Student Budget Calculator

Plan your monthly student budget — income vs expenses — and see if your maintenance loan covers your costs or where you need to cut back.

Monthly Income

Maintenance loan (£/month)

Part-time job income (£/month)

Parental contribution (£/month)

Other income (£/month)

Monthly Expenses

Rent / accommodation (£)

Food & groceries (£)

Transport (£)

Going out / social (£)

Subscriptions & phone (£)

Books & course costs (£)

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Fill in the details to get your result.

How This Works

This calculator compares your total monthly income (maintenance loan + part-time work + other sources) against your total monthly outgoings. The UK average student maintenance loan is £9,978/year (£998/term, ~£833/month across 12 months). Many students receive significantly less based on household income — use our Maintenance Loan Calculator for your specific entitlement.

Most students in deficit cut social spending first (the most flexible category), then food (meal prep instead of eating out). Part-time work of 10–15 hours per week during term time is very common and manageable for most students. Many universities also have hardship funds — check with your student services. Avoid high-interest payday loans or credit cards as a solution.