Car finance
for students

Types of student car finance deals

Hire purchase

Hire Purchase (HP) is a popular car finance option for students looking to buy a new or used car. With HP, you pay a deposit upfront and then make fixed monthly repayments over an agreed period. Once all fixed monthly payments are made, including the option to purchase fee, ownership of the vehicle transfers to you.

This straightforward arrangement allows students to budget effectively, spreading the cost of the car over manageable instalments. At the end of the term, you have the choice to take full ownership of the vehicle.

Personal contract purchase

If you're a student looking for a car finance option with lower monthly fees, consider Personal Contract Purchase (PCP). PCP is a popular choice among students because it typically offers more affordable and manageable monthly payments compared to Hire Purchase (HP).

With PCP, you don't automatically own the car at the end of the term. Instead, you have flexibility: you can either pay a fee based on the guaranteed future value to own the car outright, return the car, or upgrade to a new vehicle.

PCP allows you to budget effectively with lower monthly payments while retaining the option to decide what to do at the end of the car finance agreement. It's a flexible choice for students who want to drive a newer car without the commitment of full ownership.

Personal Loans

If you're considering alternative options to car finance as a student, personal loan from banks or lenders could be a viable choice. With a personal loan, you can borrow a specific amount to finance your car purchase, subject to your creditworthiness and the lender's criteria.

Personal loans offer flexibility and can be used to buy both new and used cars. However, it's important to ensure you meet the lender's requirements, including having a reliable income and a good credit profile.

Consider car finance with a guarantor if you are a student

If you're a student with little or no credit history, or if you have a poor credit record, car finance with a guarantor could be the solution for you. A guarantor is someone who agrees to make car finance payments and take on the responsibility of repaying the finance if you're unable to meet the payments.

Having a guarantor strengthens your application and gives lenders confidence to approve your student car finance, even if your credit history isn't strong. This arrangement involves a contractual obligation for the guarantor, so it's important to discuss this option with them before proceeding.

Student car finance with bad credit from CarFinance!

Are you a student with little credit history or a low credit score? CarFinance understands that many young drivers haven't had a chance to build strong credit yet.

Even if you have bad credit, we're here to help you get the best student car finance deal possible. Our aim is to make car ownership easy and accessible for students and young people like you.

With CarFinance, we offer specialised options that take your situation into account. Let us assist you in navigating bad credit car finance confidently. Contact us today to discuss your options and start driving your own car!

What car should you buy as a student?

As a university student though, it's wise to consider a car that's affordable to buy and maintain. Look for reliable models with good fuel efficiency and low insurance costs. Used cars can be a great option, offering good value for money.

Here are some examples of car makes and models that are popular among students:

• Ford Fiesta: A compact and reliable hatchback known for its affordability and low running costs.
• Volkswagen Polo: Another popular choice offering quality, comfort, and good fuel efficiency.
• Honda Civic: A versatile option with a reputation for reliability and strong resale value.
• Toyota Yaris: Compact, efficient, and easy to manoeuvre, ideal for city driving.
• Hyundai i20: Affordable and feature-packed, offering good value for money.

These models typically have lower insurance premiums and are fuel-efficient, making them practical choices for students. Contact CarFinance to discuss financing options for these or other suitable vehicles!

How to get car finance as a student?

1. Build a credit profile

Start by establishing credit with a student credit card or loan, using it responsibly to demonstrate reliability. This builds a positive credit history, enhancing eligibility for the best car finance deals.

2. Have a part-time job

Having a part-time job with a regular income makes you more appealing to lenders. Demonstrating consistent earnings increases your chances of approval for car finance. Balancing work with studies may be challenging, but the financial and personal benefits are worthwhile.

3. Understand your budget

Understanding your budget is essential for securing student car finance. Here's why:

• Assess affordability: Lenders consider your financial situation to determine if you can afford the loan.
• Avoid disappointment: Realistically evaluating your budget prevents disappointment later on.
• Consider additional costs: Factor in expenses like road tax, insurance, fuel, and maintenance when planning your purchase.

By understanding your monthly budget more thoroughly, you can choose a car that fits your financial circumstances without any surprises.

4. Save for a deposit

Setting aside money for a deposit improves your credibility with lenders. A larger deposit reduces the amount you need to to secure student car finance,, resulting in lower interest rates and charges. Start saving early to strengthen your car finance application and potentially secure better loan terms.