How I get the Best Student Discounts in Edinburgh (And You Can Too!)

Moving to Edinburgh as a student? But don’t know how to get best student discounts in Edinburgh. Between the cobbled streets, buzzing student life, and endless food spots there’s a lot to love. But let’s be real: student life can be expensive. 

That’s why I want you to know more about student discounts in Edinburgh. From cheap eats to slashed bus fares, I’ve figured out how to make every penny count. Whether you’ve just moved into your student accommodation in Edinburgh, or you’re already knee-deep into universities life.  

Here’s my guide to saving smart and how you can do it too.  

1) Always Carry Your Student ID  

Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many forget. Many local cafes, museums, stores, and cinemas offer 10%–50% off just for flashing your ID. I once saved £3 on a pizza just by showing my card.  

 2)  Get a TOTUM Card - Your Holy Grail 

TOTUM (formerly NUS Extra) is the first thing I signed up for. 

Why?  It gets you discounts on: 

• Co-op groceries (10% off!) 

• Boots & Superdrug 

• ASOS (hello, student wardrobe) 

• Restaurants like PizzaExpress & Zizzi 

The card costs around £14.99/year, but the savings cover that fast trust me. 

Always ask at the till: “Do you accept TOTUM?” Some local shops do, even if it’s not advertised. 

3) Save on Coffee & Food Like a Pro 

Edinburgh has loads of student-friendly cafes-if you know where to look. 

My go-to spots with student discounts: 

• Black Medicine Coffee - 10% off with student ID 

• Union of Genius - Soups & salads, cheap and hearty 

• Greggs - Free sausage roll or doughnut with a student combo (yes, really) 

Also, check Too Good to Go - an app where restaurants sell leftover food cheap. I once got a £10 meal for £2.99. Game-changer. 

 4) Cheap Cinema Nights Are a Thing 

Want a movie night that doesn’t break the bank?  Here’s how I save: 

• Vue Cinema - £5.99 student tickets 

• Filmhouse - Offers student rates and indie films 

• Cineworld Unlimited Card - If you love movies, this one pays off quickly 

Just show your student ID at the counter and book online with the discount already applied. 

 5) Public Transport Perks 

Buses are your best friend here, especially the Lothian Buses.

Top savings: 

• Ridacard - Unlimited travel across buses and trams 

• Student monthly pass is £45 (vs. £60+ for non-students) 

• Day tickets - Just £3.40 for unlimited daily travel 

And yes, it works for night buses. Perfect for post-library rides or safe clubbing nights. 

6) Books, Stationery & Tech on a Budget 

Textbooks can cost a fortune, but here’s how I dodged full-price books: 

• Blackwell’s and Waterstones - Often have student deals or clearance 

• Library Access - Most universities have digital or free versions 

• HP, Dell, and Apple - Offer student pricing on laptops 

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Also, check Unidays or Student Beans-they show verified tech discounts across big brands. 

7) Fashion Finds Without the Guilt 

You don’t have to sacrifice style for savings.  Here’s how I keep my wardrobe fresh: 

• ASOS – 10% off student discount all year 

• H&M – Offers 20% off during student events 

• Thrift Shops – Try Armstrongs in Grass market or charity shops in Morningside 

Additionally, Vinted and Depop are ideal for second-hand steals. 

 8) Use These Must-Have Apps 

Okay, if you’re going to remember one thing, it’s this. Apps are equal to money saved. 

Download this right now: 

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• Unidays 

• Student Beans 

• Too Good To Go 

• Voucher Codes 

• Honey (browser extension) 

These apps automatically show you where to find student deals, cash back, or vouchers. 

9) Ask. Always. 

These sounds basic, but it works.

I always ask: 

Do you offer a student discount? At cafes, hair salons, shops or everywhere. You’d be surprised how many places do, but don’t advertise it. 

Even local barbers and vintage stores in Edinburgh often offer 10-15% off if you flash your ID. 

CONCLUSION 

Being a student in Edinburgh doesn’t mean you have to live on noodles and skip fun. With a little effort, you can enjoy the best of the city without emptying your wallet. Living in Edinburgh as a student can feel expensive, but with a bit of hustle. You can seriously stretch your budget. 

Keep your student ID handy, download the right apps, and never hesitate to ask for discounts. What starts as a few pounds saved here and there quickly adds up to hundreds over the course of the semester. 

So go ahead, treat yourself to that coffee, those cinema nights, and the occasional cheeky takeaway. Just make sure you’re doing it in a smart way. Live smart, spend wisely, and enjoy your student life to the fullest.