How much to save for start of term?

[AwayYouGo]

Still a couple of years away yet, but DD is keen to go away to university. We are a very low income family, she would be entitled to maximum loan and will need to get a job, but obviously can't do that until she gets there. How much do people think would be needed for the start of term, just in case the loan is delayed? I know accomodation has to be paid for in advance, but it is hard to know all the extra costs.
We are trying to add to savings now, but it won't be a lot and I am worried that DD's options will be really limited by not being able to pay upfront costs.

Some private rental accommodation requires rent up-front, but most university-owned halls schedule rent to line up with maintenance grant loans. In the spring of her Y13, your DD should try meet the 'early' deadline for student finance, which guarantees that the loan will arrive on time. It's only people who miss that deadline that might have problems.

However, having one or two month's rent saved up would be a good idea anyway if deposits are needed. What that is varies a lot between cities and it should probably be one of the factors that your DD considers when picking universities!

She can work now during A levels and over hols. Eg summer after A level they have 3 months to work full time and build a bigger to pay accommodation. DD’s grammar 6th form recommend no more than 10 hours a week term time.

edited by MNHQ, at the request of the OP.

Some jobs transfer too so a big advantage to already be working rather than having to job hunt at uni eg fast food or supermarkets.

She is desperately trying to find a job, applying for all kinds. She has a couple of years experience volunteering so is definitely not workshy, it's just tricky finding that first paid job

@PhotoDad thanks, that is reassuring re halls fees lining up with student loans

Good luck. It gets easier once 16. Mine works at McDonald’s has found it flexible and pays £8.40 at 16 and 17.
If she has any skills life football ref for junior matches or lifeguard that pays well.

Sorry massive typo should be 10 hours max

A friends son took a gap year, worked all shifts offered at local Sainsbury's and managed to save £10k, even after travelling around the UK for a month. It gave him a nice cushion for start of uni.

DD works in McDonald's as a school leaver. She saves half of her wage and will do for the next two years. She has no expenses so I think that's reasonable. I expect her to have several thousand pounds by the time she starts University. Ten hours per week (she's currently doing a lot more) allows her to save £160 a month minimum.
They've told her it'll be easy to get a job in a local branch when she moves but also to work here when she's back for holidays or even weekends. So far they seem an excellent employer for a student.

@AwayYouGo we've now edited your post, as requested. Hope that avoids any possible confusion.