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The Benefits of Having an NUS Card

For students across the United Kingdom, balancing academic commitments with the cost of living can be a real challenge. 

Whether it’s affording textbooks, groceries, or the occasional night out, budgeting is often a daily concern. Fortunately, the National Union of Students (NUS) offers a solution in the form of the NUS card – also known as the TOTUM card – which provides access to a wide range of discounts. 

In this feature, we’ll explore how this small, yet powerful, card can offer substantial benefits to students and make their lives more affordable.

What is the NUS Card?

The NUS card is a well-known staple for students in higher education, offering discounts across a variety of retailers and service providers. 

It’s designed to help students save on everything from essential purchases like groceries and textbooks to leisure activities and travel. 

With the financial pressures that many students face, having an NUS card can make a world of difference by allowing them to make their money go further.

Substantial Savings on Everyday Essentials

One of the primary benefits of the NUS card is the sheer variety of savings it offers. Students can use it to access discounts on daily essentials, like groceries, clothing, and school supplies. 

Many popular retailers, both online and on the high street, offer discounts for students with an NUS card. For example, major brands like Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft provide exclusive student deals on technology and study-related materials, helping students afford the tools they need to succeed in their studies. 

Furthermore, supermarkets such as Co-op also offer discounts on groceries, allowing students to cut costs on their weekly shop.

Enjoyment Without the Guilt: Lifestyle and Leisure Discounts

The NUS card isn’t just about saving on the essentials, though. It also provides access to a wide array of lifestyle and leisure discounts, making it easier for students to enjoy their downtime without breaking the bank. 

For instance, students can take advantage of discounted tickets at cinemas, like Odeon and Vue, reduced prices at popular restaurants, such as Pizza Express and Domino’s, and savings on travel services, including National Express and Trainline. 

This gives students the chance to enjoy their university experience, whether it’s socialising with friends or exploring new places, while keeping their budget in check.

Exclusive Offers for NUS Cardholders

Beyond these general savings, NUS cardholders also benefit from access to exclusive offers that are not available to the general public. 

Throughout the year, retailers and service providers frequently run promotions aimed specifically at students, providing even greater savings on top of existing discounts. 

These promotions often align with key academic milestones, such as the beginning of the school year or holiday breaks, ensuring students can take advantage of additional savings when they need them most.

International Benefits for the Global Student

Another key advantage of the NUS card is its international benefits. Students who travel abroad can use their NUS card to access discounts in over 130 countries, thanks to its integration with the International Student Identity Card (ISIC). 

Whether you’re taking a gap year, studying abroad, or simply travelling during the holidays, the card provides savings on travel, accommodation, and entertainment worldwide. 

This makes the NUS card a valuable companion for students with a passion for travel, allowing them to experience new cultures and destinations without stretching their budgets too thin.

How to Apply for an NUS Card

Applying for an NUS card is a straightforward process. Students can apply online via the TOTUM website, which serves as the home of the NUS card. 

The application process requires students to create an account using their student email address and provide some basic personal information, such as their name and the institution where they are studying. 

Once these details are submitted, students can choose between several membership options, including one-year, two-year, and three-year cards. The standard NUS card is affordably priced, with a one-year card costing around £14.99, and students can opt for longer memberships at a discounted rate.

After selecting their desired membership length, students are required to upload a passport-style photo of themselves, which will appear on the card, and complete the payment process. 

Finally, once the application is finalised, the card is sent directly to the student’s home address. The entire process is quick and simple, and students can start using their NUS card to access discounts as soon as it arrives.

Where Can You Use Your NUS Card?

The range of discounts available with an NUS card is extensive, covering everything from retail and technology to food, drink, and entertainment. For example, major fashion retailers like ASOS, Topshop, and New Look offer generous discounts to students, allowing them to stay on-trend without overspending. 

Technology companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and Lenovo provide student deals on laptops, software, and other tech essentials, ensuring students have the tools they need for their coursework. 

In addition, popular food and drink chains, including Costa Coffee and Co-op, offer discounts to NUS cardholders, helping them save on everyday purchases.

For students looking to stay active and healthy, the NUS card offers savings on gym memberships at popular fitness chains, like PureGym and The Gym Group. This makes it easier for students to maintain their physical and mental wellbeing, even on a tight budget. 

Furthermore, students who use public transport frequently can benefit from discounted fares on services such as National Express and Megabus, making travel more affordable.

Local businesses and smaller retailers often participate in the NUS card discount scheme as well, so it’s always worth checking with shops in your area to see if they offer student discounts. 

And lastly, it should be noted that the savings potential of the NUS card is vast, and students can take full advantage by regularly checking the TOTUM website or app for the latest deals and promotions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the NUS card is a must-have for any student looking to manage their finances effectively while enjoying their university experience. 

Whether you’re saving on essential items like groceries and textbooks or treating yourself to discounted leisure activities, the NUS card offers a practical way to make your student budget go further. 

With access to discounts at hundreds of retailers and service providers, as well as international savings through the ISIC, the NUS card is an investment that pays off in both convenience and value. For students who are conscious of their spending, the NUS card is an essential companion that enhances both their academic and social lives.