University of Glasgow

Back

Stretch your student budget with helpful advice and tips on saving money.

The Glasgow Financial assistance and support, offers guidance on managing finances and making the most of a budget. Whether students need advice on budgeting, finding part-time employment, or accessing student discounts, hardship funds, or scholarships, their friendly advisors are there to support them.

You can visit College financial assistance for information on financial support available from college or private hall. You may also get in touch with the Glasgow University Student Union for guidance.


Get the most out of leisure time with affordable entertainment options.


Make the most of your free time with budget-friendly entertainment options around the University of Glasgow. The Glasgow Film Theatre on Rose Street offers discounted student tickets and showcases a diverse range of indie, foreign, and classic films. Theatre lovers can take advantage of the “My Theatre” scheme at the Theatre Royal and King’s Theatre, where 16–25-year-olds can enjoy top performances for just £5. For live music and comedy, Òran Mór—located in the heart of the West End—hosts an array of affordable events, including its popular lunchtime theatre series, "A Play, A Pie and A Pint," offering great value and a unique cultural experience.



Need to stock up on groceries?

Students at the University of Glasgow can find convenient and affordable options nearby. Local supermarkets like Tesco Express on Byres Road and Lidl on Maryhill Road offer competitive prices, and while not all chains offer student discounts, keeping an eye out for loyalty schemes and app-based offers can lead to significant savings. Bringing a student ID and planning shopping trips around promotions or late-evening markdowns can help stretch your budget further.





Take a break from studying and enjoy discounted leisure activities.

Fore Play Crazy Golf, located in Finnieston, offers a fun and energetic mini-golf experience with quirky obstacles, great food, and student discounts on selected days.

Escape Glasgow, situated on Bath Street, provides immersive escape room challenges and offers students up to 15% off the standard price.

Delta Force Paintball Glasgow, just outside the city, is a five-star rated venue by the UK Paintball Association and offers action-packed paintball games ideal for groups.

Pinkston Watersports, near Speirs Wharf, is a hub for water-based fun including kayaking, paddleboarding, and wild swimming — perfect for adventurous students.

Travel around Glasgow and beyond at discounted rates.


First Glasgow, the city's main bus operator, offers a range of student travel passes that provide unlimited travel within specified zones—perfect for commuting to campus or exploring the city.


Students can visit the operators’ websites or contact First Glasgow’s customer service at +44 (0)345 646 0707 for more information on student travel options.

List of Bars

  1. The Lauder's Bar (77 Sauchiehall St, G2 3DE): A classic Scottish pub in the heart of the city offering affordable drinks, hearty food, and a lively atmosphere—great for students on a budget.
  2. The Howlin’ Wolf (100 Bath St, G2 2EN): Known for its bluesy vibe and late-night live music, this bar also serves up delicious comfort food and a strong range of drinks.
  3. Nice N Sleazy (421 Sauchiehall St, G2 3LG): A favorite among students, this bar features DJs, gigs, and a grungy atmosphere with cheap drinks and tasty burgers.
  4. The Record Factory (17 Byres Rd, G11 5RD): A West End hotspot styled like a New York dive bar, with live music, pool tables, and student deals on drinks and food.
  5. Hillhead Bookclub (17 Vinicombe St, G12 8SJ): A quirky and creative space in the West End offering ping pong, board games, cocktails in jam jars, and student-friendly prices.
  6. Brel (Ashton Lane, G12 8SJ): A Belgian-style bar with a magical fairy-lit beer garden, known for its extensive selection of beers, cheese fondue, and relaxed vibe.
  7. The Flying Duck (142 Renfield St, G2 3AU): A vegan-friendly bar and gig venue offering quirky events, themed nights, and a solid lineup of affordable drinks.
  8. The Ark (46 North Frederick St, G1 2BS): A spacious bar popular with students for its big screens, drink promos, and outdoor beer garden.


Need a caffeine fix?


Students at the University of Glasgow can enjoy quality coffee from a range of nearby spots. Independent cafés like Papercup and Kaf Coffee offer artisan brews and cozy study vibes, while familiar chains like Costa and Starbucks on Byres Road provide convenience and loyalty perks. Many places also offer student discounts, so don’t forget your student ID.


FAQs
What are some of the local restaurants offering student discounts?

Local restaurants near the University of Glasgow like Paesano Pizza, The 78 Bar & Kitchen, and Twelve Triangles often offer student discounts or special deals.

How can I get discounted gym memberships in Glasgow?

Students in Glasgow can get discounted gym memberships through University of Glasgow Sport, Glasgow Club’s FitClub, and local gyms like PureGym and The Gym Group, often with special student rates or introductory offers.

How can I access the Money Advice Unit services?

You can access the University of Glasgow's Money Advice services through the Student Representative Council (SRC) Advice Centre, which offers free, confidential support on budgeting, debt management, and financial planning.