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Financial Support

Whether you are a current student or about to start first year, financial planning can play a vital role in your success at UCD.

All students are expected to have budgeted appropriately before starting their studies and to manage their finances carefully throughout their time at UCD. However, we understand that many students may depend on some level of financial support to access higher education. Financial assistance is available through grants, funds and scholarships. To find out more about this, please read our Student Guide to Finances and Fees. 

We also understand that unexpected financial difficulties can occur at any stage of your studies. UCD has a number of funds to support students with specific needs. Click on the appropriate link below to find out more:

Financial Planning

A well-planned, realistic budget is a vital part of preparing for your time at UCD. Depending on your situation, the key costs to consider include:

  • Accommodation
  • Utility bills (heat, electricity, bins, etc.)
  • Food and groceries
  • Hygiene and self-care
  • Transport
  • Mobile phone and internet/broadband
  • Costs associated with your course (books, equipment, etc.)
  • Childcare costs
  • Sports / hobbies
  • Socialising / entertainment

As well as your usual budget, you will need to factor in costs specific to the academic year. For some students, this runs primarily from September to May, but for many, the academic year extends over twelve months due to placements, research, or other academic activities. You can download our UCD Budget Tool to help with this. The (opens in a new window)My Budget tool on the MABS (Money Advice & Budgeting Service) website is also useful for creating a budget plan, particularly for independent students or mature students whose financial situations may be more complex. 

The following steps may help you to start thinking about and planning your budget:

Step 1: The key to a realistic budget is developing a full picture of your expenses so that you know where your money is going. Start by tracking your spending – every euro you spend affects your overall budget. Once you have a full list of regular and occasional expenses, you can make decisions about your future spending.  

Step 2: Next, think about your needs and wants. Needs are the essential items you must pay for, such as accommodation and bills.  Wants are the things you could live without – rank these so that you can decide which to include in your university budget, and which to forgo in the short term while you invest in your studies. 

Once you’ve identified your needs and wants, you’re ready to start building your budget.  

Step 3: Begin planning your budget well in advance of the start of term, giving yourself plenty of time to identify and arrange any additional resources if needed. 

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