Being a student means juggling classes, deadlines, and a tight budget—but it doesn’t mean you have to give up eating out. Many popular restaurants across the U.S. offer exclusive discounts to students with a valid school ID. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch between lectures or planning a late-night food run, these student deals can help you save every time you dine.

Here’s a curated list of restaurants that currently offer student discounts, plus tips for making the most of your student status.

How student discounts work at restaurants

Most restaurants require you to show a valid student ID when ordering in person. For online or app-based orders, some brands verify student status through third-party platforms like UNiDAYS or Student Beans. Discount amounts vary by location, but typically range from 10% to 20%.

Always ask at checkout—even if the discount isn’t posted. Some local franchises quietly honor student pricing at their discretion.

National restaurant chains with student discounts

Here are well-known chains that offer consistent discounts to students:

• Chick-fil-A – Select locations offer a free drink with student ID.

• Chipotle – Some locations offer a free drink or 10% off for students.

• Subway – Certain stores provide 10% off with a valid student ID.

• Buffalo Wild Wings – Some locations offer 10% off or a discount on dine-in orders.

• QDOBA – Free drink with entrée purchase at many locations.

• Pizza Hut – Select franchises offer up to 20% off with ID.

These discounts may vary by region or be limited to campus-adjacent locations, so it’s worth checking ahead.

Regional chains and local restaurants

In addition to national brands, many college-town restaurants provide student-exclusive pricing. Look for:

• University food courts or dining programs that include off-campus partners

• Restaurants listed in your school’s student perks portal

• Cafes or diners with campus bulletin boards or flyers advertising deals

Search Google with “[your university name] student discounts restaurants” or use Yelp to filter by budget and distance.

Apps that help students find deals

• UNiDAYS – Verified student platform offering exclusive deals at restaurants, apparel brands, and more.

• Student Beans – Offers food and drink discounts when you verify your .edu email.

• Yelp – Search for terms like “student discount” or filter reviews by keyword.

Tips for maximizing your student dining discounts

1. Always carry your student ID—it can save you money even when it’s not advertised.

2. Combine your student discount with loyalty rewards at places like QDOBA or Buffalo Wild Wings Rewards.

3. Look for combo meals that offer the best value and ask if student pricing applies to them.

4. For online orders, check if Fluz, Rakuten, or Ibotta offer cashback when buying a digital gift card to the restaurant—doubling your savings. For example, you can earn cashback with a Chipotle gift card or get rewards with a Buffalo Wild Wings gift card.

Final reminder: always ask

Even if you don’t see a sign posted, many locations offer student pricing informally. The worst they can say is no—and the best-case scenario is walking out with your favorite meal at a discount.