TU cost of living guide highlights the savings students make by choosing to live with a host family

A student cost of living guide developed by Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) has highlighted potential savings of up to €93 a week for students that choose to live with a host family compared to other student accommodation options.

The news comes as University applicants across Ireland prepare to make their final amendments to their CAO application before the Change of Mind deadline on Friday, 1 July 2022.

The TU Dublin Student Cost of Living Guide is published annually to assist students in preparing financially for University.

Collated by staff working in Student Services and Well-Being at TU Dublin, the guide shows that staying home is over €7,000 cheaper for students and their families, with students living in rented accommodation advised to budget €13,305 for the college year, while a student living at home will need €6,159.

According to Dr Rachel O’Connor, Student Engagement and Experience Officer, TU Dublin, students that must live away from home can make substantial savings by choosing to live with a host family.

“Private rooms in purpose-built accommodation in Dublin City Centre cost between €230 to €258 per week; however, living with a host family this year is typically €165 per week for a five-day agreement, including utility bills.

“Not only is this option the most economical, but it also offers the most flexibility as students can opt for a five-day rental agreement over 25 to 30 weeks compared to seven days over 40 weeks in a student hub.”

Continuing, Dr Rachel O’ Connor said, “The University is currently updating its Host Family database on its accommodation website and households interested in registering as a Host Family should visit www.tudublin.ie/hostfamilyandlandlords for more information.”

Dr Rachel O’Connor, Student Engagement and Experience Officer, TU Dublin, provided other cost-saving tips for prospective students.

• All students should get a LEAP Young Adult Card to save money on public transport, as fare capping (19-23 years) will bring big savings, with a daily cap of €2.80 and a weekly cap of €11 for travel across the network.
• Keep food costs by preparing a shopping list before your weekly grocery shop. Find out when your local supermarket tends to reduce items and arrange to do your shopping around that time – this is often after 6pm. When looking for accommodation, check that you have access to a good freezer, so your bargains last longer! Living with other people is usually cheaper than doing one big shop rather than shopping for one person. Always ask if there’s a student discount; you’ll be surprised at how many places offer them.
• Shop around for your utilities and subscriptions; many phone and subscription services provide free trials and half-price contracts, while mobile phone companies have loyalty deals. It’s important to cancel subscriptions you are no longer using, as they all add up.
• Invest in the right equipment, and find out what software is freely available in your college. In addition, all universities and HEIs can access the HEAnet Store, which provides well-priced suitable laptops and equipment.
• Well-being and medical costs. All universities offer multiple supports, from free Student Healthcare to subsidised Sports and Gym facilities. While there be nominal costs to access some facilities, many services such as Counselling and GP services are free. Students should keep an eye out for college deals on healthy activities such as Yoga, Mindfulness and Spin classes.
• Check out if you are eligible for scholarships. For example, last year TU Dublin and the TU Dublin Foundation gave out over €500k in scholarships to students.
• Get involved in Clubs, Societies, and your Student Union. Universities have thriving student-led organisations providing friendships, networks, great social outlets, and news experiences. With heavily discounted events and activities, students should take advantage of the deals to save money.
• Make friends and share resources. Your friends are the best investment you can make in your life, and they are free! Quite often, the first year of college can be daunting, but everyone is in the same boat, so try to get involved early and meet people.
• Avail of the wonderful Academic and Career services in your college. These services are available in-person and online, making student engagement even easier, and they can make a huge difference to your college experience.
• Please remember that if you’re struggling, please get in touch with the Financial Aid service in your college assistance.

The TU Dublin Student Cost of Living Guide is available online from the TU Dublin website.