As a college student, I know firsthand how quickly expenses can pile up—textbooks, food, subscriptions, and those occasional coffee runs add up fast. That’s why finding the best apps for college student discounts is a game-changer, helping you stretch your budget without sacrificing the things you love.
These apps offer exclusive deals on everything from tech to meals, making your college experience a little less stressful and a lot more affordable. In this article, I’ll walk you through my top picks for apps that deliver real savings for students like you.
I’ve spent hours researching and testing these apps to ensure they’re legit, user-friendly, and packed with value. Whether you’re looking to score discounts on streaming services, food delivery, or even tech gadgets, I’ve got you covered with detailed insights and tips to maximize your savings. Let’s dive in and explore how you can save big while juggling college life!
Why College Student Discount Apps Matter
Let’s be real—college is expensive. Between tuition, housing, and supplies, your wallet can feel like it’s on life support. I remember my first semester when I realized how much I was spending on takeout and subscriptions. That’s when I started hunting for ways to save, and student discount apps became my lifeline.
These apps are designed to help you access exclusive deals just for being a student, often with a simple verification process using your .edu email or a student ID. Using these apps isn’t just about saving a few bucks here and there—it’s about making your money work harder so you can focus on studying, socializing, and enjoying college life.
Plus, many of these apps partner with brands you already love, so you’re not compromising on quality. You’ll find deals on everything from laptops to pizza, and I’ll break down the best ones to help you get started.
My Top Picks for the Best Apps for College Student Discounts
Here’s my curated list of the best apps for college student discounts based on ease of use, variety of offers, and overall savings potential. I’ve included details on how each app works, what kind of discounts you can expect, and tips to make the most of them.
1. UNiDAYS
When I first discovered UNiDAYS, it felt like hitting the jackpot. This app is a powerhouse for student discounts, offering exclusive deals from brands like Apple, Adidas, and ASOS. You sign up with your college email, verify your student status, and boom—you’re in. The app is free, and the interface is super easy to navigate, making it perfect for finding deals on the go.
What You Get: UNiDAYS partners with hundreds of brands, so you can score up to 30% off tech from Logitech, 10% off fashion from ASOS, or even 65% off a Babbel language-learning subscription. The deals rotate regularly, so you’re always finding fresh offers.
I’ve used UNiDAYS to save on clothes and even nabbed a discount on Apple Music, which includes Apple TV+ for free for a limited time.
Pro Tip: Check the app weekly for new offers, and don’t forget to use your UNiDAYS code at checkout for online purchases. Some deals are exclusive to the app, so it’s worth keeping it on your phone.
2. Student Beans
Student Beans is another gem I swear by for saving money. Like UNiDAYS, it’s free to join, and you verify your student status with an .edu email or through a third-party service like ID.me. What I love about Student Beans is its mix of big-name brands and local deals, so you can save both online and at nearby restaurants.
What You Get: Expect discounts like 35% off Domino’s Pizza, 50% off Home Chef meal kits, or 25% off Paramount+ subscriptions. I once used Student Beans to get 10% off at Chipotle just by showing my digital student ID in-store. The app also offers cashback on certain purchases, which is a nice bonus.
Pro Tip: Use the app’s location feature to find deals at restaurants and stores near your campus. It’s a lifesaver when you’re craving a cheap meal between classes.
3. Amazon Prime Student
If you’re an online shopping addict like me, Amazon Prime Student is a must-have. I signed up for the six-month free trial, and it’s been a game-changer for getting textbooks, dorm essentials, and even snacks delivered fast. After the trial, it’s only $7.49 a month—half the price of a regular Prime membership.
What You Get: You’ll enjoy free two-day shipping, access to Prime Video, Prime Music, and exclusive student deals on tech like laptops and headphones. I saved big on a pair of wireless earbuds during a Prime Day sale. Plus, you get unlimited photo storage, which is perfect for backing up all those lecture notes and selfies.
Pro Tip: Link your Prime Student account to Grubhub+ for free food delivery on orders over $12. It’s a small perk that adds up when you’re ordering late-night study snacks.
4. Spotify Premium Student
As someone who needs music to survive long study sessions, Spotify Premium Student is one of my favorite apps. For $5.99 a month, you get ad-free music, unlimited skips, and a bonus Hulu subscription with ads. It’s one of the best apps for college student discounts because it bundles entertainment at a steal.
What You Get: Access to millions of songs, podcasts, and Hulu’s library of shows and movies. I’ve binged entire seasons of shows during study breaks without spending extra. The deal lasts up to four years, but you’ll need to re-verify your student status annually.
Pro Tip: Download playlists for offline listening to save data when you’re on campus Wi-Fi. Also, check out Spotify’s student hub for exclusive discounts on other services.
5. Headspace
College can be stressful, and I’ve found Headspace to be a lifesaver for staying calm. This meditation app offers an 85% discount for students, bringing the annual cost down to $9.99 from $69.99. You verify your status through the app, and you’re set to access guided meditations and sleep aids.
What You Get: Courses on managing anxiety, improving focus, and even exam prep meditations. I use the sleep soundscapes to wind down after late-night study sessions. The app’s clean design makes it easy to find what you need, whether it’s a quick five-minute meditation or a longer session.
Pro Tip: Set a daily reminder to use Headspace for at least 10 minutes. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference in your mental health and save you money on therapy.
How to Maximize Your Savings with These Apps
Using these apps is just the start—here’s how you can squeeze every penny out of them:
- Verify Early: Most apps require you to verify your student status with a .edu email or through services like UNiDAYS or SheerID. Do this as soon as you download the app to unlock deals instantly.
- Stack Deals: Some apps, like Student Beans, let you combine discounts with cashback offers. For example, I’ve paired a 10% off coupon with a cashback deal to save even more.
- Check Regularly: Discounts change often, especially on UNiDAYS and Student Beans. I set a weekly reminder to browse for new deals so I don’t miss out.
- Use Your Student ID: Even without an app, flashing your student ID at local restaurants or stores can score you unadvertised discounts. I’ve saved 10% at Subway just by asking.
The Benefits of Using Discount Apps in College
These apps do more than just save you money—they help you manage your time and stress. When I’m juggling assignments and part-time work, knowing I can get a meal or a subscription for less takes a weight off my shoulders. Plus, many of these apps are designed with students in mind, so they’re easy to use even when you’re sleep-deprived and running to class.
Another perk is that these apps often introduce you to new brands or services. I discovered EveryPlate’s meal kits through Student Beans, and now I’m cooking affordable, healthy meals instead of relying on instant ramen. It’s a win for both my wallet and my health.
Potential Drawbacks and How to Avoid Them
No app is perfect, and I’ve run into a few hiccups. Some discounts are location-specific, so you might not find deals at every store near your campus. To avoid disappointment, check the app’s terms or use the location filter. Also, some apps require annual re-verification, which can be a hassle if you forget—set a calendar reminder to stay on top of it.
Another thing to watch out for is overspending. Just because you’re getting a discount doesn’t mean you need to buy everything. I’ve learned to stick to a budget and only use discounts for things I’d buy anyway, like textbooks or streaming services.
FAQs About the Best Apps for College Student Discounts
Q: Do I need a .edu email to use these apps?
A: Most apps, like UNiDAYS and Student Beans, require a .edu email or verification through a third-party service like SheerID or ID.me. Some, like Headspace, also accept international student IDs.
Q: Are these discounts available for international students?
A: Yes, many apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans offer deals for international students, but you may need to verify your status through your university’s portal or an international student ID card.
Q: Can I use these apps after I graduate?
A: Most discounts are only valid while you’re enrolled in college. Some, like Amazon Prime Student, last up to four years but require annual re-verification. Always check the app’s terms.
Q: Are there hidden costs to using these apps?
A: The apps I’ve listed are free to download and use, though some discounts may require a subscription (like Spotify Premium Student). Always read the fine print to avoid unexpected charges.
Conclusion
Navigating college on a tight budget doesn’t have to be a struggle, and the best apps for college student discounts make it easier to save on the things you need (and want). From UNiDAYS’ massive range of brand deals to Spotify’s music and Hulu bundle, these apps have helped me keep more money in my pocket while still enjoying college life.
Download a few of these apps, verify your student status, and start exploring the deals available to you. Trust me, your bank account will thank you, and you’ll have more cash for those late-night pizza runs or that new laptop you’ve been eyeing.