Lifestyle

While doing a degree and moving away from home can be costly, there are numerous offers available to assist students in Belfast minimising their expenses during their studies.

As soon as you receive your student card, always remember to carry it with you. The majority of shops and restaurants will request to see your student ID before giving you a discount. Even if you're not sure, it's a good idea to ask about the availability of a student discount. Despite the fact that this may be a new thing for you and it might not feel right at first, the worst thing that can happen is that they say no, and the best thing that can happen is that you score a deal.

As a Student myself, I have pulled together this list to assist you in getting the best deals and discounts in Online Shopping, Transport and Eating Out. 

Transport

Whether your living at home or in student accommodation while you're doing your degree, travelling to and from your campus, transport will probably be your highest expense over the time of your studies. A study from "National Student Money Survey 2024" showed that students in Belfast's 3rd highest expense (excluding rent) was in fact transport. 

Although, this is where the "Translink yLink Card" comes in handy. With the smartcard, students aged between 16 and 23 get 50% off bus and rail travel, as well as up to 50% off Enterprise fares for up to eight years. 

Also worth noting that full-time students aged 24 and over are also eligible for discounts through Translink's 24+ Student Railcard. It's valid for one year and will knock a third off bus and train travel, and, like the yLink card, you can get up to 50% off Enterprise fares. 

You can apply through the attached link and best of all the card is FREE! 

Apply Here 

Online Shopping

UniDays is a must for any student's phone. When you are in full-time or part time education you can set up a UniDays account simply by logging in with your verified Belfast Met email. With this account you can download the app and access discount codes of up to 50% off and offers across loads of different companies and brands.

Before I make any online purchase, I always check UniDays - you'll be surprised just how many companies offer a discount through this. Also, you can use your UniDays ID in-store as a substitute for a student card if you forget your Belfast Met Student card too.

Eating Out

Make the most of the apps mentioned previously such as Unidays, Student Beans or Totum, as they can have some amazing deals not just on tech and clothes but also supermarkets. It is important to look after your health while studying so buying foods from Asda & Sainsburys with an up to 50% Discount on selected foods and it gives you the chance to cook from home which is a much better alternative to junk food.

Remember to factor in your class schedule and extracurricular activities. You may prevent food waste and those unneeded trips to the vending machine by planning ahead for meals and snacks. If you can go to the grocery store with a comprehensive list of everything you'll need, it will also save you a tonne of time. Purchasing a set of high-quality meal prep containers has a significant impact. When you're on the go, they'll keep your food organised, portable, and fresh. 

Even though you might not have the money to eat out frequently, you can save some money when you do treat yourself because there are so many restaurants and takeaway options. Pizza at Domino's is discounted by 35–50%. Additionally, you can take advantage of Greggs' student pricing to receive a free sausage roll or sweet treat.