Budgeting basics

payment with card, machine, tuitionWe believe financial health is an essential part of student well-being. Use our toolkit of resources to plan your finances and stay on track so you can make the most of your UBC student experience.

Budgeting basics

Want to reduce your stress during the school year? Plan ahead.

Use our Spending Plan and budget planning worksheet to create your personalized financial plan for the year. Not sure what your program costs? Check the cost calculator.

Know your credit

Managing debt and maintaining good credit are essential skills. To learn more, see the Understanding Credit document listed below.

Why do you need to know your credit rating?

Your credit score can affect your ability to obtain future credit (such as line of credit, mortgage, or car loan) and may be checked by potential landlords or even some employers.

You can order a free credit report from either of the following Canadian agencies:

Ideas to Stretch Your Money

Here are some tips on cutting costs, saving money, and having fun:

  • Look for used copies of textbooks at the UBCSUO Paper & Supply Co (UNC 103).
  • Find local events to attend. Look for postings on the UBC Events Calendar and Kelowna Tourism webpage.
  • Have a clothing swap with friends. Gather clothes that no longer fit or that you haven’t worn in a while and get your friends together for a swap (You can do the same for household items and books).
  • Cut grocery costs by comparing labels (certain brands may cost as much as double the store brand for an almost identical item) and inquire about student discounts and/or customer appreciation days.
  • Get your fruit and veggie fix by buying fresh produce at local farmer’s markets.
  • Track your spending. For a couple of weeks, write down everything you buy. Add up how much you’ve spent and see if you could get better at managing your cash flow. It’s amazing how the little things add up.

Resources

Check out these links for more information on financial planning:

Additional financial resource documents:

Financial advising

Need help? Contact Admissions & Awards to make an appointment to speak with an Advisor.

Check out some budgeting tips and tricks from a UBC Okanagan student