As the fall semester approaches, students face the challenge of balancing studies, social events, and expenses. A survey reveals that over half of students were unprepared for the costs of living independently, with food and unexpected purchases being the main culprits. Financial expert Stefan Westerberg advises students to monitor their expenses weekly and consider part-time work or choosing a city with lower housing costs. Discover 10 practical tips to make your student budget work, from working extra hours to utilizing student discounts.
10 Essential Tips to Manage Your Student Budget This Fall
10 Essential Tips to Manage Your Student Budget This Fall
10 smart tips to make your student budget work this fall – save money, utilize housing benefits, and afford food and student life.
The fall semester is about to begin, and for many university and college students, it means three things: studying, fun student events, and expenses.
More than half of all students (52 percent) were unprepared for how expensive it would be to move out, according to a survey by Verian commissioned by Länsförsäkringar. The unexpected costs were mainly food (17 percent) and unplanned purchases like light bulbs and kitchen utensils (12 percent).
How can you easily keep track of your expenses?
– Most banks have good services on their websites. You can check your expenses monthly on your phone or computer, says Stefan Westerberg, a private economist at Länsförsäkringar.
– It's important to check your finances more frequently. Instead of monthly, check weekly to prevent things from going in the wrong direction, he continues.
In 2025, the study grant and loan were increased to a total of 13,500 SEK per month. Despite this, it's tough to make ends meet as a student, says Stefan Westerberg. The best way to avoid living too frugally is to work part-time or choose a student city with lower housing prices.
10 Tips – How to Make Your Student Budget Work
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Work extra – but not too much.
The income limit for the fall semester 2025 is 125,296 SEK, based on full-time studies over 18 weeks. This means you can earn 20,880 SEK per month. If you earn more, your study aid will be reduced. Remember, the salary is counted on the date it's paid, not when you worked.
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Buy used textbooks – or borrow.
Check buy-and-sell groups, ask senior students, or see if the library has the book. Co-buying or sharing can also work.
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Build a buffer for unexpected expenses.
A broken bike, emergency dental care, or a delayed rent invoice can hit hard. By saving a little each month, you're better prepared if something happens.
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Are you under 29? Apply for housing allowance.
If you're under 29, you may be eligible for housing allowance through Försäkringskassan. Calculate and apply at Försäkringskassan. Keep track of how much you can earn if you work extra.
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Cook at home and bring a lunchbox.
Eating out quickly eats up your budget. By cooking extra in the evening, you have lunch for the next day. A thermos of coffee also saves many kronor each week.
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Share accommodation to lower rent.
Living with a friend, partner, or as a lodger not only reduces rent but also other shared household costs like electricity, insurance, and general consumables.
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Use student discounts on subscriptions and services.
Everything from mobile subscriptions to gym memberships and streaming services offers student prices.
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Cycle instead of buying a monthly pass.
Public transport is often a significant recurring cost. By cycling, you save money and get free daily exercise.
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Think before you shop – wait 24 hours.
Impulse purchases can be costly in the long run. If you wait a day before buying, you have time to consider if you really need what you planned to buy.
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Get home insurance before an accident happens.
It may seem like an unnecessary cost, but lacking home insurance when something happens can be much more expensive. Many insurance companies offer discounts for students.