Supporting you with the cost of living
We understand that finances can be challenging, which is why we provide students with financial and wellbeing support to help manage the rising cost of living.
Budgeting tips from students
Commuting
Discounted train travel
We are a 10-minute walk from the station, with regular services from Darlington, Hartlepool, Redcar, Newcastle and beyond. Railcards and student discounts can reduce travel costs – typically saving one-third on journeys.
Most railcards can be purchased online and downloaded through the Railcard App. Some can also be bought at staffed ticket offices. Mature students who do not meet the age criteria can apply for a student railcard using photographic proof of their passport.
Book your train tickets online or in person - to qualify for a reduced rate ticket you must be able to present your railcard during your journey. Failing to do this will invalidate your train ticket.
Bus travel
The campus is served by numerous bus routes, with stops directly outside and nearby. Arriva and Stagecoach operate regular services across Teesside and the North East. Apps can provide live updates and ticket savings. The Tees Valley also offers a 21-and-under bus fare at £1 for a single journey and £3 for all-day tickets.
Student car and bicycle parking
If you're driving and looking to park on campus, you can register for student parking. There are three options, but you can only choose one. Registering for parking only allows access to the car park(s), it does not guarantee a parking space. Parking charges are £2 for all day, or £1.50 for four hours.
There are also several pay-and-display car parks. We encourage car sharing where possible.
If you live locally, cycling is a brilliant way to commute. The University has a limited number of covered bicycle stores with no charge. There are also other areas around campus where bikes can be secured for free during the day.
Financial support
Finance advice
Our finance advisers are available throughout the year to provide guidance on tuition fees, student loans, benefits, delayed funding loans and more.
If you're struggling with money and living costs, speak to us and we can help you get the support you need.
Email studentlife@tees.ac.uk
Student discounts
Take advantage of offers using UNiDAYS, Student Beans and TOTUM. Ask about student discount offers when you are shopping and show your Teesside University ID card.
he TOTUM app is free to download and provides great discounts and offers on food, drink, the cinema, fashion, music and more. A paid membership to TOTUM is required for a physical card, available for £14.99 for one year or £24.99 for two years.
Student Support Fund
Support is available for current students experiencing financial difficulties through the Student Support Fund.
Scholarships and bursaries
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help you on your way – and you don't have to pay them back.
Funding
You have two main costs to think about – your tuition fees and living costs. The good news is that you may be able to get financial help from Student Finance England for both.
Part-time work
We offer a range of part-time work opportunities for students on campus and at local businesses. Unitemps is our full-service agency providing professional recruitment support to help you secure part-time or full-time temporary roles that fit around your schedule and support your studies.
Tech support
Borrow an iPad with Office 365
You can borrow an Apple iPad with Office 365 and compatible keyboard each semester, plus £100 credit for learning resources.
The Future Facing Learning toolkit includes Microsoft Teams, engagement apps like Socrative and Padlet, MyTU, Blackboard, and Adobe Studio, giving you the tools to study, collaborate and create - on campus or anywhere.
Lecturers embed these tools into teaching, from eBooks and simulations to lecture capture, making learning interactive and practical. The iPad's accessibility features and our dedicated support ensures everyone can thrive.
As Europe's first Adobe Creative Campus, we provide access to over 20 industry-standard apps, such as Photoshop and InDesign, helping you develop the creative and digital skills to succeed.