How to Get a Free Student ID Card in the UK
September 13, 2024
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Being a student comes with plenty of perks, but you might not know that one of the biggest tools in your academic arsenal is your student ID card. It’s not just a basic identification document—it’s your golden ticket to a world of benefits, both on and off campus. From discounts on books, electronics, and clothing to easier access to campus facilities, a student ID card can make your life easier (and cheaper).
But if you don’t already have a student ID card, no worries! In this guide, we’re going to show you how you can get one, even for free, in the UK. Plus, we’ll explain all the awesome benefits that come with having your student ID card in hand.
Let’s dive right in.
What Exactly Is a Student ID Card?
A student ID card is your proof of being a legitimate student at your school, college, or university. Think of it as your official membership card to your educational institution, and it typically includes:
- Your name
- Your photo
- Your student ID number
- Your institution’s name
- Your enrolment status
Some institutions even include a QR code on the card, which links directly to your student profile. As technology evolves, many student ID cards are becoming multifunctional, allowing you to use them to access online student portals, reserve library books, and more.
If you’re studying at a UK institution, or even through an e-learning platform like Institute of Beauty & Makeup, you’re entitled to one of these cards.
Who Can Qualify for a Student ID Card?
In the UK, anyone aged 12 or older and enrolled in an educational institution is eligible for a student ID card. Whether you’re attending a traditional school, college, or an online learning platform, as long as you’re a student, you qualify.
Why Do You Need a Student ID Card?
You might be wondering, “Why do I even need a student ID card?”
Great question! Your student ID card is more than just a form of identification. It comes with a host of advantages, like:
Identification: It helps prove your student status in various situations, especially when you’re accessing services on campus or getting student discounts.
Security and Safety: Student ID cards also serve as a security measure, ensuring only authorized individuals can access your campus or educational facility.
Access to Facilities and Services: Most student ID cards double as access cards for facilities like libraries, gyms, computer labs, and residence halls. All you need is a quick swipe or scan, and you’re good to go.
Student Discounts: This is one of the best reasons to get your student ID card! Show your card at participating stores, restaurants, cinemas, and other places to enjoy student discounts.
Proof of Enrolment: Your student ID card can also serve as official proof of enrolment, which is essential for opening a student bank account, applying for student loans, or getting special student rates on services.
(However, at Institute of Beauty & Makeup, we also offer Enrolment letters for all our learners for free!)
How to Get a Free Student ID Card in the UK
So, now that you know why you need a student ID card, let’s get down to how you can actually get one—for free.
At Institute of Beauty & Makeup, the process is simple, fast, and completely online. In fact, it only takes a few minutes to apply for your free student ID card, and you don’t have to pay a penny for the card itself (though delivery fees may apply if you’re outside the UK).
Here’s the step-by-step process:
1. Enrol in a Course
The first thing you need to do is enrol in one of the courses offered by Institute of Beauty & Makeup. Whether it’s a paid course (Ex. Diploma in Nail Technician Level 5 , Makeup Artist Training) or a free course if available, this will give you student status, which you can then use to apply for your Student ID card. Institute of Beauty & Makeup offers a wide range of courses, from Beauty & Makeup, Nail Art, Skincare, & Fasion.
2. Enter Your Personal Information
After enrolling, you’ll need to enter your personal details. This includes basic info like your name, email address, phone number, and date of birth. You’ll also need to upload a passport-sized photo of yourself. Make sure it’s clear and appropriate for an ID card.
3. Choose Your Delivery Method
Next, you’ll choose how you want your student ID card delivered. If you’re in the UK, you can opt for UK Delivery. If you’re abroad, you have the option of International Standard or International DHL Express delivery.
4. Submit Your Order
Once all your details are in place, hit the submit button, and your student ID card will be processed. If you’re outside the UK, you’ll need to cover the shipping fee, but there’s no charge for the card itself.
5. Receive Your Student ID Card
Now, all you have to do is wait for your card to arrive! Once it’s in your hands, you’ll have access to the full range of benefits that come with it.
Get Your Free Student ID Card
The Benefits of Having a Student ID Card
Getting your student ID card is easy, but the perks don’t stop there. Here’s why having a student ID card is one of the best things you can do as a student:
1. Discounts Galore!
With a student ID card, you’re entitled to a wide array of discounts on everyday purchases, big-ticket items, and even transportation. Stores, restaurants, and service providers across the UK offer student discounts. For example, you could get 10%-20% off at places like Apple, ASOS, or Nando’s just by showing your student ID.
2. Easy Access to Campus Facilities
Your student ID card is your key to unlocking campus resources. Whether you need to check out books from the library, hit the gym, or even print your assignments, your ID card will give you quick and easy access.
3. Eligibility for Student Services
Many student services require proof of enrolment, and your ID card is the perfect way to provide it. From career advice to student loans, your card can open doors to a wide range of student-only services.
4. Travel Discounts
Public transport can be pricey, especially for students. Fortunately, many bus, rail, and airline companies offer discounts to students with a valid student ID card. For example, you can get discounted train tickets or reduced fares on National Express coaches.
What to Do If You Lose Your Student ID Card
Losing your student ID card isn’t the end of the world, but it can be a hassle. If you lose your card, or if it’s stolen, most educational institutions will allow you to apply for a replacement. Depending on the institution’s policy, you might need to pay a small fee for the replacement.
At Institute of Beauty & Makeup, you can easily request a replacement student ID card online if necessary. Just make sure to report the lost or stolen card as soon as possible to prevent any potential misuse.
Get Your Free Student ID Card
Other Student Discount Cards You Should Know About
While your student ID card is a powerful tool, there are also other student discount cards that can take your savings to the next level. Here are some popular ones you might want to consider:
1. International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
This is the only globally recognized student ID card. It’s valid in over 130 countries and gives you access to more than 150,000 discounts worldwide. In the UK, it costs about £15 for a physical card or £12 for a digital one.
2. NUS Extra Card
The NUS Extra card (now known as TOTUM) is another excellent option for UK students. It offers discounts on everything from food and travel to tech and clothing. Prices start at £13 for one year, with longer membership options available.
3. UNiDAYS
Unlike the others, UNiDAYS is completely free! You just need to sign up with your student email and you’ll have instant access to discounts from brands like Nike, Boohoo, and more.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Get Your Free Student ID Card Today
A student ID card is more than just a piece of plastic. It’s your passport to a range of benefits, from discounts on everyday items to easier access to campus resources. Best of all, getting one doesn’t have to cost you a penny if you apply through Institute of Beauty & Makeup.
If you haven’t already, now’s the time to take advantage of everything a student ID card has to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Apply for your free student ID card today and start enjoying the perks of being a student!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Easy peasy. Simply head to either the iOS App Store or Google Play Store and download the UNiDAYS App, completely free. Once you’ve downloaded the UNiDAYS App, the sign-up process is quick and easy, so you’ll be enjoying student discounts in no time, as well as exclusive student giveaways, polls, content and more.
For many discounts, you just need to show your student ID card. Others require you to fill out online forms or provide a college email address for confirmation. Businesses occasionally ask for verification through a third-party platform like SheerID or ID.me.
If you want an international student ID card, you can order one from Institute of Beauty & Makeup.
That helps students avail discounts in shops, restaurants, transportation and other facilities.
Yes, international students can also get student ID cards. For example, you can get a student ID card from Institute of Beauty & Makeup delivered to any country in the world.
The Student ID Card will be valid as long as you study in the institution. With the end of your term, your ID card will also expire.
Student ID and student number can sometimes be the same thing. However, the student number is the number assigned to you by your institution, and the student ID is the number on your ID card.
In the UK, the student ID number is the number provided on the ID card.