If you’re studying in the UK, you might find some of the British costs of living eye-wateringly expensive. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With some careful choices and smart pre-planning, there are plenty of ways to save money while studying.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/scubasteveo/296747958/

Keep an eye out for discounts

As expensive as British life can be, all Brits love a good bargain, and there are tons of options for saving money on your regular shopping expenses and others. Most major supermarkets offer loyalty cards with which you can save up points that can be turned into cash, and these schemes usually include discount vouchers.

There are also plenty of websites that track discount codes and vouchers for everything from cinemas to mobile phones. And if you’re an NUS cardholder, you are entitled to 10% off at dozens of retailers.

Save on cheap international calls

If you’re away from home, you’re probably going to be calling long-distance frequently to keep up to date with family and friends. This is an area that has the potential to eat into your finances, but it doesn’t have to be like that. Respected companies such as www.vonage.co.uk offer a range of low-cost monthly packages that enable cheap calls to countries across the world.

If you want to make cheap calls to Pakistan or any other country, VoIP calling is a cheap way to do it. The service is simple to set up and includes free hardware and a number of inclusive features.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/comedynose/3224694069/

Learn to cook

After rent and bills, food is likely to be your biggest expense, and it only takes a couple of trips to a restaurant or takeaway house for it to start denting your bank balance in a big way.

Cooking for yourself is by far the cheapest way to eat, and it’s also likely to be the healthiest and most rewarding. Challenge yourself with new recipes and you may even find a hidden talent. Foods such as pasta, rice and couscous are extremely cheap to buy in bulk, and adaptable to countless meals.

Use price comparison websites

Price comparison websites now exist for just about anything you can think of – whether it’s gas bills, car insurance, mobile phone plans or even supermarket shopping, there’s a website for you. It’s always useful to shop around to get the best price, and comparison websites are an invaluable help. The best ones are continually updated for comprehensive and up-to-date information.

Drink before you leave the house – or not at all

Student life often features more partying than actual studying, and the temptation to spend all your money at pubs or clubs will always be there. Drinking in moderation is fine, but at nearly £4 a pint, the sensible thing to do is stock up on cheap booze before you sink your money into an expensive cocktail bar. Or if you’re feeling extremely sensible, avoid alcohol altogether – you’ll be amazed at how much you save.

—All content provided by Marina Manopella