Hi,
Sorry there is no free parking in Canterbury. We live here, as well as being a student. We got rid of our car as there is no where to park. You won't travel by car to the uni, as it is so close. My first suggestion would be to leave the car at home. The second option is to try to get a parking ticket for one of the long term car parks in the 'outer' area. There is one on the Old Dover Road opposite the police station, Holmans Meadow, (I think). The council do cheaper rates for there, I think. But it could cost you £400 to £500 a term. When you eventually get into other accommodation make sure you get a place with a parking space with it. eg.10 St Stephen's Close. It comes with two parking places and is outside my window!!!
Good luck in finding a space. Uni is really bad for parking any longer than 2 hours, I think. North holmes Road is targetted by the parking officers and lots of yellow on windscreens. Parking on site is for disabled and staff.