Study & Heathcare
Study
Free computer software
Setting yourself up with a PC or laptop for your studies can be expensive business. It is possible to get free legitimate software for your laptop, PC or Mac, check out price comparison sites for further information. The University also offers 24 hour computer services, so think carefully about whether or not you need to purchase your own.
Laptop purchasing
If your thinking of buying a laptop, it is possible to get a good deal, even from a ‘big-name’ for around £300-£400, make sure you have a good shop around before rushing in to any purchases; again price comparison sites can help you make an informed decisions. Also, pay careful attention to the length of the guarantee, will this last you to the full length of your course and if not, will you be able to afford to repairs if needs be?
Printing costs
Depending on the nature of your programme and the amount of printing you will be required to do, it might be more cost effective for you to purchase you own printer. This is a personal decision, but is something to consider at the start of term. Remember to always check the price of toner cartridges before you chose your printer as they’re not always as cheap as you’d think.
Course Supplies
To help save money on books and stationery at the start of term take advantage of ‘back to school’ deals in supermarkets who can offer great prices on the basics. Have a chat with your course team before you spend money on books. It's a good idea to keep an eye out for second hand books or consider selling on your unwanted books at the end of the year.
Healthcare
Vitamins
Big supermarkets tend to offer great deals on vitamins and minerals, such as 3 for 2 etc as apposed to your high street pharmacy and health and beauty retailers.
Eye care
The School of Optometry and Visions Sciences offer free eye test and discount on glasses. Visit the Eyeclinic website for further information.
Contact Lenses
Going on-line can save you a small fortune. There are a variety of online distribution stores which can supply a variety of major brands names, you may find your current contact lenses for half the price rather than getting them from your current retailer. Definitely worth a look!
Dental
Although most healthcare is free for UK residents under the NHS. There are still some fixed charges for care, including dental. In Wales young people under the age of 25 qualify for free dental examinations, but not free treatment.As a whole, students are not exempt from these charges. If you have a low income you can apply on a HC1 form for exemption for healthcare charges. You will need to provide a range of documents to show you income, including your Cardiff University Bursary, please see your Student Loans Company website if you need a copy of this letter (your online student finance account in the ‘correspondence’ section).
Money saving snippet:
If you choose to undertake some part-time work whilst you are studying it could be beneficial for you to seek employment in places you like to shop, you might be able to take advantage of employee discount and other benefits.