Why More Companies Are Giving Students Free Premium Access—And How You Can Benefit
In recent years, a growing number of companies—from tech giants to niche startups—have started offering free premium subscriptions or services exclusively to students. Whether it’s design software, streaming platforms, productivity tools, or even cloud storage, these perks are designed to empower learners while creating long-term value for businesses. But what’s driving this trend, and how can students make the most of these opportunities? Let’s dive in.
The Rise of Student-Centric Perks
The concept isn’t entirely new. For decades, software companies like Adobe and Microsoft have provided discounted licenses to students. However, the shift from discounted to free premium access reflects a broader change in how businesses view education. Today, companies recognize that students aren’t just a demographic with limited budgets—they’re future professionals, influencers, and decision-makers. By investing in students early, brands build loyalty and familiarity that can pay off for years.
Take Adobe, for example. Its Creative Cloud suite, which includes tools like Photoshop and Premiere Pro, is a staple in creative industries. By offering free access to verified students, Adobe ensures that the next generation of designers, filmmakers, and marketers grows up using its ecosystem. When these students enter the workforce, they’re more likely to advocate for Adobe tools at their companies.
Why Would Companies Do This?
1. Building Brand Loyalty
Students who grow accustomed to a platform are likelier to stick with it long-term. Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music have mastered this strategy. By offering free or discounted premium tiers to students, they create habits that persist even after graduation.
2. Social Responsibility and Goodwill
Supporting education aligns with corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals. Companies like GitHub (owned by Microsoft) provide free developer tools to students, framing it as a way to “empower the next generation of software innovators.” This not only boosts their reputation but also fosters goodwill within communities.
3. Data and Feedback
Student users often provide valuable insights. Younger audiences are tech-savvy and vocal about their preferences, helping companies refine products. For instance, Canva’s free education program has allowed the design platform to gather feedback from millions of students, shaping features tailored to classroom and project needs.
4. Partnerships with Schools
Some companies collaborate directly with educational institutions. Google Workspace for Education, for example, partners with schools to offer free cloud-based tools. These partnerships often lead to broader institutional adoption of paid services down the line.
How Students Can Access Free Premium Services
Curious about how to claim these benefits? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Verify Your Student Status
Most companies require proof of enrollment. Services like SheerID or UNiDAYS are commonly used to confirm eligibility. You’ll typically need a school email address, a current class schedule, or a student ID.
2. Explore Industry-Specific Offers
– Tech & Design: Autodesk, Figma, and GitHub offer free professional tools.
– Productivity: Notion, Todoist, and Grammarly have student discounts or free tiers.
– Entertainment: Platforms like Amazon Prime Student bundle video streaming, discounts, and study resources.
3. Check Time Limits
Some offers expire after a set period (e.g., four years) or when you graduate. Mark your calendar to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Combine Offers
Many students qualify for multiple programs. For instance, pairing Microsoft’s free Office 365 with Dropbox’s expanded student storage can streamline academic work.
The Hidden Gems You Might Not Know About
Beyond the obvious candidates, lesser-known companies are also jumping on board:
– Language Learning: Duolingo Plus is free for students in certain regions.
– Cybersecurity: Brands like NordVPN offer discounted plans to protect research and personal data.
– Coding Resources: Platforms like Codecademy Pro and JetBrains IDE licenses are often included in university partnerships.
What’s Next for Student Benefits?
The trend shows no signs of slowing. Two developments to watch:
1. Industry Expansion: Expect more sectors—like fintech, health, and AI—to launch student programs. For example, financial literacy apps could offer free premium features to teach budgeting skills.
2. Global Accessibility: While many offers target Western markets, companies are expanding to developing regions. Coursera, for instance, partners with governments to provide free certifications to students worldwide.
A Win-Win for Everyone
For students, free premium access removes financial barriers to essential tools. Imagine a film student editing their first short film on free Adobe Premiere or a computer science major building apps with GitHub’s resources. These opportunities level the playing field, allowing talent to flourish regardless of economic background.
For companies, it’s a strategic investment. Even if only a fraction of student users become paying customers later, the brand recognition and trust built during their academic years are invaluable.
Final Tips for Maximizing Free Premium Offers
– Stay Organized: Keep track of expiration dates and renewal requirements.
– Share Feedback: Companies often listen closely to student users. Your suggestions could shape future features.
– Explore Bundles: Some services, like Apple’s Education Store, combine hardware discounts with free software.
In a world where education and technology are increasingly intertwined, free premium offerings aren’t just a perk—they’re a bridge to opportunity. For students, the message is clear: Take advantage of these resources while you can. For companies, it’s a reminder that investing in education isn’t just good ethics; it’s smart business.
Please indicate: Thinking In Educating » Why More Companies Are Giving Students Free Premium Access—And How You Can Benefit