Dating as a uni student
10 January 2025 • 1 min read
Dating can be fun, it can be challenging, and if done well, it can even lead to love. But when you’re dating at uni you have a whole sharing platter of unique challenges to face, way before you make it to the first kiss. Fortunately for you, we’ve been there and suffered through the heart ache, and are here to tell you all the things you definitely should do, and a few things you should avoid.
But first…
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What do you want to get out of dating?
This is the question you should ask yourself before you dive head-first into the world of romance. Knowing the answer could help you avoid the wrong person and stop you getting stuck in any difficult situations. Are you just looking for a bit of fun? Do you want something serious? Or are you just trying to figure out what, and who, you’re actually into? Ask yourself all those things before you swipe, tap or talk your way into your first date, and you’ll set off on the right path. Now for the fun stuff…
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Work out your dating budget
Love costs, even if that love only lasts for one date. While you might like the idea of sweeping that special someone off their feet and taking them to the fanciest restaurant in town, it’s worth considering whether that’s something you can afford to do. Make sure your date plans fit into your monthly budget, and if things are looking a little tight, there’s nothing wrong with suggesting something cheaper.
Drinks without food are often more affordable, and things like a walk in the park, a trip to the beach (if your uni is near one) or a visit to a local attraction can cost you absolutely nothing, while still being pretty romantic.
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Make the most of offers
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but you’ll never get better deals than when you’re a student. Dating is your chance to make the most of them! Look for places doing 2-4-1 deals, see where you can get the best value dinner, and if the local cinema offers popcorn with the price of your ticket, grab that bucket with both hands.
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Make your intentions clear
If you’re only in this for a bit of fun, that’s absolutely fine - just make sure the other person knows that. Leading someone on is so not 2025, and we don’t want any hearts breaking on our watch. On the flip side of that, if you’re looking for something more serious, it’s good to make that clear too. Ok, maybe not straight away - you don’t want to come over too keen - but after a few dates you could start dropping some hints that you’re looking for a long time, as well as a good time.
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Stay safe
You knew this bit was coming, didn’t you? We’re all for having a good time, but make sure you do things safely and with protection. An unplanned baby can really change the direction of your degree, while an unplanned STI can cause a whole load of problems. Lots of student unions will offer free condoms and sexual health support.
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Tell a friend what you’re up to
Sharing your dating stories with a mate can be a laugh, but it can also give you extra security. If you’re meeting someone for the first time, let a friend know where you’re going and what time you expect to be back. Tell them your date’s name and give them a safe word that you can use if you want a quick exit.
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Don’t rush into it
Some of you might arrive at uni with a solid dating history behind you, but for others this might be your first time. And that’s fine. University is a great opportunity to find yourself and discover your interests, so take your time and do things at your own pace. Don’t rush into anything if you’re not ready for it and set your boundaries from the offset. It’s up to you what you do and when you do it.
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Tread carefully on apps
There are loads of dating apps out there, but whether you’re on Tinder, Grindr, Hinge, Bumble or anything else, they all have one thing in common - they can be brutal. Being rejected never feels nice, and apps make it very easy to be rejected in a split second. You might think you’ve found the love of your life, but they might think you’re forgettable and swipe you away. It won’t be fun. Treat apps with caution, and if you feel yourself getting upset, put them down and give yourself a break.
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Practice self-care
The most important person to have a good relationship with is yourself. Dating can leave you feeling amazing or very low, so make sure you look after yourself and put your own needs first. Sometimes a night in on your own with a takeaway and a film can be just as exciting as dinner out with someone else.
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