Frequently asked questions

BDA Student Membership is available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students who are currently enrolled on a BDA-accredited and HCPC-approved dietetics course in the UK.

There are currently two BDA-accredited courses overseas to cater for our international student community.

The Student Membership year follows two annual cycles, depending on your course start date:

• 1 October – 30 September
• 1 February – 31 January

Your membership will begin on either 1 October or 1 February – whichever is most aligned to your course start date. To maintain access to benefits, your membership must renew annually, with the membership fee due at the point of renewal.

Please note that membership renews automatically, with payment either collected via direct debit or made online via credit/debit card depending on your chosen payment method.

You can apply for membership easily online via the BDA website. You will need to provide your university course details and select a payment method (direct debit is required for free first-year membership).

Once your application is confirmed by the respective approval tutor at your university, you will receive a confirmation email, providing access to your MyBDA portal on our website.

Yes, BDA Student Membership is completely free for your first year of study if paying by Direct Debit. This applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate first-year students. If you choose to pay by credit/debit card, you will be charged for your first year.

Student Membership is heavily discounted by almost 90% of full membership, costing just £42.62 per year (for 2025/2026).

Students can pay via:

• Direct Debit (required for free first-year membership)
• Credit or debit card

Payment is required annually, and students must renew each year to maintain their membership.

We provide a wide range of resources and services for students, including:

• Membership of two specialist groups free of charge each year, access to online discussion networks, expert professional knowledge, CPD events, specialist news, awards, bursaries, volunteer opportunities and more.
• Free access to PEN (Practice-based Evidence in Nutrition), a leading evidence-based nutrition database.
• Digital monthly copy of Dietetics Today magazine, featuring professional news, case studies, CPD resources and much more.
• Networking opportunities through the student forum, specialist groups, and discounted BDA events.

As a student member, you will have access to:

• Discounts on numerous publications and resources, including 35% off the BDA Manual of Dietetic Practice and almost 50% off the PENG pocket guide
• Digital copy of Dietetics Today magazine
• Food Fact Sheets, written by dietitians on key nutrition topics
• Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics - British Dietetic Association (BDA) - an academic journal with the latest research
• Our monthly student newsletter RD2B (Registered Dietitian 2 Be)  - regular updates from your student rep and wider organisation, keeping you up to date with the latest news and opportunities.

The BDA provides several resources to support students during your placement, including:

• Indemnity insurance, ensuring you have the necessary liability coverage when working under the supervision of a registered dietitian
• Resource hub, developed by previous student members to assist with placements, interview preparation and more
• Access to BDA specialist groups, allowing you to gain insights into different dietetic fields

Yes! BDA Student Membership offers opportunities to:

• Participate in the BDA Research Symposium, an annual event showcasing dietetic research.
• Volunteer with BDA, gaining experience in different areas of dietetics.
• Join BDA specialist groups and committees to build professional connections.

After graduating, Student members can upgrade to the BDA Graduate Membership rate, which offers a 50% discount on standard membership fees for your first year of practice. Designed specifically for new Graduates who hold pre-existing BDA student or associate Student Membership, this category provides the essential resources, guidance, and community support you’ll need as you embark on your professional journey. 

Visit the BDA Graduate hub to find everything you need to know about becoming a Graduate Member.

The BDA Student Forum is an exclusive online discussion platform where student members can:

• Connect with fellow dietetic students across the UK.
• Share experiences, ask questions, and exchange study tips.
• Access advice on placements, exams, and career development.
   

As a Student Member, you can join two BDA specialist groups for free. These groups focus on different dietetic fields, such as:

• Paediatric Nutrition
• Renal Nutrition
• Obesity and Weight Management
• Diabetes
• Sports and Exercise Nutrition

This is a great way to gain insights into specialist areas, network with professionals, and enhance your learning.