THOUSANDS of students across Merseyside are preparing to begin their university or college journey this month, but research shows many are already worried about money. 

Stagecoach data reveals that half of students fear not having enough money for essentials, while UCAS insights confirm that 58% are concerned about managing their finances once they arrive on campus. With travel costs taking up as much as half of student budgets, bus travel is proving a lifeline.  

The Stagecoach Merseyside Plus UniRider, which can be bought via the Stagecoach app, is a flexible student bus pass that gives cheaper travel anywhere throughout Merseyside and Chester. From just £1.10 a day, the ticket is available to students and employees who attend the University of Liverpool, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool John Moores University and University of Chester.   

By paying less for travel, students can free up money for socialising, experiences and enjoying student life to the fullest. 

Simon Tramalloni, Interim Operations Director at Stagecoach Merseyside, said:- “Students are increasingly feeling the financial pinch. We’re seeing more and more students having to work alongside their studies to make ends meet, with others scaling back on social activities, club involvement and travel. Transitioning to further education is an incredibly exciting, once-in-a-lifetime experience, which is why we want to make the journey easier and more affordable for today’s students. Funding your studies, finding the best way to commute and learning to budget are all part of the transition to university and there are many underrated ways to save money on the things that can sometimes cost a lot.” 


Students under pressure 

Stagecoach’s research shows:- 

• 74% of students say most of their study involves classroom-based learning – but almost half (44%) have reduced time on campus to cut costs
• Nearly 1/3 say travel accounts for between 25%–50% of their total expenditure 
• Almost 3/5 (59%) are missing out on socialising, 44% are skipping family visits, and 38% are no longer taking part in sports because of travel costs
• Parents are also stepping in to help, with 40% contributing to daily commuting and 55% funding trips home 

Bus travel beats the cost of a car 

For a student, it can cost around £4,000 per year to run a car, including fuel, insurance and repairs – roughly £328 per month. By comparison, the Stagecoach Merseyside Plus UniRider offers peace of mind to parents and guardians, providing affordable and safe travel for their loved ones. The one ticket provides unlimited bus travel at any time on any Stagecoach bus service throughout Liverpool, Wirral and Chester. 

Simon added:- “The UniRider ticket allows students to get to lectures, jobs, sports clubs, and social events without worrying about costs adding up. It’s flexible, greener, and designed to help students focus on studying – not stressing about how to get from A to B.” 

More than just lectures 

Stagecoach is encouraging students to make the most of their time at university – and their new surroundings. From getting to sports matches and societies to exploring towns and cities across Merseyside, free bus travel means students can experience the full breadth of student life without financial strain. 

With Stagecoach’s mobile app providing journey planning, live updates and ticketing, students can navigate their new city or town with confidence. 

Start by checking out your local options with Stagecoach at their website.