Introduction to Student ID Cards and Their Benefits
A student ID card is an indispensable resource that gives you access to a number of advantages and services in addition to confirming your identification as a student. This card can considerably improve your student life by providing student discounts and granting access to campus resources. This guide will walk you through the steps to obtain a student ID card in the UK and highlight the benefits it offers.
Understanding the Student ID Card
Educational institutions such as schools, colleges, and universities provide student ID cards. It contains basic information such as your name, address, ID number, photograph, and educational institution name. The inclusion of an expiration date and a roll number or registration number is also fairly common. Modern student ID cards frequently have QR codes on them that connect to the student's profile and instantly present essential information.
Eligibility for a Student ID Card in the UK
Anyone aged 12 or over who is enrolled in a school, college, or university in the UK qualifies for a student ID card.
Importance of a Student ID Card
A student ID card serves multiple purposes, including:
- Identification:
It helps verify a student’s identity for various activities. Security and Safety: Enhances campus security by identifying authorized individuals.
- Access to Facilities and Services:
Acts as an access card for campus facilities such as libraries, computer labs, and sports facilities.
- Student Discounts and Privileges:
Enables students to avail discounts at various establishments.
- Student Services:
Provides access to student services like library borrowing and educational resources.
- Proof of Enrolment:
Serves as proof of enrolment for administrative and official purposes.
Requirements to Apply for a Student ID Card in the UK
To obtain a student ID card in the UK, students must:
- Complete Enrolment:
Finish online enrolment and receive an email and password to open a student account.
- Provide a Confirmed Address:
Submit an address where the ID card will be mailed.
- Submit a Photo:
Provide a passport-sized photo.
- Provide a Photo Identification Document:
Upload a scanned copy of a license or passport for photo identification.
- Know When to Apply:
Log in to the student account to find and fill out the student ID card form.
- Receive the ID:
After submitting the application, the card will be mailed to the provided address.
Using Your Student ID Card
Once you have your student ID card, it grants access to educational facilities and services. However, it is essential to note, that the card is solely for personal use and should be reported if lost or stolen.
Cost of a Student ID Card
Student ID cards are typically free and provided by educational institutions. However, replacement costs may apply if the card is lost or stolen. Student discount cards may range from £10-30.
Obtaining Free UK Student ID Cards
Educational institutions in the UK issue student ID cards free of charge. Ensure to apply through your school, college, or university.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Student ID Card
Report a lost or stolen student ID card to the authorities and fill out a replacement form. The replacement policy varies by institution.
Student Discount Cards
For additional discounts, students can obtain internationally recognized student discount cards. Here are some popular options:
- International Student Identity Card (ISIC):
This globally recognized card verifies your student status in over 130 countries. It provides access to 150,000 discounts worldwide on services such as transportation, retail, and cultural sites. In the UK, the virtual copy costs £12, while the plastic card is £15.
- NUS Card:
Widely used in the UK, the NUS card offers discounts on various services, including TV licenses and tax exemptions. A one-year membership costs £13, two years £22, and three years £32.
- UNiDAYS:
UNiDAYS provides free access to student discounts both online and offline. To join, students must register with their academic email. Brands like Apple and ASOS offer discounts through UNiDAYS.
- Student Beans:
Similar to UNiDAYS, Student Beans offers free membership and discounts at over 10,000 stores. Students need to sign up on the Student Beans website to access these deals.
Eligibility for Student Discount Cards
To be eligible for these discount cards, you must be a student, typically over the age of 12 or 16, depending on the card. Proof of student status is required, which can be shown through your institution-issued student ID card or an academic email ID.
Throughout your academic journey, a student ID card is a crucial asset because it provides identification, access to facilities, and other discounts. If you haven’t applied for your student ID card yet, do so now to start enjoying these benefits. Additionally, if you want to optimize your savings and access even more special offers, think about getting additional student discount cards.
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