Cost of living support
We’re here to support you with managing the increased cost of living, including meal deals, financial support and accessing technology.
Cost of living support for students
Financial support
The University has a range of emergency financial support for students who are in financial difficulty.
You don't need to be in an emergency situation to apply for financial support.
Access to food
Meal Deals at Canterbury
Meal deal prices range from £3.50 - £4.00, including a hot meal with a vegetable or salad side.
Microwaves
Want to heat up leftovers to eat on campus, or make your own hot drink? Check out all our campus lounges at our campuses.
Campus Pantry
KSU Campus Pantry provides short-term support to students in need of supplemental food. The first time you use the service there will be no questions asked, just show your student ID.
Sanitary products
You can pick up free sanitary products from locations at our Canterbury and Medway campuses.
Travel discounts
Kent students get discounts on public transport to help you save on your travel.
Part-time work
Here are some tips if you'd like to get a part-time or a temporary job while you study.
Uni accommodation
We fix our accommodation prices, which includes bills, for the year ahead and do everything we can to keep them low.
KSU Advice Service
The Kent Students' Union Advice Service can help with:
- Budgeting and financial management
- Signposting you to organisations who can help with money advice and debt management or benefit applications
- Checking that you are receiving the correct amount of student funding from Student Finance England and helping with student loan problems
- Maximising your income and checking eligibility for benefits, hardship funds and other sources of income
Free events
Most of our student events are free, so you don't need to miss out if funds are running low.
These include regular events run by our ResLife Team for students in on-campus accommodation, Kent Students' Union events and many other events from across the uni to help you connect with others and learn new skills.
Staying well
Living on campus? You have free membership!
All first year students and students who live on campus have free Premium Plus gym membership with Kent Sport.
Affordable gym access
Not eligible for free membership? Don't worry - we have different gym membership options for every budget.
Wellbeing support
Financial strain can take a toll on your wellbeing. See events and support to help boost your wellbeing.
Cost of Living Taskforce
We have a Cost of Living Taskforce who meet regularly to discuss issues around the increasing cost of living and to come up with solutions to benefit our students.
The Taskforce includes all of the Kent Students' Union Student Officer Team. If you want to provide feedback or ideas about what we can do, please get in touch with your Kent Students' Union Officers.
