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Being a student means mastering the art of living on a budget. Whether it’s stretching your last tenner until the next loan drop or trying to justify that extra coffee, saving money wherever possible can be tough. Luckily, Exeter is packed with discounts, deals and even the occasional freebie (yes, free food exists!).If you’re not already milking your student ID for all it’s worth, now’s the time. Here’s a roundup of the best spots, apps and tricks to help you save cash and still enjoy everything the city has to offer.
1. Where to Flash Your Student ID in Town
Your student card is basically a golden ticket to getting money off everything from meals out to clothing. Most chain restaurants offer student discounts during the week - Wagamama’s gives 20% off Sunday to Thursday, and Pizza Express offers 25% off Sunday to Friday. Always check UNiDAYS, Student Beans or do a quick search to see if there’s a deal.
UNiDAYS and Student Beans are essential to sign up for, showing loads of shops and restaurants that offer discounts - like Hollister, Urban Outfitters and Schuh. If fashion’s your thing, keep an eye out for Princesshay’s Student Night, usually in the first few weeks of term. Shops stay open late and offer extra discounts just for students.
If cafés and bars are more your vibe, many of Exeter’s smaller chains and independents offer student deals too. Coffee #1 gives 15% off when you download their app. Chococo (think Knoops-style, but maybe better!) offers 10% off. Bars like Bootleggers and Turtle Bay also run student nights - and if your society’s hosting a social, venues often throw in extra discounts just for the group!
2. Apps That Score You Freebies and Deals
Too Good To Go -
With Too Good To Go, you can grab ‘magic bags’ of unsold food from places like Starbucks, Pret, Greggs and local cafés. It’s great value - bags can be as cheap as £4.99 - and it helps cut down on food waste.
Olio -
Olio connects you with locals giving away free or cheap food and household items. You’ll be helping the environment and might even bag yourself a free dinner or snack.
Loyalty Apps -
Loyalty apps for chain cafés and restaurants are underrated lifesavers. Download your favourites - most give you a welcome freebie just for signing up, and you'll earn rewards every time you visit.
3. Other Budget Hacks and Free Food Finds
There is a Community Fridge outside the library in the Forum - it’s a great place to donate unused food or grab something someone else didn’t need.
Budgeting can definitely be a challenge, but you’re not on your own. Alongside University Wellbeing Services, the Guild also has an Advice Team who provide free, confidential support if money worries get a bit much.
Being a student in Exeter comes with access to some brilliant deals - all it takes is a few app downloads and a flash of your student card. Before you spend, take a second to check if there’s a discount. Chances are, there is - and future you(and your bank account) will definitely be grateful!