Introduction
Back-to-school shopping can sneak up fast—and for college students, it’s no small expense. Whether you’re buying a new laptop, decorating a dorm room, or stocking up on supplies, the costs add up quickly. In fact, college students and their families are expected to spend over $1,365 on average in 2025, according to the National Retail Federation.
But here’s the good news: your student ID isn’t just for campus access—it’s also your pass to serious savings. Many popular brands and retailers offer exclusive student discounts, and when combined with the right credit card, you can save even more on every purchase. From tech and software to clothing, food, and furniture, here’s your ultimate guide to maximizing student discounts this year.
Description
Where Students Can Save in 2025
Your status as a student unlocks discounts across a range of categories, both online and in-store. The key is knowing where to look and how to access these offers.
Electronics and Tech Deals
Big purchases like laptops, tablets, and accessories come with steep discounts for students—sometimes up to 40%.
Highlights:
Apple: Buy a Mac or iPad and receive up to $150 in gift cards, plus 20% off AppleCare+. Use the Apple Card for an extra 3% cashback on Apple purchases.
HP: Get as much as 40% off when you sign up through their Education Store.
Lenovo: Score an extra 5% discount with ID.me verification.
Logitech: Enjoy up to 30% off when registered with UNiDAYS.
Samsung: Save up to 30% via their Education Offers Program.
Microsoft: Offers up to 10% off select devices and accessories.
Restaurant Discounts
Not every place advertises it, but many restaurants—especially those near campuses—offer student deals. Always ask or call ahead.
Participating Chains:
Arby’s, Burger King, Buffalo Wild Wings, Dunkin’: Up to 10% off at select locations.
Chick-fil-A: Get a free small drink with any purchase.
DoorDash: Students can subscribe to DashPass for just $4.99/month.
Software and Subscriptions
From creative tools to productivity apps, software subscriptions often come with steep student discounts—making it easier to access tools for class and entertainment.
Deals to Know:
Adobe Creative Cloud: Full suite access for just $19.99/month (first year).
Microsoft 365 Personal: Online version available to students at $2.99/month.
Evernote: Up to 40% off the Professional plan.
Spotify Premium Student: $5.99/month, includes Hulu (with ads).
Amazon Prime Student: Free for 6 months, then 50% off after.
Slack: 85% off premium plans for student collaboration.
YouTube Premium: $7.99/month for verified students.
Prezi: Upgrades for as low as $3/month.
Home and Dorm Furniture
Moving into a new dorm or apartment? Student discounts can help you save big on furniture, bedding, and essentials.
Where to Look:
Eight Sleep: Up to 6% off mattresses and sleep tech.
Leesa: $50 off select mattresses.
Bed Bath & Beyond: 20% off on four separate purchases.
Pottery Barn: 15% discount available for students.
Clothing and Fashion Discounts
Many fashion retailers offer year-round savings to students. Most require verification through platforms like UNiDAYS or Student Beans.
Popular Brands:
Adidas, Nike, H&M, American Eagle: 10%–20% off
Calvin Klein, Aeropostale, J.Crew: Up to 20% off
Meshki: Save up to 15%
Best Credit Cards for College Students
Pairing your student discounts with the right credit card can boost your savings even more. Here are a few student-friendly options to consider:
Discover it® Student Cash Back
Earn 5% back on rotating categories (up to $1,500 each quarter), plus 1% on all other purchases.
No annual fee.
Discover it® Student Chrome
Get 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000/quarter), 1% everywhere else.
Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students
Earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on every purchase.
Great for students who love to travel.
Intro bonus: 25,000 points after spending $1,000 in 90 days.
Tip: Always pay off your balance in full to avoid interest and build credit responsibly.
How to Qualify for Student Discounts
Student discounts are usually available to anyone currently enrolled in college or a higher learning institution. You’ll typically need to verify your student status by:
Providing your .edu email address
Showing your school ID
Verifying through a third-party platform like UNiDAYS or Student Beans
Final Tip: Ask Everywhere
Even if it’s not advertised, always ask if a business offers student discounts. You might be surprised how many places say yes.v