Ultimate List of College Student Discounts

NP
By Nathan Paulus
Edited by Victoria Copans

Updated: October 31, 2024

Advertising & Editorial Disclosure

Tuition, textbooks and living expenses add up quickly, and every bit of savings can make a significant difference. One of the most effective ways to manage college expenses is by taking advantage of student discounts. College student discounts are special offers businesses provide to help students save money on a wide range of products and services.

These discounts are typically available to students who can verify their enrollment status at a college or university. They are available across various categories, from education and technology to travel and entertainment. By utilizing student discounts, you can stretch your budget further, ensuring you have the resources to focus on your studies and enjoy your college experience.

Where to Find College Student Discounts

College student discounts can be found on discount verification platforms, brand websites, social media, community boards and more. Here’s a list of places to explore valuable offers:

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    Discount Verification Platforms

    Websites like UNiDAYS, Student Beans and ID.me are excellent resources for student discounts. By signing up and verifying your student status, you can unlock many deals across various categories, including technology, fashion and entertainment.

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    Brand Websites

    Many brands maintain dedicated sections on their websites specifically for student discounts. Check the sites of the brands you shop at to see if they offer any discounts.

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    Direct Searches for Specific Interests

    If you have specific needs, conducting direct searches can be highly effective. For example, searching for "student discounts on laptops" or "student travel discounts" can lead you to relevant offers tailored to your interests. Just make sure you're purchasing from reputable websites to avoid potential scams.

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    Social Media and Forums

    Follow your favorite brands and local businesses on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and X. These channels often announce exclusive student discounts and promotions. Additionally, joining forums and online communities related to student life can provide insights into discounts that other students have found beneficial.

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    Community Boards and Newsletters

    Local community centers, college campuses and student organizations frequently highlight discounts and special offers in their newsletters or on community boards. These resources can be a treasure trove of information on deals available in your area or through partnerships with local businesses.

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    Ask During Transactions

    Always inquire if a student discount is available when purchasing or booking services, even if it's not prominently advertised. Many businesses offer discounts to students who ask, helping you save on a wide range of products and services.

How to Get and Claim College Student Discounts

To access student discounts, you need to qualify by proving your student status. Here's how you can ensure you're eligible.

  1. 1

    Verify Your Student Status

    To access most student discounts, you must verify your student status typically through UNiDAYS, Student Beans or ID.me. Register with your school email on these sites to authenticate your status as a student. These platforms then partner with numerous brands to offer exclusive discounts on various products and services, from technology to clothing.

  2. 2

    Use Your Student Email

    Many discount programs and websites require a valid school email address to confirm your enrollment. Always use your student email when signing up for discount programs. This email is a straightforward way for companies to verify your student status, giving you access to various deals and offers exclusively available to students.

  3. 3

    Always Carry Your Student ID

    Keep your student ID card with you at all times. Many physical stores and services will ask to see it as proof of eligibility for student discounts. Whether shopping at a retail store, visiting a museum or dining out, having your student ID on hand ensures you can take advantage of discounts that require physical proof of student status.

College Student Discounts on Technology and Software

Accessing the latest technology and software can greatly enhance your academic experience as a college student. Whether you need a new laptop for note-taking and research, software for completing assignments or accessories to boost productivity, student discounts on technology and software can make these essential tools more affordable. Many leading tech companies and software providers offer substantial discounts to students, helping you save money while ensuring you have the resources you need to succeed in your studies.

Company Name
Student Discounts

Adobe Creative Cloud Discount

Adobe offers a 60% discount for students and teachers on the Adobe Creative Cloud, including tools like Photoshop, Illustrator and Premiere Pro.

Adorama College Discount Program

Adorama provides discounts on cameras, audio equipment and other electronics to students who sign up for their college discount program.

Apple Student Discount

Apple offers reduced prices for college students year-round on MacBooks, iPads and accessories.

AT&T Student Savings

AT&T provides savings of up to $10 per month per line on the AT&T Unlimited Premium plan.

Avid Education Pricing

Avid offers special pricing for students on Pro Tools, Media Composer and Sibelius software.

College Student Discounts on Travel and Transportation

Travel and transportation costs can add up quickly for college students, but many companies offer student discounts to make getting around more affordable. Whether you're commuting to campus, taking a trip home or exploring new destinations, these discounts can help you save on everything from bus tickets to flights.

Company Name
Student Discounts

Amtrak

Amtrak offers a 15% discount on train travel for students aged 17–24 when booking at least one day in advance.

Getaway

Getaway offers a 15% discount on bookings for students.

GM

GM offers a college discount to current college students and recent graduates (within two years) on select automobiles.

Megabus

Megabus offers a $3 discount on bus tickets for students registered with UNiDAYS.

New Jersey Transit

New Jersey Transit offers 25% off monthly passes to students attending participating colleges through its University Partnership Program.

College Student Discounts on Streaming Services and Entertainment

College life isn't just about studying — having fun and taking breaks are essential, too. Fortunately, many entertainment venues and streaming services offer student discounts, making it easier to enjoy movies, music, games and more without overspending. These discounts, from streaming services to theme parks, provide affordable ways to relax and unwind.

Company Name
Student Discounts

AMC Theatres

AMC Theatres offers discounted tickets with a valid college ID at participating locations.

Amazon Music Unlimited

Amazon Music Unlimited offers a discounted rate of $5.99 per month for college students after a free 30-day trial.

Apple Music and Apple TV+

Apple Music offers a student plan at $5.99/month for up to 48 months, which includes free access to Apple TV+ for a limited time.

Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime Student offers a 6-month free trial and 50% off the regular Prime membership.

Art Institute of Chicago

Art Institute of Chicago offers discounted admission rates for students. Rates may vary depending on your location or college.

College Student Discounts on Clothing and Apparel

Looking good and feeling confident are important for college students, whether they're attending classes, participating in campus activities or going out with friends. Many clothing and apparel brands offer student discounts, making it easier to stay fashionable on a budget.

Company Name
Student Discounts

Champion

Champion offers a 10% student discount online.

Converse

Converse offers a 10% discount if you’re verified with SheerID.

Crocs

Crocs offers a 25% discount if you’re verified with Student Beans.

Girlfriend Collective

Girlfriend Collective offers 20% off your purchase.

J. Crew

J. Crew offers 20% off your purchase online and in stores now through August 20.

College Student Discounts on Food and Dining

Many restaurants, cafes and food delivery services offer student discounts, making it easier to enjoy your favorite meals without straining your budget. These discounts can help you save on everything from homecooked meals to dining out with friends. In addition, it's always a good idea to ask local restaurants around campus if they offer student discounts.

Company Name
Student Discounts

Blue Apron

Blue Apron offers a $110 coupon and free shipping on your first order when you verify your student status with ID.me.

DoorDash

DoorDash offers a Student DashPass Plan at $4.99/month, which is a savings of $5/month.

EveryPlate

EveryPlate offers 75% off your first student meal kit box, free shipping and an ongoing 15% discount that can be applied for one year if you are registered with UNiDAYs.

HelloFresh

HelloFresh offers 55% off your first food subscription box, free shipping and an ongoing 15% discount that can be applied for one year if you are registered with UNiDAYs.

Home Chef

Home Chef offers 50% off your first four boxes, which is equivalent to free food for 18 meals.

College Student Discounts on Insurance

Insurance, such as health insurance, car insurance and renters insurance, can be a significant expense for college students, but many insurance companies offer discounts to help reduce costs. These discounts often reward good academic performance or provide savings for students living away from home.

Company Name
Student Discounts

Allstate

Allstate offers discounted car insurance rates for full-time, unmarried students under the age of 25. Visit Allstate’s website or talk to your local agent to learn more.

American Family Insurance

American Family Insurance offers a “good student” discount for students between 16 and 25 who maintain a “B” average and are on the dean’s list or honor roll.

Farmers Insurance

Farmers Insurance offers a discount for full-time students under 25 with qualifying grades or test scores.

Geico

Geico gives full-time students in good academic standing 15% off some coverages. Talk to your local agent for more information.

Nationwide Insurance

Nationwide Insurance offers a discount to students between 16 and 24 who maintain a “B” average or higher. Students must be full-time high school or college students.

College Student Discounts on Student Supplies

Many retailers offer special discounts to students, helping you save on a wide range of products. Whether looking for art supplies, tech gadgets or home essentials, these discounts can make your shopping more affordable.

Company Name
Student Discounts

Blick

Blick offers 10% off art supplies with a student ID and Preferred Customer Card.

Corkcicle

Corkcicle offers 20% off your purchase.

Purple

Purple offers students a 10% discount on mattresses.

Stanley

Stanley offers 20% off your purchase.

How to Maximize Student Discounts and Savings

College students can maximize student discounts and save more by combining discounts, using cash back and rewards programs, shopping during seasonal sales and more. Here are some ways to make the most of student discounts and stretch your budget:

  1. 1

    Combine Discounts

    Look for opportunities to stack student discounts with other promotions or coupons. For example, if a retailer offers a seasonal sale, you might be able to use your student discount on top of the sale prices.

  2. 2

    Use Cash Back and Rewards Programs

    Sign up for cash back programs that can provide additional savings and student discounts. Many credit cards also offer cash back or rewards points for purchases.

  3. 3

    Subscribe to Newsletters

    Many companies offer exclusive discounts and early access to sales through their newsletters. Subscribing to newsletters from your favorite brands can inform you about new discounts and promotions.

  4. 4

    Take Advantage of Seasonal Sales

    Plan your purchases around major sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, back-to-school sales and end-of-season clearances. Combining these sales with student discounts can lead to significant savings.

  5. 5

    Leverage Loyalty Programs

    Join loyalty programs at stores where you frequently shop. Many loyalty programs offer points, exclusive discounts and member-only sales that can be combined with student discounts.

  6. 6

    Ask About Unadvertised Discounts

    Always inquire if a student discount is available when purchasing, even if it’s not advertised. Some stores and services offer discounts that they don’t publicly promote.

  7. 7

    Plan and Budget Your Purchases

    Create a budget and plan your purchases for the best discounts. Avoid impulse buying by making a list of needed items and waiting for the best discounts to purchase them.

About Nathan Paulus

Nathan Paulus headshot

Nathan Paulus is the Head of Content Marketing at MoneyGeek, with nearly 10 years of experience researching and creating content related to personal finance and financial literacy.

Paulus has a bachelor's degree in English from the University of St. Thomas, Houston. He enjoys helping people from all walks of life build stronger financial foundations.

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