As university students in the UK, finding ways to save money is essential. With the high cost of tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, every penny saved counts. Luckily, there are numerous discounts and deals available specifically for students that can help alleviate some of the financial burdens. By taking advantage of these offers, students can stretch their budgets further and make their university experience more affordable and enjoyable.
Maximizing Student Discounts
One of the best pieces of advice for students looking to save money is to always carry their student ID card with them. Most retailers and service providers accept various forms of student identification, such as UNiDAYS, Student Beans, or Totum cards. In some cases, simply presenting an email confirming student status may be enough to qualify for a discount. If it’s not clear whether a particular establishment offers a student discount, don’t hesitate to ask – you might be pleasantly surprised.
Major Retailers Offering Discounts
Some of the biggest names in retail offer discounts specifically tailored to university students. For instance, Amazon Prime provides a free six-month trial for students, followed by a 50% discount on the subscription fee. Music lovers can enjoy one month of Spotify Premium for free, with a reduced monthly rate of £5.99 thereafter. Apple offers special deals on laptops and iPads, often including gift cards with purchases, as well as a 20% discount on AppleCare. Microsoft provides a 10% discount on laptops, Microsoft 365, and the latest version of Windows. Boots offers a 10% discount on thousands of products with an Advantage Card.
UNiDAYS, Student Beans, and Totum are popular platforms that offer a wide range of discounts to students. Signing up for these services is usually free, and students can generate discount codes to use at checkout. Some of the best bargains available through these platforms include 30% off 12-month memberships at The Gym Group, discounts on meal kit services like Hello Fresh, free delivery on orders from Deliveroo Students, and savings on items like food on the move at M&S. Duolingo even offers a two-month free trial for students looking to learn a new language, while Not on the High Street provides a 10% discount for decorating student halls rooms.
Additional Ways to Save as a Student
In addition to the discounts offered by major retailers and online platforms, there are other ways for students to save money during their university years. One option is to take advantage of student pricing on public transportation, such as discounted bus and train fares. Many cities and towns in the UK offer special rates for students, making it more affordable to get around.
Another way to save money as a student is to shop smart when it comes to groceries and household items. Buying in bulk, shopping at discount stores, and using coupons can all help stretch a student’s budget further. Meal planning and cooking at home rather than eating out can also result in significant savings over time.
For students living in university accommodation, it’s worth exploring options for reducing energy costs. Simple changes like turning off lights when not in use, unplugging electronics, and using energy-efficient appliances can all help lower utility bills. Some universities also offer tips and resources for students to be more environmentally friendly and save money on utilities.
When it comes to entertainment, students can often find discounted tickets to events, movies, and shows through their university or local student union. Many venues offer student pricing, so it’s worth checking for deals before making plans. Additionally, streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime often have special student rates that can help students save on entertainment costs.
Overall, being a savvy student shopper involves being proactive, doing research, and taking advantage of the resources available. By seeking out discounts, utilizing student services, and making smart choices with spending, students can make their university experience more affordable and enjoyable. Remember, every pound saved adds up in the long run, so don’t hesitate to take advantage of all the discounts and deals available to you as a student in the UK.