These tips can work for students but also may be useful to anyone who needs to stretch their resources a bit further.
Bank accounts
Many banks offer discounts to students in the hope that they will make money from you in the future. Freebies from banks may be useful however there could be other useful incentives such as interest free overdrafts, breakdown cover, technology insurance or possibly cash back.
Insurance
It might be the case that your parents house insurance policy also covers you in student accommodation. It worth checking before you fork out for a separate insurance policy. Important possessions such as laptop, bike and other course specialised equipment are essential to be covered.
Food
Shop around for food, stores such as Lidl and Aldi can provide alot of the bare essentials at half the cost! Try not to buy too much fresh produce as in most cases, half doesn’t get eaten and gets thrown away! Look out for offers such as 2 for 1, buy one get one’s, reduced price, damaged goods. Learning to cook rather than surviving on ready made food can also drastically save money.
Travel
Rail is very expensive, try to book your tickets in advance online. Also get hold of a student rail card to further reduce the costs! Use the mega bus £1.50 deals. Or share petrol costs with a friend travelling the same direction! Invest in a bike if you have the space or try to walk as much as possible (also keeps you fit!).
Living
Make sure your housemates are all full time students. Anyone who isn’t will incure Council Tax. TV License can be shared if the TV is in a communal room. UCAS Extra card can provid discounts in shops and restaurants and also online. Whenever buying in a shop, enquire as to whether they have any student discount, 9 times out of 10 you will get a good percentage off!
I hope some of these tips help, but if you have more please comment and I will add them to the ilst.