Student life can be expensive, but having a student card comes with its perks. From discounted lunches and cheap coffees to restaurant deals and nights out, there are plenty of ways to make your money go further in Manchester.
We’ve divided this article into sections so if you’re looking for somewhere to eat on campus, exploring the Northern Quarter or heading into the city centre, here’s a round-up of 20 places where you can make the most of your student status.
On campus
1. Food on Campus – 20% off
A handy one for lunch between lectures. University of Manchester students can save 20% on eligible Food on Campus purchases by topping up their student ID card. Check which outlets are included, as exclusions apply.
2. Precinct – 20% off Monday burgers
Head to the Students’ Union bar for a Monday burger deal. From 2 November to 21 December, students can get a burger, house fries and a pint of house lager or soft drink for £10, after the student discount.
3. 532 Bar + Kitchen – student food and drink deals
Located inside the Students’ Union, 532 is worth checking out for student-priced food and drinks, with additional promotions throughout the week. Keep an eye on its latest offers before heading over.
4. Kro Bar – Daily 2-4-1 Deals
Across the road from the SU, Kro Bar is a great after Uni work spot. They do daily deals on all their menu making it a good place to share a meal and grab a Manc Lager pint.
5. Whitworth and Manchester Museum Shop – 20% off
Both shops on campus offer a range of affordable gifts, stationery, books, homeware and Manchester-inspired products. Additionally there’s exclusive exhibition merchandise. The shops can be a great place to discover the University’s cultural venues, pick up unique gifts, or find study essentials. Perfect for your Christmas shopping.
Oxford Road and Circle Square
6. Hello Oriental – 10% off
A popular Oxford Road food hall serving East and Southeast Asian food. Students can get 10% off their bill by showing a valid student card. There’s a minimum spend of £10 and the offer is for dine-in customers.
7. Zouk Tea Bar & Grill – 20% off
Fancy something a little different? Zouk, just off Oxford Road on Chester Street, offers students 20% off food and drink Monday to Friday, between 11am and 7pm. Just show your valid student ID.
8. Navarro Lounge – £7.50 lunch deal
Not strictly a student-only discount, but a useful one to know about. Navarro Lounge on Oxford Road offers soup and half a grilled cheese toastie for £7.50, Monday to Friday between 12pm and 5pm.
Northern Quarter and Chinatown
9. Ban Di Bul – 10% off
If you’re heading towards Chinatown, Ban Di Bul offers students 10% off with a valid student ID. A good excuse to explore some Korean food in the city centre.
10. Shoryu Ramen – up to 30% off
Ramen fans, take note. Shoryu Ramen offers Student Beans members 30% off food on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, dropping to 15% from Thursday to Sunday. Perfect for a midweek meal.
11. Vapiano – 50% off
A particularly good deal for pasta and pizza lovers. Students can get 50% off the full menu, including drinks, Monday to Thursday at Vapiano in the Corn Exchange. You’ll need to verify your student status through the Vapiano app.
City centre, Deansgate and beyond
12. Franco Manca – £6 student pizza
Fancy a pizza without spending a fortune? Franco Manca at Piccadilly Gardens offers a £6 student pizza deal every Monday. Remember to bring your student ID. WeOutOut
13. Roxy Ball Room – 25% off
Fancy a bit of friendly competition? Roxy Ball Room offers students 25% off everything Sunday to Friday. Whether it’s bowling, pool or arcade games, you’ll need valid student ID and to sign up to its discount scheme. Walk-ins only. Games, Food & Drink
14. Las Iguanas – 40% off
If you’re planning a meal out with friends, Las Iguanas at Deansgate offers students 40% off food and drinks Sunday to Thursday. You’ll need to sign up for a student discount code. This particular promotion is advertised until 12 November 2026.
15. itsu – 15% off
A useful one for a quick lunch. Students can get 15% off at itsu, including its Spinningfields location, by registering with a student email address through the itsu app.
16. COSMO – 10% off
For those who love a buffet, COSMO offers students 10% off their food bill Monday to Friday. You’ll need to show your NUS, UCAS or university/college ID when being seated. The discount excludes drinks.
17. Junkyard Golf – 50% off
Looking for a fun date activity? Get 50% off 9-hole mini golf tickets all day, plus student happy hour specials.
Shopping and everyday essentials
18. Superdrug – 10% off
Students can access 10% off at Superdrug through Student Beans. Handy for toiletries, skincare and those everyday essentials that can quickly add up.
19. Lush – student event discounts
Keep an eye out for Lush’s student shopping events. Manchester’s MCR Student Social in September included Lush among more than 120 participating stores offering student-exclusive promotions. Look out for future events rather than assuming a permanent discount is available.
20. Apple – education savings
Need a new laptop or tablet for university? Apple’s Education Store offers discounted pricing on eligible Macs and iPads for university students. You can check your eligibility and compare education prices online.