Student & graduate hub
Student finance, the part-time tax position, building a UK credit file, and the practical money side of moving out. This hub covers what you actually need to know between A-level results day and the first graduate payslip.
Last reviewed:
The ordered steps
1. Open a student / basic bank account and switch easily if you outgrow it
If you already have an account, the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) moves direct debits, standing orders and incoming payments in seven working days with a guarantee against errors.
2. Get on the electoral roll and build a credit file
Being registered to vote at your current address is the single biggest one-time boost to a UK credit file. Open a basic bank account if you don't already have one, pay any direct debit on time, and avoid maxing credit limits.
3. Use the trading allowance for side income
You can earn up to £1,000 a year from casual self-employment (tutoring, freelance design, eBay reselling) tax-free under the trading allowance. Above £1,000 you usually need to register for Self Assessment.
4. Check your tax code on your first payslip
Your tax code, National Insurance number, pension contribution and student loan deduction all show on a payslip. A 1257L tax code is the most common starting position. If something looks wrong, raise it with payroll early.
5. If you're on a low income, look at Help to Save
Working Tax Credit and Universal Credit recipients can open a Help to Save account giving a 50p bonus on every £1 saved, up to £600 over four years. The scheme has been extended to April 2027.