Overview
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Student Services : Cost of Living
No matter how big or small the problem, we're here to help
Cost of Living
In 2025, Bournemouth was named in the NatWest Student Living Index as one of the top 10 most affordable locations for students.
At AUB, we'll work hard to ensure your time at university is just as affordable, providing support if and when you find yourself struggling during the cost of living crisis.
If you're worried about anything, please contact Student Services via studentservices@aub.ac.uk or pop in to see us on campus.
Financial support
At AUB, we offer bursaries and additional funding through the Access and Participation Fund, as well as for eligible Foundation Students.
Cost of living support
We run a number of on-campus initiatives in collaboration with the Student Union to ensure there are plenty of helpful options available. Here’s what we currently have to offer.
For when you need a little extra help, visit the AUBSU Student Pantry for basic, non-perishable groceries and household items. You can find this in The Library on AUB Campus – here's how.
For opening times, check The Library's website.
Enjoy the lunchtime Dish of the Day for only £4.25.
The Refectory, AUB Campus | Monday–Friday, 11.30–14.30
For any students lacking inspiration for low-cost meals, they can check out AUBSU's Cost of Living Cookbook online. This book of simple, affordable and tasty recipes was put together and illustrated by student Bee Taylor.
AUB is a referral agency for Bournemouth Foodbank. This means we can register students for vouchers or share other resources to help if needed.
If you're experiencing difficulties accessing food, please contact Student Services or come into the office to speak to a Student Services Adviser.
Employment
Part-time work can be a great way to support yourself financially while building skills and experience during your time at university. At AUB Futures, we're here to connect you with opportunities that fit around your studies and help you take your next steps now, not later.
Our Jobs and Opportunities Board features local part-time jobs, commissions, open-calls and short-term paid gigs, all hand-picked by our team for AUB students and graduates. Every listing is tailored to the creative industries and our local community, so you can find work that’s relevant, flexible, and worth your time. You’ll also find the AUB Brand, Marketing and Future Students team recruit annually for roles such as Student Ambassadors, where you can represent AUB at events, support on-campus activity and gain valuable, professional experience.
Access Futures Careers Resources for job hunting support (including CV writing and interviews), or if in doubt book a 1:1 careers appointment to get your questions answered.
Medical care costs
If you know you'll have to pay for a lot of NHS prescriptions, it may be cheaper to buy a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC) – effectively a prescription "season ticket". Find out more information about PPCs on the NHS website.
Our Student Services Advisers will be happy to help you with any applications you may need to make, so please contact them to discuss.
Managing your money
It can be a challenge to budget for the whole year and there's lots to think about. However, our Student Services Advisers are here to help! We have twice weekly drop-ins for practical budgeting advice – just book online via AUB Bookings.
You can also access helpful budgeting advice online through sites like WHICH, Money Saving Expert and Save the Student – this even has a save money section with 83 ideas to help your budget stretch that bit further!
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