Skip to main content

We certainly don’t need to convince our members that handling finances as a student can be stressful, even in ideal circumstances. Balancing coursework, part-time work, and future plans can make money matters feel even more complicated, and our members are working with students daily to support them to safeguard their financial futures, and develop their financial wellbeing.

We are absolutely delighted to have joined forces with the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit, Trading Standards Scotland, and the Scottish Universities Community Bank to create the Students’ Good Guide to Credit.

The Students’ Good Guide to Credit has been created to help students build confidence in managing their money and to ensure they have clear, trustworthy information at their fingertips. Within the guide, students will find practical advice on borrowing responsibly, understanding credit terms, avoiding high‑cost or illegal lenders, and knowing where to turn when they need help. They’ll also find information on affordable credit options, mental health support, consumer rights, and digital safety—tools that can empower them to make informed decisions now and in the future.

NASMA are calling on our Scottish members to get involved and support the campaign by sharing the messaging with students on campuses across Scotland and encouraging all members to dip into the resource for ideas that can be utilised across other regions of the UK.

Download the guide from here.

“Working collectively across the sector is key to giving students the reliable information and practical support they need to understand credit and make informed financial decisions. NASMA are thrilled to bring our expertise to the table, and to continue our longstanding partnership with the Scottish Illegal Money Lending Unit to create the Students’ Good Guide to Credit.

We are grateful to Louise Reid, NASMA’s Financial Capability Champion, for leading on this project and helping to create this powerful tool for helping students confidently navigate borrowing, avoid harm, and build financial resilience.”

— Kellie McAlonan, NASMA Chair