Gemma Jones discusses how to best manage financial costs during training as a dental nurse.

It is a well known fact that dental training isn’t cheap. While you’re working towards a career which makes a tangible difference to the world, that doesn’t negate the immediate realities of having to afford school, books, equipment, and the general cost of living.

Recent reports showed that as many as 42 per cent of dental students couldn’t afford the costs of their bills and other living expenses. That eye-opening figure had nearly doubled across 12 months, with more students than ever finding it hard to cope with the pressures of staying afloat.

If you’re a dental nursing student finding it tough to juggle school alongside money management, this guide should be your first port of call for navigating the financial storm. Today, we’ll provide support for those looking to manage costs while training for a career as a dental nurse.

Understand your student loan allowance

While it might sound obvious, knowing exactly how much you can expect to receive as part of your maintenance loan will help to provide some clarity on the comings and goings of your current account every month.

When it comes to your finances, knowledge is power. Understanding what you’re starting the month or quarter with will give you a better idea of how your financial health is looking at the end of that same period.

The total amount you’ll be given will vary depending on your financial circumstances. For the 2023-24 school year, the maximum amount you could receive is:

  • Up to £8,400 if you’re living at home.
  • Up to £9,978 if you’re living away from home, outside of London.
  • Up to £13,022 if you’re living away from home, in London.
  • Up to £11,427 if you spend a year studying abroad as part of your UK course.
  • Up to £4,221 if you’re a mature student over 60 on the first day of the first academic year of your course.

Have a budget in place for your monthly expenses

Once you know what’s coming into your account, the trick is to create a budget which works around it. You can choose to allot a certain percentage of your money across several different budgets, or use one master sheet which factors in every cost you have to make throughout the month.

Other expenses to consider are the cost of learning materials, dental equipment, food and drink, travel expenses, and your social life. Breaking these down into individual sections within one larger sheet is an effective way to stay on top of your money. This transparent approach lets you know where you stand at all times.

Reach out via forums for old textbooks and equipment

You won’t be the first (nor the last) dental student looking to cut costs without compromising on the quality of their education. One of the best places to turn for help is anywhere where former students may gather. When it comes to this kind of locale, online forums are one of your best bets.

Whether a general forum or one that exists specifically to help dental students, reaching out to former alumni (or even just those who’ve already completed the academic year you’re in) can be a gamechanger.

Good samaritans will often pass down their textbooks (and sometimes even notes) if they think it might help a student who’s in the same position they once were. This can help you save a fortune on books which, ultimately, have a relatively short lifespan for your needs.

Owing to the technical nature of your course, there’s also going to be a host of medical equipment which you’ll need to use in order to master your craft. This is another area where prudent and shrewd spending will suit you well.

Rather than kitting yourself out with all the latest gizmos and gadgets, think about sourcing your equipment from former students. Remember, your equipment doesn’t need to be shiny and new, but it does have to still be safe and functional. If you aren’t sure if something is going to be appropriate to use, avoid buying it second-hand.

Do you feel better prepared for managing money while studying for a dental nurse degree? Keep these three core factors in mind for taking some of the strain off your wallet.

References available on request.

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