Cost of Living

At Chester, we’re determined to help our students with any financial issues they may be facing. Studying at university is an investment in your future and we want to make it as accessible to as many people as possible, so here’s what we’re doing to help.

Financial Support

Bursaries

We have a wide range of bursaries you may be eligible for that can help support you through your studies including bursaries for students studying Foundation Years and those coming from lower household incomes, as well as those who are care experienced, estranged from their families, have caring responsibilities, or are members of the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller, Showman and Boater communities.

Two students and a member of the Residential Services team are siting around a table, outside having a coffee. One student faces the camera, the other student is facing the camera from the side, as is the Residential Advisor but from the opposing side.

Earn While You Learn

There are lots of ways that you can make some extra money alongside your studies. Getting a part-time job is also a great way to meet new people and gain new skills. Our Careers and Employability team can help you find local part-time work alongside your studies, while our UniJob service offers paid part-time roles working at the University.

Student Support Fund

We provide the Student Support Fund to eligible students who are having financial difficulties. The fund is administered by the Your Money Team and awards are given to students facing financial difficulties and are non-repayable.

A group of students at a desk

Student Support

Our Student Support team are on hand to provide assistance with any student wellbeing issues. If you are a student with special circumstances, you can discuss your financial arrangements with our Wellbeing and Mental Health team and our advisers may be able to suggest ways you can get financial help. 

Managing Your Money

Discover how to maintain your financial wellbeing throughout your time at university with our practical tips and expert advice on managing your money.

We’ll guide you through creating an easy yet effective budget, offer strategies to save money, and look at how to make your money go further.

You’ll also find information on how to get in touch with our Student Money Advisers and learn about the support our Careers and Employability team can provide to help you top up your income with part-time work.

podcast recording studio

The Student Support Podcast

Listen to The Student Experience Podcast’s money saving tips. These conversations contain practical advice that will help you manage your money more effectively while still enjoying your student experience to the fullest. Join us as we delve into money saving tips on healthcare, subscriptions, cooking, and student discounts to make every pound count. These episodes are a must-listen for every student striving to make the most of their money.

Help on and around campus

Your Money Drop-ins and Pop-ups

The Your Money Team are part of Student Services and are on hand to help with financial concerns. As part of their service, they run a regular Your Money Pop-Up where you can have a chat with one of our friendly Student Money Advisers. This is a great opportunity to get your money-related questions answered and learn about how to manage your finances going forward.

Free Loan Equipment

We have a range of computers available and laptops you can loan across our sites for free, as well as access to thousands of books, e-books and e-journals.

A person using a laptop

Student Services Help Desk

The Student Services Helpdesk is the gateway to all the support Student Services has to offer. Staffed by a knowledgeable team of advisers, they can explore your situation and set you up with the teams who can support you, such as Wellbeing and Mental Health, Disability and Inclusion, and Your Money.