If you're excited about going to University, then maybe you've already started to plan ahead. You might have already chosen your university, got all your paperwork sorted out, looked into accommodation and the social aspects of your new town. What else do you need to know?

1. Accommodation is the most important aspect. Make sure that you choose somewhere that is near to your campus, but also near the shops and other facilities you will need. Some cities have student areas which can mean that prices are cheaper as there is lots of accommodation to choose from. You don't want to be isolate from your new friends.

2. Money is usually the biggest worry for students. Make sure that you budget properly, avoid using credit cards, and track all of your spending. Consider walking, using public transport or a bike rather as it'll be much cheaper than running a car.

3. See if you can get a job. Local shops, supermarkets, pubs, bars and restaurants are good places to start, and you may be able to find a job that relates to your course. A job can be invaluable to help you to afford your student lifestyle, and may even give you a chance to put what you've learning into practice.

4. Make sure that you have a computer and printer so that you don't have to rely on friends, or the computers at university. You might be able to get a cheap student deal, or buy second hand. You'll need to check that your student home has a broadband enabled phone line, or consider a more expensive mobile broadband package.

5. Find out about the area, so that you know where the local shops are, the bus routes and timetables, the pubs and bars and all the other important things you'll need to know. Now would be a good time to register with a doctor and dentist too.

6. Cheap nights out / in can be achieved by staying in, or going to friends' houses rather than going to pubs and clubs. There's nothing wrong with going out once a week, but every night will get expensive!

7. Cheap text books can be found inn many places such as student notice boards or from various internet sites. You don't need to buy brand new books, especially if you won't need them for very long. Don't rely on the library having enough though!

8. Get to know people and you'll have a much better time. Why not join groups that interest you, and try new sports and hobbies? If you've always wanted to rock climb, or fly, or learn French, now is the best time to try something different.

9. Don't forget to study! Although it's an obvious thing to say, you are at University to study, and whilst having a good time, and making the most of your new found freedom and responsibilities is all well and good, you won't be happy if you fail your exams.

10. Remember that you are what you eat. You can't expect to be able to study hard and party hard if you don't eat properly. By learning to cook now, before you go to university, you'll be able to fend for yourself, and not have to rely on friends, or ready meals and takeaways, which can be very expensive. Make sure that you have all the pots and pans you're likely to use, as well as the right tools and utensils to make cooking quick and easy. Being able to cook will save you time and money, and can help you to make friends too.

Now you know how you can prepare for your time at university, isn't it time you got organised?

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