The Knowledge
Being a student entitles you to a great range of perks, provided you know how to secure a bargain. Here are five ways to get the real deal.
1. Carry your student ID
You may be entitled to discounts on the price of a whole range of things, including concerts and theatre tickets. The same rule applies for entry to paid-for London attractions. The golden word to look for is ‘concessions’ (or ‘concs’) – because this translates as students pay less.
Carry your student ID with you at all times and also consider applying for a NUS Extra card, which costs £10 and is available from UELSU at our Docklands campus.
2. Apply for an Oyster
If you are a full-time student at UEL, or a part-time student on a programme lasting more than 14 weeks who receives a grant or the Access to Learning Fund, you can apply for a discounted Oyster Card.
This gives you big savings on travel around the capital, making it much easier for you to enjoy all the great free and cheap events on offer to students. Apply now.
3. Know where to look
Many bars, restaurants and venues have a specific student night or run regular student-focused promotions, which means discounts, two-for-one deals and other bargains.
You may hear about these through the grapevine, or via UELSU, and they are often advertised in the London free papers and through Time Out.
It’s also worth checking out dedicated student discount websites such as Student Beans and Student Discounts - which make it their business to see that your money goes further.
Don’t forget the Visit London website, which lists activities for Londoners as well as out-of-towners. You’ll find events and special promotions – and a useful London on a Budget section.
4. Go in a group
You’d be amazed at the bargains available if you consider visiting a theatre or attraction with a crowd of friends. Different venues have different rules, but often you just need nine other buddies to sign up and you qualify for a special rate.
It’s a bit more hassle to arrange, but there are often other benefits to group bookings, such as priority on seats and dates and even special tours – useful if you want tickets to the hottest show or exhibition or fancy a spot of VIP treatment.
5. Ask for student reductions
Even places that don’t advertise a student rate may be happy to give one, if you ask. Don’t be shy, because London is full of students and most places do want your business.
Carry proof that you are a UEL student and ask about discounts at negotiation stage (in other words, before you agree to hand over your money).
