'One of the best things about studying in the UK is the student discounts. You can live inexpensively in the UK, but your money goes a lot further when you’re an international student. You’ll find student discounts on everything from books, music and fashion to movies and eating out. '
NUS Extra card for international students
When you begin life in the UK as an international student, a great way to save money is with an NUS Extra card. If you are 16 or over and study at a NUS affiliated UK institution, you can purchase an NUS Extra card for £11. You’ll find student discounts on most things including:
- Books and stationery
- Music and DVDs
- Clothing and fashion
- Food and drink
- Cinema and eating out
You can get access to a range of exclusive deals, competitions and prize draws with your NUS Extra card, including the chance win limited edition prints and even drive sports cars around a racetrack. You can also upgrade to include the International Students Identity Card (ISIC) for only £1.99 extra. The ISIC offer student discounts in over 140 countries worldwide, so you could use it back at home during holidays.
To find out what student discounts are available and how to apply, visit the NUS Extra website. (http://www.nus.org.uk/en/NUS-Extra/)
International student money saving tips
How much money you spend while you study in the UK depends on your lifestyle. If you go to the cinema every week, dine in expensive restaurants and make regular trips to the theatre, your student finances will soon diminish. If you take advantage of entertainment arranged by your UK institution and student societies - or if you just meet up with friends to share meals - your student budget will go further.
Most UK universities have a student cinema, nightclub, theatre and other entertainment available. The cost is usually much less than similar entertainment off-campus.
You should also take advantage of the many student discounts available in the UK. Even if it’s not advertised, it’s worth asking if there’s a discount for students at any shop, theatre, cinema, museum or gallery you go to. To take advantage of these, you will usually need to prove membership of the National Union of Students (NUS).
To find details of UK student discounts and offers visit the Student Beans website.
You can also find a top ten of things to do free in the UK on the Visit Britain website.
Useful Links
NUS Extra - (www.nus.org.uk/en/NUS-Extra)
Student Beans - (www.studentbeans.com)
Visit Britain - (www.visitbritain.co.uk)
