Getting a student discount card is usually straightforward. If your school provides one, you’ll likely get it as part of your student fees. Some digital discount programs, like UNiDAYS or Student Beans, offer free memberships once you verify your student status with your school email.
For physical cards, you might need to apply through your school or a specific program. Some banks also offer student bank accounts that come with a student ID card.
Further, these cards can give you discounts at various stores, online retailers, and even for travel. Just check with your school, online platforms, or local banks to see what options are available to you.
Who Qualifies For Student Discount Cards?
Student discount cards are typically available to students currently enrolled in educational institutions such as high schools, colleges, or universities. To qualify, students usually need to present a valid student ID issued by their educational institution to prove their enrollment status.
Age restrictions may apply, often targeting students within a certain age range, such as 16 to 25 years old. While some programs may extend discounts to both full-time and part-time students, others may have specific eligibility criteria regarding enrollment status.
Additionally, student discount cards may have expiration dates or require renewal each academic year. They need to review the specific terms and conditions of each program to ensure eligibility and take advantage of the discounts offered.
How to Get a Student Discount Card?
To obtain a student discount card, the process typically varies depending on the provider but generally involves a brief application to confirm your enrollment status and study details. Here’s a simplified guide using Totum as an example:
- Visit the provider’s website, such as totum.com, and locate the option to “Get Your Card.”
- Provide your email address and verify it.
- Input information about your educational institution.
- Enter specifics about your course, including its duration and discipline.
- Select the type of card you desire and any additional features.
- Upload a recent photo of yourself for identification purposes.
- Enter your personal information as required.
- Complete the payment process to acquire the card.
How To Get A Student Discount Card For Free?
To obtain a student discount card for free, there are several avenues you can explore, each offering different methods of verification and access to discounts:
Digital Discount Apps
Utilize free digital membership options provided by discount programs like UNiDAYS and Student Beans. These platforms typically require you to verify your student status using your university email address.
Once verified, you can access a wide range of discounts through their respective apps or websites. While these options may not offer physical cards, they provide convenient access to discounts via digital means.
Bank Promotions
Some banks offer free student ID cards as part of their student bank account packages. Research specific offers from banks in your area to see if they provide this benefit.
Further, these student bank accounts often come with additional perks such as interest-free overdrafts, making them a valuable option for managing finances during your studies.
University Discounts
Check if your university offers its own student discount cards that provide access to local deals. Many universities have partnerships with local businesses to offer exclusive discounts to students. These cards may be available for free or at a nominal cost through your university’s student services department.
Free Trials
Keep an eye out for student discount cards that offer free trial periods. While these cards may have paid memberships, you can take advantage of the free trial to access discounts without any upfront cost.
Lastly, to prevent any charges, just don’t forget to cancel before the trial expires.
How Much Is A Student Discount Card?
The cost of obtaining a student discount card can vary depending on the type of card and the benefits it offers. University ID cards, typically included in student fees, are often provided to students at no additional charge.
Similarly, some digital student discount cards, such as UNiDAYS and Student Beans, offer free memberships with access to discounts through their apps or websites.
However, there are also student discount cards that come with a cost. For example, the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) may require an upfront fee ranging from $10 to $20 USD.
Additionally, certain retail or bank-issued student discount cards may have annual fees, which can amount to $50 USD or more. These cards may offer additional perks and benefits, such as exclusive discounts or rewards programs, which can justify the annual fee for some students.
Ultimately, the choice between a free or paid student discount card depends on individual preferences and specific benefits. It’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option before deciding.
Discount Cards A Quick Summary
Student discount cards offer various ways for students to save money on purchases ranging from clothing and technology to travel and entertainment. Here’s a quick summary of some popular options:
Totum Card (formerly NUS card)
It provides access to discounts from over 350 major brands. There are different versions available, including a free Totum Student card and a paid Totum Student+ card. The paid version offers additional benefits such as exclusive offers and a free tastecard, making it a valuable option for students looking to save money on a variety of purchases.
University Student ID Card
This card is issued by universities and typically includes the student’s photo, name of the university, and possibly the start year of their studies. Besides serving as identification on campus, many stores and establishments accept it as a form of student discount card, enabling students to save money on purchases.
International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
The ISIC card grants students access to discounts internationally, with thousands of benefits and discounts available in numerous countries. It’s particularly useful for students who travel frequently or study abroad, as it offers discounts on accommodation, food, and various other services.
UNiDAYS
UNiDAYS is a widely popular student discount platform that offers both online and in-store discounts. Unlike traditional discount cards, UNiDAYS operates through a mobile app rather than a physical card.
Moreover, students can download the UNiDAYS app and register using their academic email address to gain access to a wide range of discounts. The app showcases offers from leading brands across various categories such as fashion, beauty, technology, and more.
Discounts typically range from 10% to 50% off, depending on the store and promotion. Students can conveniently redeem these discounts by showing their UNiDAYS profile at the checkout either online or in participating stores. UNiDAYS membership is available to students over 16 years old studying at universities, sixth forms, or colleges in the UK.
16-25 Railcard
Designed for students aged 16 to 25 or those over 25 in full-time study, the 16-25 Railcard offers a 1/3 discount on train fares. This card is particularly beneficial for students who frequently travel by train for commuting or leisure purposes, helping them save significantly on travel expenses.
18+ Student Oyster Card
The 18+ Student Oyster Card is an essential tool for students living and studying in London, offering substantial savings on transportation costs. With this card, students aged 18 or over enrolled in full-time or part-time courses can enjoy a 30% discount on adult-rate travel cards, bus, and tram tickets .
To be eligible, students must be living in London during term-time. Applying for the 18+ Student Oyster Card involves a £20 administration fee, and applicants are required to provide a recent photo of themselves.
Once obtained, the card can be used to top up credit and travel seamlessly across London’s public transportation network, making commuting to university or exploring the city more affordable for students.
Student Debit Card
While not a traditional discount card, student bank accounts often come with perks like interest-free overdrafts, which can help students manage their finances effectively without incurring additional debt.
Tesco Clubcard
It is a loyalty program that offers students a way to earn points on their purchases at Tesco stores, one of the UK’s largest supermarket chains. With every purchase made using the Clubcard, students accumulate points that can later be redeemed for discounts or vouchers.
Points can be collected not only on groceries but also on fuel, clothing, and other eligible purchases at Tesco. Additionally, it has partnerships with over 100 brands and companies, allowing Clubcard holders to exchange their points for rewards such as dining out, entertainment, travel, and more.
This makes it a versatile tool for students to save money not only on essentials but also on various experiences and treats.
Nectar Card
Similar to Tesco Clubcard, Nectar allows students to collect points on purchases from various retailers and redeem them for discounts or vouchers, offering additional opportunities to save money.
Student Beans
It is a discount platform specifically tailored for students, offering savings on a wide range of products and services both online and in-store. Students can sign up for a Student Beans account and gain access to exclusive discounts on items such as clothing, electronics, food, and entertainment.
iscounts can be redeemed using a physical discount card in-store or by applying promo codes at online checkout. Additionally, students can install the Student Beans Chrome extension, which notifies them of available deals while browsing online stores.
With discounts available from leading brands and retailers, Student Beans provides students with opportunities to save money on their favorite products and services, helping them make the most of their budgets while enjoying
Where Can You Get A Student Discount?
Students can access discounts at a variety of places, both in-store and online. Brick-and-mortar retailers on high streets often offer student discounts, requiring students to show a valid student ID card at checkout.
Additionally, restaurants and cafes frequently provide discounts on meals and beverages to students who present their student ID. Major online retailers extend student discounts through digital verification platforms like UNiDAYS or Student Beans, enabling students to save on online purchases.
Further, technology companies such as Apple and Microsoft offer student discounts on electronics and software, typically accessible through the company’s education store.
Students can save money on various things besides shopping and eating out. Places where you have fun, like cinemas or museums, often give discounts to students if you show your student ID.
Moreover, when you travel, there are special cards like the student Oyster card in London or the 16-25 Railcard for trains that give you cheaper fares. Even when you’re at home, subscription services like Spotify or Amazon Prime might offer you a cheaper deal if you’re a student.
And don’t forget local stores and businesses they might have student discounts too, making it easier for you to save money on lots of stuff and have a great time!
FAQ’s
How do I get my student discount?
To get a student discount, check for signs at the checkout, in shop windows, or on websites of retailers. You can also use the student discount search feature on websites like Save the Student to find eligible discounts both in-store and online.
Are student discount cards free?
Yes, typically, your university ID card serves as your free student discount card. It will have your photo, university name, and possibly the starting year of your studies printed on it.
Final Words
Getting a student discount card is a great way to save money on purchases both in-store and online. Whether it’s through your school, digital verification platforms, or student bank accounts, these cards offer discounts on a wide range of products and services.
By taking advantage of these opportunities, students can stretch their budgets further and enjoy more of what they love without breaking the bank. So, don’t forget to explore the options available to you and start enjoying the perks of being a student!
