Being a student in South Africa comes with its challenges, especially when it comes to managing money. But here’s some good news — there are several lesser-known student discounts available that can help stretch your budget. Whether you’re enrolled at a university, TVET college, or private institution, flashing your student card or using your student email can unlock great savings.
Student Discounts in South Africa You Didn’t Know About
Here’s a comprehensive guide to student discounts in South Africa that you probably didn’t know about.
1. Travel and Transport Discounts
Intercape & Greyhound Buses
Many long-distance bus companies such as Intercape and Greyhound offer discounted rates to students traveling between cities. The discounts can range from 5% to 15%, especially during off-peak times. Booking online with your student ID number or through a campus travel agency usually secures the deal.
Gautrain
Full-time students can apply for a discounted Gautrain Gold Card through certain institutions, offering lower fares during the academic year. It’s especially useful for students commuting between Johannesburg and Pretoria.
2. Tech and Software Savings
Apple Education Store
If you’re studying design, music, or IT, this is a game changer. Apple offers student discounts on MacBooks, iPads, and accessories through their Education Store. These deals are only accessible when verified through UNiDAYS, an international student discount platform.
Microsoft Office 365
Most South African universities provide free access to Microsoft Office 365 for enrolled students. This includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and cloud storage via OneDrive. Check with your institution’s IT department for your activation link.
Adobe Creative Cloud
Students in creative fields can get up to 60% off Adobe Creative Cloud packages. These discounts are usually offered through registered institutions, but you can also apply directly with proof of student status.
3. Fashion and Lifestyle Deals
Cotton On & Typo
These popular fashion retailers offer 10–15% discounts to students who sign up with Student Beans, another global student verification platform that works in South Africa.
Superbalist
Superbalist offers exclusive student sales throughout the year and often includes extra discounts during back-to-school promotions. Signing up with your student email can give you early access.
Takealot Student Deals
Takealot doesn’t always advertise their student perks, but by subscribing to their newsletter or using your student email, you can receive promo codes for electronics, textbooks, and student tech bundles.
4. Food and Entertainment
Spotify Premium Student
Spotify offers a discounted monthly Premium rate for verified students in South Africa. You’ll pay almost 50% less for unlimited music streaming with no ads — great for studying or relaxing.
Showmax & Amazon Prime Video
While Netflix doesn’t currently offer student discounts, Showmax and Amazon Prime Video sometimes run student deals or free trials when you sign up with your campus email address.
KFC & Burger King Campus Promotions
Some fast-food branches located near universities offer exclusive combo deals or discounts to students with valid student cards. These are often not advertised online, so keep an eye out in-store or on posters around campus.
Read more: Top 20 Remote Jobs That Pay Well in South Africa
5. Fitness and Wellbeing
Virgin Active and Planet Fitness Student Packages
Both gym chains have student membership options that are significantly cheaper than regular rates. Some contracts also come with flexible terms to fit the academic calendar.
Dis-Chem Clinic Student Wellness Services
Dis-Chem’s in-store clinics often provide affordable wellness check-ups and vaccinations for students at discounted rates, especially at locations close to tertiary institutions.
Also check: Key Features of Varsity Vibe: Unlocking Student Perks and Discounts in 2025
Final Tips
- Use Your Student Email: Many deals are unlocked simply by registering with a student email address ending in “.ac.za”.
- Sign Up for Student Discount Platforms: Platforms like UNiDAYS and Student Beans are free and give you access to both local and international discounts.
- Ask Before You Pay: Many local stores, restaurants, and service providers near campuses offer informal discounts that aren’t advertised online. Always ask if they offer a student rate.
