Heading back to college can be a pretty testing time for the old bank balance. 

Luckily, there are a few money saving hacks students can tap into to make the most of what can already be an overstretched budget. 

KBC has a few tips for new or returning students, who need a little advice when it comes to managing their finances. 

1. Get tech savvy

Download one of the many free budgeting apps to see exactly where your money goes, and remember to include any cashback or debit card spending. 

2. Separate essentials from fun money

If you get financial support for bigger items like fees and accommodation, put this money into a separate account so that you’re not tempted to use it for day-to-day expenses.

That way, you know it’s there when you really need it.

3. Go on campus for unexpected expenses

Check out on-campus services for unexpected expenses like a doctor’s appointment or broken laptop.

Student IT labs and other college services are a great place to start for student-friendly rates.

4. Make the most of the student discount

Many cafes, cinemas, clothes and books shops offer student discounts, so always ask. Every 10% discount adds up. 

If you join a society, many of the society membership cards can have additional discount bonuses.

5. Transportation costs add up

Invest in a bike – it’s a healthy way to get around quickly and could save money in the long-run on other transport options.

Otherwise, make sure you get a student Leap card. 

As digital natives, sometimes the easiest way to pay for things can be through our smart phones. KBC’s Student Account offers a host of digital features including free contactless payments and Apple Pay or Android Pay.

It also offers free day to day banking, which means no account maintenance or transaction fees to worry about, and gives students the chance to receive €100 when they open a current account with KBC Bank Ireland.

Not too shabby if we do say so ourselves.

The €100 cash-back offer works by giving student customers €10 on account opening and the remaining €90 when the student makes at least 10 debit card transactions and registers for online/mobile banking.

If only we still qualified for a student account…