Let’s be honest—being a student with champagne beauty taste on a soda budget is a daily hustle. But what if we told you that you can actually afford those cult-favorite skincare essentials, viral makeup must-haves, and self-care treats without maxing out your budget?
Enter: student discounts on top beauty stores. Today, we’re comparing Cult Beauty vs Sephora—two online giants with thousands of products, but very different student perks.
So, who really gives students the better deal? Let’s break it down.
1. Student Discount Policy
| Feature | Cult Beauty | Sephora |
| Eligibility | Verified via UNiDAYS or Student Beans | No official student discount program globally |
| Discount % | 10% OFF for students year-round | None (Only limited-time sitewide sales) |
| Valid on Offers? | Often stackable with sales or free gift promos | N/A |
Verdict: Cult Beauty wins here with a solid, verified student discount program. Unlock your 10% student discount here.
2. Loyalty & Rewards Programs
| Feature | Cult Beauty – CB Rewards | Sephora – Beauty Insider |
| Membership Fee | Free | Free |
| Points for Every £1 | 1 point | 1 point per $1 (in most regions) |
| Redeemable Perks | Early access, deluxe samples, VIP sales | Birthday gifts, samples, exclusive events |
| Tiers | Yes (Bronze, Silver, Gold based on spend) | Yes (Insider, VIB, Rouge based on spend) |
Verdict: Sephora’s Beauty Insider is more robust, especially for frequent shoppers.
But if you’re only buying what you need, Cult Beauty’s perks still feel rewarding. Sign up for Cult Beauty Rewards
3. Shipping & Delivery (UK + Global)
| Feature | Cult Beauty | Sephora (US/ India/ Global) |
| Free Shipping | Free above £25 (UK) / varies internationally | Free above $50 in US / region-based |
| Delivery Speed | 2–5 days (UK), up to 10 days international | 2–3 days in US, slower globally |
| Returns | 14-day free return policy | 30-day return window (but limited in some regions) |
4. Best Value for Students
| Area | Cult Beauty | Sephora |
| Budget Beauty Brands | Yes (The Ordinary, The Inkey List, Beauty Bay exclusives) | Limited (focuses more on mid-high range brands) |
| Free Gifts with Purchase | Frequently available + stackable with discounts | Seasonal or during major sales only |
| Educational Discounts | Yes (via Student Beans / UNiDAYS) | No student-specific offers |
| Exclusive Sets & Minis | Yes, often with bonus discounts | Yes, but higher price point |
Verdict: Cult Beauty is more student-budget-friendly overall, especially with discounted bundles, free gifts, and verified student pricing. Grab your student beauty bundle deal now.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Shop as a Student?
If you’re a student looking to save money, stack deals, and still get the latest viral skincare drops—Cult Beauty wins hands down in 2025.
Sephora may be a go-to for rewards and exclusive events, but for affordable everyday glam on a student budget, Cult Beauty checks all the boxes:
- Year-round student discount
- Budget-friendly brands
- Free gifts
- Fast UK shipping
Want the glow-up without the guilt?
Click here to claim your student discount at Cult Beauty today.
Pro Tip:
Use your student discount with sale events like Black Friday, Back-to-Uni bundles, or Summer Glow promos for double savings. You can thank us later. 😉