University Support For Commuting Students: Financial Aid Options

The cost of university is a significant concern for many students, and one way to reduce expenses is to commute to campus rather than live in university-owned housing. This option provides a unique experience, with benefits such as reduced costs, more flexibility, and privacy. However, it can also be expensive and socially limiting, with commuters feeling like outsiders and missing out on the typical college experience. While some universities may offer commuting support, the overall cost of transport can be high, and students must weigh the pros and cons of commuting versus living on campus.

Pros and cons of being a commuter student

Commuter students are those who choose to live at home or off-campus while attending university. This option is often chosen for financial reasons, health concerns, family obligations, or job responsibilities. While being a commuter student can save money, it also comes with some challenges and drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide if being a commuter student is the right choice for you:

Pros of Being a Commuter Student:

• Financial Savings: Living at home or off-campus can result in significant financial savings for students, especially on room and board, and food expenses.
• Privacy and Comfort: Commuter students get to enjoy the privacy and comfort of their own room at home. They can also continue to use the same resources as they did before, such as laundry, a job, and internet access.
• Convenience and Flexibility: Not having to move can be more convenient in terms of logistics and travel. Commuter students also have the freedom to arrive or leave campus whenever they want.
• Support System: By living at home, commuter students can maintain their support system, including family, friends, and mentors, who can lend a hand when needed.
• Home-cooked Meals: Eating home-cooked meals can be healthier and more cost-effective than relying on campus dining options.

Cons of Being a Commuter Student:

• Social Life and Friendships: One of the biggest challenges for commuter students is feeling left out of the typical social life and activities on campus. It can be harder to make friends and feel included in the campus community.
• Commute Time and Transportation Costs: Commuter students often have longer travel times and may need to rely on public transportation or deal with parking challenges on campus.
• Group Projects and Late-Night Studying: It can be difficult for commuter students to participate in group projects and late-night study sessions, as they may not be able to stay on campus as easily as residential students.
• Less Independence: Living at home means that commuter students may not experience the same level of independence as those who live on their own for the first time.
• Errands and Family Interruptions: Even with the comfort of their own bedroom, commuter students may still have to deal with family interruptions during study time and may be tasked with running errands.

While there are both pros and cons to being a commuter student, it ultimately depends on your personal situation and preferences. For some, the financial savings and comfort of home may outweigh the social drawbacks, while others may prioritize the independence and social life that comes with living on campus.

Cost of commuting

Commuting to university can be a great way to save money, but there are a few costs to consider that can add up. Here are some factors to keep in mind when calculating the cost of commuting:

Travel Expenses

Travel is likely to be one of your biggest expenses when commuting to university. Whether you're taking the train, bus, or driving, there will be costs involved. To save money, you can look into getting a Railcard or a student bus pass, which offer discounts on fares. Carpooling with other students who live nearby is another way to reduce travel costs.

Food

If you're going to be on campus all day, you'll need to bring food and snacks to keep you going. Preparing your meals at home is usually much cheaper than buying food on campus. Many universities offer meal plans for commuter students, but these can vary in cost. Bringing your own lunch and snacks can save you a significant amount of money. Don't forget to bring a refillable water bottle and a reusable coffee cup to reduce waste and save money on drinks.

Time and Opportunity Cost

Commuting to university can take up a lot of time, which could otherwise be spent studying, socialising, or working. The time spent commuting is an opportunity cost that should be considered when deciding whether to commute or live on campus. Additionally, commuter students may need to plan their visits to campus more carefully, taking into account traffic patterns and public transportation schedules.

Social Life and Extracurricular Activities

While commuting can save you money, it may impact your social life and sense of connection to the university community. Many commuter students feel like social outsiders and find it challenging to make friends with students who live on campus. However, there are ways to stay connected and build a rich college experience. Joining clubs, attending events, seeking on-campus employment, and taking advantage of commuter resources can help you feel more integrated.

Housing Costs

If you choose to live at home while commuting to university, your housing costs will likely be lower compared to living in a dorm or renting an apartment. However, it's important to consider any contributions you may need to make to your family household, such as groceries or utilities. Additionally, your financial aid package may be lower if your total costs are reduced by commuting.

Saving money as a commuter student

Commuter students can save a lot of money by choosing to live at home with their family or off-campus. However, the costs of commuting can add up, so here are some tips to keep your budget in check while at university.

Travel

Travel will likely be one of your biggest expenses as a student, but there are ways to reduce the cost. If you're travelling by train, invest in a Railcard. A Railcard usually costs around £30 per year, but it will save you a third on train tickets, so the card will pay for itself in no time. You can also get a Railcard for free if you open a student bank account with Santander. If you're travelling by bus, look into student bus passes, such as the one offered by National Express West Midlands. If you drive to university, consider carpooling with other students who live nearby to save on petrol.

Food

If you're going to be on campus all day, prepare your meals and snacks at home and bring them with you. Making your own lunch can save you £5-10 a day, and bringing drinks in a refillable water bottle will also save you money. If you want a hot drink, bring your reusable coffee cup and take advantage of the small discounts many coffee shops offer for using your own cup. When eating out with friends, look for restaurants that offer student discounts.

Hold off on new purchases

Resist the temptation to buy lots of new things before starting university. Wait until you know what you need and what your preferences are. For example, you may be able to borrow textbooks from the library instead of buying them, and you may not need to buy new stationery, tech, or clothes.

Get a part-time job

As a commuter student, you'll have more options for part-time work, as you can choose a job closer to home or campus. A little extra income can go a long way in helping with living costs and giving you some extra money to socialise.

Take advantage of campus resources

Many services are available on campus, such as financial aid offices, tutoring, and health centres. Some universities also offer designated commuter life programming, such as mentoring and seminars, as well as information on transportation options. Make use of these resources—your tuition and fees pay for them, after all.

Commuter student misconceptions

Commuter students make up a large proportion of college students, and their experiences are unique. However, there are some misconceptions about being a commuter student.

Misconception 1: Commuting is not expensive

While living at home or off-campus can save students a lot of money, commuting itself can be expensive. The costs of travel can add up, especially if you have to take a combination of transport options. In some cases, it may be cheaper to use monthly travel cards, but there are also pay-as-you-go options that can be more cost-effective. There may also be the added cost of cabs or ride-shares for late-night study sessions or events.

Misconception 2: Commuting students are less independent

Living on your own does not necessarily make you more independent. Living at home should not stop you from learning basic life skills such as paying bills and being financially responsible. Domestic skills and financial responsibility are not automatically gained by moving out.

Misconception 3: Commuting limits your university experience

Commuting students may feel that they are missing out on the typical social aspects of college life, such as impromptu naps and late-night hangs. They may feel like social outsiders and that it is harder to make friends. However, many commuters find ways to be active on campus and enjoy student experiences and society events. For example, joining clubs, attending events, and taking advantage of campus resources can help commuters build connections with peers.

Misconception 4: Commuting is not productive

Commuting can be incredibly productive, especially if it is a lengthy commute. This time can be used to listen to podcasts, read, or do other activities that get you into a productive mindset for when you arrive on campus.

Misconception 5: Commuting is not enjoyable

While commuting can be expensive and tiring, it can also be enjoyable, especially if you find ways to make the most of your commute, such as by listening to podcasts or reading. Additionally, the privacy and autonomy of living off-campus may be preferable to some students.

The social life of a commuter student

Commuter students often have to put in more effort to socialise and build connections with their peers. They may need to initiate conversations with other students and be proactive in joining clubs, attending events, and seeking on-campus employment. It can be more difficult for them to make friends and form study groups, especially if they are not on campus as much as residential students. Commuter students may also find it harder to participate in campus clubs or organisations due to their commute and other responsibilities.

Additionally, commuter students often have to deal with the challenges of commuting, such as long travel times and transportation costs. These factors can make it more difficult for them to stay on campus and socialise outside of class time. They may also have to balance their academic responsibilities with work or family obligations, leaving less time for social activities.

However, there are some benefits that commuter students may have in terms of social life. They often have more flexibility with their schedules, allowing them to work or intern while attending school. They can also save money by living at home, which can give them more financial freedom to socialise.

Overall, while there are challenges, commuter students can still have a rich social life by being proactive, getting involved in campus activities, and taking advantage of the opportunities available to them.

Frequently asked questions