. 

If you’re unsure – take your time and take steps to verify who you’re speaking with, such as putting down the phone and calling your bank directly. 

 

Preventive Measures 

Taking proactive steps can help protect your information: 

  • Verify Contacts: Always verify the sender's contact details through official channels before taking any action. 

  • Use Secure Websites: Ensure the website you're using is secure by looking for "https" and a padlock icon in the address bar. 

  • Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Accessing sensitive information over public networks can expose you to hackers. Use secure connections or a VPN whenever possible. 

 

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam 

If you suspect you've encountered a scam, act swiftly: 

  • Do Not Respond: Ignore suspicious messages and calls. 

  • Report It: Forward suspicious texts to 7726 or report to Action Fraud. 

  • Spread Awareness: Inform friends and family about potential scams to help protect them too. 

 

Resources and Tools 

  • A-Z Guide to Scams: A comprehensive guide and videos on avoiding different types of scams. 

Staying informed and vigilant is the key to protecting yourself from scams. Use these tips and resources to ensure you stay safe and secure, especially as the new semester begins and student loans are disbursed. 

 

Campus-based assistance 

There are also numerous teams on-campus that can help you with scams – or any financial related info. 

Student Support and Success – Can help with student queries and support students. 

  • StudentSupport@winchester.ac.uk  

  • 01962 82734 

Finance and Money Team – Can help give financial guidance and advice and aim to make finance issues as clear as possible. 

  • studentsandmoney@winchester.ac.uk 

  • 01962 827008 

The Students’ Union Advice Centre – Provides free, independent advice on a range of topics, including financial advice. 

 

Student Discounts

Toiletries

  • Boots/Superdrug - 10%
    • Using a Boots/Superdrug card
  • BodyShop - 20%
    • Through a Unidays code

Clothing and Footwear

  • Reebok - 35%
    • Through a Unidays code
  • Levis - 20%
    • Through a Unidays code
  • Quiz - 15%
    • Through a Unidays code
  • Topshop/Topman, Hollister, New Look, Calvin Klein - 10%
    • Through a Unidays code
  • Sports Direct, Nike, Footasylum, Schuh, Footlocker - 10%
    • Through a Unidays code

Online

You can also use Student Discounts online too! The main providers, Totum, Unidays, Student Beans etc… are easy to apply for and can provide you with an in-person or online Student Card to show in stores, or a code to use in a variety of online stores – they’re worth signing up for!

 

General Information

  • Remember - from Tuesday 1st April 2025 the annual cost of a standard colour TV Licence will increase to £174.50. Be sure to keep up to date!