Introduction
Student life in the Netherlands is an exciting adventure filled with new experiences and opportunities. However, managing your finances while juggling academics can be challenging. Luckily, living on a student budget doesn’t mean sacrificing fun or comfort. We’ll walk you through essential hacks to help you stretch your money further, ensuring you get the most out of your university experience.
1. Tap into Student Discounts
Discovering Student Discounts
Student discounts are everywhere if you know where to look. Websites like Student Beans, StudentenKorting, UNiDAYS, and the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) offer a treasure trove of deals. Whether it’s a discount at your local bookstore, affordable gym memberships, or savings on a new laptop, these discounts can make a significant difference over time.
Save on Travel and Commute
The Netherlands offers a student-friendly public transport system, making it easy and affordable to get around the country. With the OV-chipkaart, a travel card used nationwide, students can enjoy free or discounted travel on buses, trams, trains, and more. Plus, the national railway service, NS, often provides special discounts and promotions for students, so it’s worth checking their website regularly to find the best deals.
Eating on a Budget
Enjoying a meal out doesn’t have to break the bank. Many cafes and restaurants near universities offer student discounts, so keep your student ID handy. From discounted coffees to budget-friendly meals, these deals let you enjoy dining out without overspending.
2. Best Things in Life Come Free
Explore Free Activities
The Netherlands offers a variety of free and low-cost activities perfect for students, from free museums to public parks and neighborhood festivals. There's always something happening, so keep an eye out for events in your area.
Join Student Communities
Engage with student communities and clubs for affordable entertainment. Whether it’s a movie night, a group hike, or even a trip abroad, these communities offer both social interaction and budget-friendly fun. Universities often have bulletin boards or online forums to help you find these opportunities. Don’t be afraid to ask people in your class or program about it.
Making the Most of Public Libraries
Public libraries in the Netherlands are more than just places to borrow books. They often provide free Wi-Fi, quiet study spaces, and host events like workshops and author talks. It’s a great way to spend your time productively without spending money.
If you want to pick up Dutch during your studies, your local OBA offers Taalcafé, where you can practice the language and meet others at your level.
3. Eating Good, Feeling Good
Cook at Home
Cooking at home is one of the most effective ways to save money while keeping your diet healthy. Plan your meals for the week to simplify your grocery shopping and avoid impulse purchases. By sticking to a meal plan, you’ll cut down on food waste and ensure your meals are nutritious and balanced.
Take on Grocery Stores
Stores like Lidl and Aldi are known for their wallet-friendly prices. Watch out for weekly deals and discounts to get even more value. Buying in bulk can also help you save over time, especially for non-perishable items (You can never have too much toilet paper!). Apps like TooGoodToGo offer discounted groceries that would otherwise go to waste–a win-win for both your wallet and the environment.
Sharing Meals with Friends
Sharing meals can be both budget-friendly and a heartwarming experience, especially for international students who might be feeling homesick. Hosting potluck dinners where everyone brings a dish allows you to explore diverse cuisines, enjoy the company of friends, and ease the financial burden of cooking. It’s a fantastic way to create a sense of community, try new recipes, and bring a little taste of home to your student life.
4. Keeping Transportation Costs Down
Bike Everywhere
The Netherlands is renowned for its bike-friendly cities. Investing in a good quality second-hand bike is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to get around. With a bike, you can go anywhere at any time, come and go as you please, you don’t need to be chasing the last tram home. Plus, it's a great way to stay fit!
Split the Ride
For longer trips where biking isn’t practical, carpooling or using ride-sharing services like BlaBlaCar can be a budget-friendly and eco-friendly alternative. Sharing travel costs with others heading in the same direction not only helps you save money but also reduces your carbon footprint.
5. Maximizing Academic Resources
Access Free Textbooks
Textbooks can be a major expense, but there are ways to minimize this cost. Check your university library for the books you need or explore websites like Bookboon for free textbooks on various subjects. You can always reach out to students who have taken the class before; they might sell you their used textbooks, and sometimes these come with valuable notes and highlights—score!
Leverage Online Learning
Platforms like Coursera and edX offer free courses from top universities. These can supplement your studies and provide additional resources without the hefty price tag. Many courses offer certificates at a fee, but the knowledge itself is free.
6. Thriving on a Student Budget
Prioritizing Needs Over Wants
Separate your needs from your wants. Start by prioritizing essentials like rent, food, and study materials. Once those are taken care of, use any extra funds for fun activities, whether that’s a new pair of sneakers or a night out with friends. It’s all about balancing your basic needs with the little things that make student life enjoyable.
Seeking Financial Advice
We’ve all been there: being 18 and suddenly responsible for managing your own finances can be overwhelming. If you’re feeling unsure, don’t hesitate to seek financial advice. Many universities offer financial counseling services that provide personalized guidance and strategies to help you navigate your budget with confidence. Additionally, check with your university's student services to see what assistance is available, whether it's emergency grants or short-term loans.
7. Handling Unexpected Expenses
Build an Emergency Fund
Setting aside a small amount each month for an emergency fund can provide a safety net for unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or urgent travel needs.
Finding Part-Time Work
If unexpected expenses arise, picking up a part-time job can be a great way to earn extra income. Check your university's job board for student-friendly positions, or take the initiative by walking into local cafés and restaurants with your resume. You can also consider food delivery jobs, which offer the flexibility to set your own hours.
8. Using bunq to Track Expenses
Practice Mindful Spending
Tracking expenses, budgeting, saving and managing money can be a challenge, especially if you're on a student budget. That's why bunq was created to make money admin easy and effortless, giving you the freedom to enjoy your student life. The bunq app itself can actually be a true game-changer for budgeting. It offers real-time updates on your spending, categorizes expenses, and helps you set and track financial goals. By regularly reviewing your spending through bunq’s intuitive interface, you can identify unnecessary costs and reduce financial stress, making it easier to stay on top of your budget and make your money go further.
Setting Up bunq
With bunq, you can open a fully-fledged bank account in less than 5 minutes. All you need is your phone. Once set up, you can take advantage of countless features that help you save time and money.
Analyze and Improve Your Spending
With bunq, you can easily track your monthly spending and identify areas where you can cut back. This way, you can always make informed financial decisions and stick to your budget.
Conclusion
Managing your finances as a student in the Netherlands doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these budget-friendly tips, you can enjoy university life without financial stress. From utilizing student discounts to meal planning at home and using budgeting apps, these strategies will help you make the most of your money. Start implementing your new budget today and take control of your finances with ease. Happy budgeting!
