For university students on a budget, there are several excellent affordable camera options to consider. The Fujifilm X-S10 is a great all-around mirrorless camera that offers impressive image quality, in-body stabilization, and a fully articulating screen, all for around $1,000 with a kit lens. Another solid choice is the Canon EOS Rebel T100 (also known as the EOS 4000D), a budget-friendly DSLR that provides good value at its low price point.
For an even more affordable option, the Nikon D3500 is an excellent entry-level DSLR that can still be found new online, despite being discontinued. It offers great image quality and ease of use for beginner photographers. Mirrorless cameras like the Sony A6100 and Canon EOS M50 are also worth considering, as they provide the benefits of mirrorless technology in a relatively inexpensive package. Ultimately, the best camera for a university student will depend on their specific needs and budget, but these options provide a great balance of quality, features, and affordability.