What is the TOTUM card?
The National Union of Students represents millions of students across the UK in further and higher education. It is one of the largest student organisations worldwide, and part of its role involves helping students stretch their money further.
Since 2018, the NUS discount card has been known as TOTUM. This card provides discounts at shops, restaurants and services, and can also serve as a form of student identification. By applying for a TOTUM card, students can access savings on numerous everyday purchases.
Types of TOTUM card available
TOTUM offers different card options aimed at different groups of students. The main options have typically included:
- Cards for students in year 12 or 13 at school or sixth form college
- Cards for those enrolled in higher or further education courses
- Cards for people studying with certain professional or training organisations
There is also TOTUM Lite, a free version that offers access to some discounts without the full range of benefits. This can be a good starting point for students who want to try the service before committing to a paid card.
Each card type comes with different pricing and benefits. Some versions offer additional features such as access to exclusive online deals or extended validity periods. Pricing changes regularly, so check the official TOTUM website for current costs and any promotional offers.
Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.
What discounts and benefits can you get?
A TOTUM card provides access to discounts at a wide range of retailers. This includes high street shops, online stores, restaurants, cinemas and travel services. Many national chains participate in the scheme, offering savings that can range from ten per cent off to larger reductions during promotional periods.
The card can also serve as a recognised form of student ID. This may be useful if your university or college does not issue its own photo card, or if you need proof of student status for other purposes such as buying railcards or getting discounts at venues that accept student ID.
Cardholders often receive emails with information about new offers, student news and practical advice. You can manage your email preferences through your account settings.
How to apply for a card
Applications are handled online through the TOTUM website. You will need to provide details about your course and the institution where you are studying. Verification of your student status is required, which typically involves uploading proof of enrolment such as a course acceptance letter, student finance confirmation, or having your institution confirm your details directly. Processing times can vary depending on how quickly your student status is verified.
Digital versions of the card are often available through an app, allowing you to access discounts while waiting for a physical card to arrive.
If you are studying with a professional organisation rather than a traditional university or college, check whether your provider is on the approved list before applying. TOTUM eligibility extends to various accredited educational programmes, but not all courses or training providers qualify. The TOTUM website has detailed eligibility criteria.
For the most accurate and current information on card types, pricing and eligibility, visit the official TOTUM website directly. Details can change from year to year, and the site will have the latest on what is available.
I've just read your guide and now assume that you are the people I need to speak to to get an NUS card, even though your website has nothing to do with the NUS! So can you get one to me as soon as possible please? Or maybe go out of your way to send me an application form even though you've already advised loads of people to go to the NUS website and sort it out for themselves!
Anyway, if you could send me a card even tho you can't that would be great!
Regards
If you are applying online you can upload a JPEG ( less than 125 kilobytes in file size (have a dimension of 340 pixels by 453 pixels) and show only your full face with you looking directly at the camera, and with no hair covering eyes or eyebrows and definitely don't wear sunglasses!
You need a light background, and you should be alone.
Hope this helps.
Thank you.
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