Being a student in the UK offers more than just an exciting academic journey — it also comes with some fantastic perks. If you’re a student living in the UK or moving here soon, this guide shows you how to take full advantage of the student discount programs available.
This will help you stretch your budget and make the most of your student life.
Why student discounts are worth using
As a student, every penny counts. Whether you need a new laptop for your studies, a meal out with friends, or some new clothes, student discounts can make a real difference. Many UK brands, retailers and services offer significant savings when you show proof of your student status.
Here’s how to unlock these savings and where to find the best deals.
UNiDAYS: instant access to discounts across major brands
UNiDAYS is one of the most popular platforms for student discounts in the UK. With a free account, you gain access to discounts across a range of sectors, including fashion, technology, health & fitness, and entertainment. Brands commonly featured include Apple, ASOS and Nike.
To access these offers, sign up with your university email at UNiDAYS, verify your student status, and start saving straight away.
Student Beans: discounts on food, travel and more
Student Beans offers a wide range of discounts for UK students, especially if you’re looking for deals on food, fashion and tech. The platform partners with both international and local brands, making it a useful tool for finding discounts specific to your city or region, with regular competitions and giveaways alongside the standard offers.
Find out more at Student Beans.
TOTUM: the student discount card
TOTUM (formerly the NUS Extra card) is the official student discount card backed by the National Union of Students. It comes with a small fee but offers a wide range of exclusive discounts both online and in-store, including travel, dining and retail offers. TOTUM also has an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) option, which can unlock discounts worldwide if you plan to travel.
Find out more at TOTUM.
Save the Student: money-saving tips and discount alerts
If you’re new to student discounts, Save the Student is a great resource for learning how to maximise your savings. The website features up-to-date discount listings, budgeting guides and money-saving tips tailored for students, covering retail, entertainment and travel, along with a weekly newsletter to keep you informed.
NUS: deals and offers from the National Union of Students
NUS is known for advocating for students, but it also has a dedicated section on discounts. While many of its discounts are now available through the TOTUM card, NUS remains a valuable resource for students who want to stay informed about exclusive offers, scholarships and financial advice, and works closely with other organisations to provide additional support such as mental health services and housing advice.
How to make the most of your student discounts
- Always have your student ID ready, whether it’s a physical card or digital verification through platforms like UNiDAYS or Student Beans.
- Check eligibility regularly, since some discounts are available for a limited time or come with specific terms and conditions.
- Sign up for newsletters to receive real-time offers and promotions.
- Follow brands on social media, as many run student-exclusive promotions there.
As a student in the UK, there’s no reason to pay full price for most of your everyday expenses. From tech and fashion to travel and food, student discounts are everywhere if you know where to look. Platforms like UNiDAYS, Student Beans, TOTUM and Save the Student can help make your money go further.
At Hallbookers, we help students find the right accommodation across the UK. You can browse options on our website and compare properties by city.
Frequently asked questions
How do I prove my student status for discounts?
You can sign up with your university email through platforms like UNiDAYS or Student Beans, or use a TOTUM card for in-store purchases.
Can international students get these discounts too?
Yes. As long as you’re enrolled in a UK institution, you can access the discounts available to all students, regardless of nationality.
Are student discounts available for part-time students?
In most cases, yes. As long as you’re officially enrolled in a course at a recognised institution, you should qualify for discounts.
Can mature students qualify for discounts?
Yes. If you’re a mature student enrolled in a recognised institution, you’re eligible for the same discounts as any other student, regardless of your age.
Do student discounts apply to online shopping?
Yes. Most student discount platforms, including UNiDAYS and Student Beans, offer discount codes that you can use at online checkout. Just make sure to enter the code before completing your purchase.
How long do student discounts last?
Most student discounts are valid as long as you’re enrolled in a university or college. Some may continue for a short period after graduation, but you’ll typically lose access once your student status expires.
Do I need to renew my student status to keep using discounts?
Yes, some platforms like UNiDAYS and Student Beans require you to verify your student status each academic year, to ensure only current students have access.
What’s the difference between UNiDAYS, Student Beans and TOTUM?
UNiDAYS and Student Beans are free online platforms that provide instant access to a wide range of student discounts. TOTUM, previously NUS Extra, is a paid student discount card that offers both online and in-store discounts, along with extras like international discounts through the ISIC option.
Can I use student discounts outside the UK?
Yes, with an ISIC card available through TOTUM, you can access student discounts in many countries worldwide, which is useful if you travel or plan to study abroad.
