A Smart Guide to UK Student Discounts
As an international student in the UK, managing high tuition fees, rent, and daily costs can quickly become stressful. However, many students overlook one powerful money-saving strategy: student discounts. These special offers apply to everything from public transport and grocery shopping to fashion, electronics, and subscription services. By tapping into the right platforms, flashing a valid student ID, and staying informed, students can save over £1,000 per year. This guide will walk you through exactly how to access and maximize those discounts so you can keep more money in your pocket without compromising your lifestyle.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to:
Unlock verified student discount platforms
Cut down on daily and travel costs with the right student ID
Get long-term savings on subscriptions and shopping
Maximize every benefit your student status offers
Let’s break it all down in practical, actionable steps.
What Are Student Discounts and Who Can Use Them?
Student discounts are exclusive price reductions or perks available to full-time students in the UK. These discounts are available online and in-store, across a wide range of categories—travel, technology, fashion, subscriptions, and more.
To qualify, you typically need:
Proof of full-time student status
A verified student email address
A digital or physical student ID from an approved provider
Top Platforms to Access UK Student Discounts
UNiDAYS
Offers student discounts on over 800 global and UK brands
Free with a university email
Sign up: myunidays.com
Student Beans
Discount access for students with fast verification
Free
Sign up: studentbeans.com
TOTUM
Official UK student discount card backed by the National Union of Students (NUS)
£14.99/year (includes ISIC)
Apply: totum.com
ISIC (International Student Identity Card)
Globally recognised card for international students
From £12/year
Apply: isic.org
Travel Discounts – Save Big on Transport Across the UK
Transportation is one of the biggest monthly costs for students, but also one of the easiest to cut.
National Rail – 16–25 Railcard
One-third off rail fares across the UK
16–25 years old or full-time students over 25
£30/year or £70 for three years
Apply: 16-25railcard.co.uk
Pro Tip: Link your Railcard to your Oyster card to save on London off-peak fares.
Local Transport – Student Oyster Card
For students studying in London
30% off Travelcards and Bus and Tram Passes
Apply: Transport for London
Long-Distance Coaches
National Express Young Persons Coachcard
One third off fares
£12.50/year
Site: nationalexpress.com
Megabus
Fares starting at £1 if booked in advance
Site: megabus.com
Shopping Discounts – Save on Clothes, Tech, Groceries
With the right strategy, your student ID can unlock discounts across everyday essentials.
Fashion and Clothing
ASOS: 10 to 20% off via UNiDAYS, Student Beans
H&M: 10% off via Student Beans
Boohoo: Up to 25% off via UNiDAYS
New Look: 10% off via Student Beans
Tech and Electronics
Apple: Up to 10% off via Apple Education Store
Samsung: Up to 25% off via UNiDAYS
Dell: Exclusive student deals via Student Beans
Bonus Tip: Some retailers offer freebies with student purchases, such as Microsoft 365 or antivirus software.
Groceries
TOTUM cardholders get 10% off at select Co-op stores
Use supermarket loyalty schemes like Tesco Clubcard, Lidl Plus, and Morrisons More
Subscription Discounts – Streaming, Learning and Entertainment
Cut your monthly subscriptions in half with student-specific rates.
Spotify Premium with Hulu: £5.99/month instead of £10.99
Apple Music Student: £5.99/month instead of £10.99
YouTube Premium: £6.99/month instead of £12.99
The Economist: 50% off selected subscriptions
Smart Move: Check if your university library includes access to platforms like JSTOR, Coursera, or LinkedIn Learning.
Bonus Deals – The Often-Missed Discounts
Cinema Tickets
Most major chains offer student pricing with a valid ID
Look for discount days like reduced-price Tuesdays
West End Theatre and Arts
Student rush tickets via TodayTix
Free entry to many museums like the Tate Modern and the British Museum
Gym Memberships
University gyms often offer the best value
Chains like PureGym offer rates from £10.99/month
Step-by-Step: Maximize Your Discounts from Day One
Sign Up Before You Arrive
Register for UNiDAYS, Student Beans, and TOTUM with your student email.
Download the Apps
Keep discount platforms, supermarket loyalty cards, and Railcard apps handy.
Stack Discounts
Combine student deals with cashback websites like Quidco or TopCashback.
Ask In Store
Always ask for student deals, even if not advertised.
Track Your Wins
Use budgeting apps to track savings. Aim for £50+ monthly.
Monthly Student Discount Savings – Example Breakdown
Travel: Without discount £120, With student deal £84, Savings £36
Shopping: Without discount £200, With student deal £160, Savings £40
Subscriptions: Without discount £30, With student deal £15, Savings £15
Total Monthly Savings: £91 Annual Savings: Over £1,000
Final Thoughts: Your Student ID Is a Budget Superpower
International students in the UK don’t need to pay more than necessary to enjoy a fulfilling student life. By making the most of student discounts on travel, shopping, subscriptions, and tech, you can significantly reduce your monthly spending and stretch your budget further. These savings don’t just help with essentials—they allow you to explore more, eat better, and invest in learning and wellbeing. Whether it's saving on a train ride or getting half off your favourite streaming service, every discount counts. Ready to make your entire student experience more affordable? Visit StudentTenant.com to browse trusted student accommodation options tailored to your budget and lifestyle.