We understand that managing your finances is an important part of student life. At the University of Greenwich, we offer a wide range of support, advice and practical ways to help you make your money go further while you study.
What does it cost to live as a student?
Your costs will vary depending on your lifestyle and where you live, but here’s a typical weekly guide*:
| Expense | University accommodation | Private accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | £145.98 - £372.61 | £240 - £360 |
| Food & groceries | £45 - £65 | £45 - £65 |
| Utility bills | Included | £40 - £55 |
| Travel | £0 - £20 | £30 -£80 |
| Study materials | £15 - £30 | £15 - £30 |
| Entertainment | £25 - £45 | £25 - £45 |
| Other costs | £10 - £25 | £10 - £25 |
*Costs are an estimate and may vary.
Tip: Our on-campus accommodation includes bills, Wi-Fi and insurance, helping you budget more easily.
Financial support available
We offer a range of bursaries and funds to help with everyday costs:
- Greenwich Bursary – up to £700 for eligible students
- Accommodation Bursary – up to £700 towards your first-year housing
- Commuter Bursary – up to £1,000 per year for travel costs
- Digital Access Bursary – up to £300 for study equipment
- Medway Student Support Fund – up to £1,500 for students at Medway
- Care Leaver Bursary – up to £1,500 per year plus graduation support
- Food vouchers – emergency help with essentials
Earn while you learn
You can gain experience and earn money during your studies:
- Work as a student ambassador (up to 20 hours per week at £13/hour)
- Apply for roles through the Student JobShop
- Secure paid work before you arrive with the pre-entry ambassador scheme
Ways to save money as a student
There are plenty of simple ways to reduce your costs while studying:
Everyday savings
- Access free student discounts via UNiDAYS, TOTUM Lite and Student Beans
- Take advantage of local discounts near our campuses
- Bring your own food and use campus microwaves
- Enjoy low-cost campus meal deals, including meals from £3
Food and essentials
- Join free community breakfasts and dinners run with the Students’ Union
- Access free sanitary products across campus
- Visit the Avery Hill edible garden for free fresh produce
Travel and living
- Use the free bus between Avery Hill and Greenwich campuses
- Save on travel with Railcards and Oyster discounts
- Students are exempt from council tax
Study Resources
- Borrow laptops through our LapSafe scheme
- Our libraries are fine-free, helping reduce extra costs
Support if you need it
If you’re worried about money, you’re not alone – and support is available:
- Hardship Fund for students facing financial difficulty
- Money advice and budgeting workshops with our expert team
- Wellbeing Service offering confidential counselling
- 24/7 support through Spectrum Life
You can also apply for extenuating circumstances if financial pressures are affecting your studies.
Making student life more affordable
We’re committed to helping you succeed without financial barriers. From cash bursaries to flexible work opportunities and dedicated support, we’ll help you make the most of your time at Greenwich.