How Can I Improve My Credit Score as a Student

1. Make all your payments on time

Repaying your bills on time when you rent at university is an absolute must for a positive credit score. They are one of the main things credit agencies look at to judge your financial responsibility and give you a credit score. Take the responsibility for paying one of the bills and make sure that you always pay it on time. Setting up a direct debit is a good way of making sure this happens.

2. Register on the electoral roll

Putting yourself on to the electoral roll is another way to improve your credit score. It allows credit agencies the reassurance that you are who you say you are and that all the information you have provided to them is accurate. Without it, credit agencies can be wary of the potential for fraudulent activity, lowering your credit score as a result.

3. Keep any credit card limits and usage low

If you have a credit card: good. Having a line of credit which you repay punctually each month is a good way to prove your responsibility and improve your credit score. However, it’s important to keep your balance and usage as low as you can. This just helps to hammers home the point that you can be trusted with additional money.

4. Be good with your bank balance

Almost every student has an overdraft limit – it’s borderline necessary to have one if you are to make the most of a university lifestyle. However, whilst it might be tempting to see this as ‘free money’, managing it in the right way is essential to your credit score. So, don’t be silly with your spending. Make sure you have a comfortable amount in the bank each month.

Student life is a major turning point for lots of people: you’re constantly learning new things about your subject as well as about yourself. This learning process extends into how you look after your money. Being financially responsible as a student sets a precedent for the years to come and is the first real chance you get at improving your credit score. So, make it count.