College life can be a whirlwind of classes, assignments, and social activities, leaving little
time—or money—for much else. But when you do get that rare moment to unwind, streaming services can be your best friend. As a college student, you’re likely working on a tight budget, so it’s essential to know which streaming platforms offer the best deals tailored for your needs. Here’s how you can discover the best streaming services and take advantage of all they have to offer.
1. Student Discounts: Your First Stop
Many streaming services recognize that students are often strapped for cash and offer
significant discounts to help ease the financial burden. For instance, Spotify Premium offers
student discount that bundles its music streaming service with Hulu and SHOWTIME, all for a
fraction of the regular price. Amazon Prime Student is another great example; for half the price
of a regular Prime membership, students get access to Prime Video, as well as other perks like
free shipping and exclusive deals. To find these discounts, start by visiting the websites of the
streaming services you’re interested in. Most platforms prominently display their student
discount offers on their homepage or under a dedicated “Student” section. Additionally, sites like
UNi days and Student Beans compile lists of student discounts across various industries,
including streaming services, making them excellent resources for discovering deals.
2. Utilizing Free Trials
Before committing to a subscription, take advantage of the free trials provided by most
streaming platforms. Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+ all provide a 7- to 30-day free trial, giving you plenty of time to explore their libraries and decide whether they’re worth the investment. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to cancel before the trial ends if you decide it’s not for you—this way, you can enjoy premium content for free.
3. Bundles and Shared Accounts
Bundle services might also help you receive more content for less money. As previously stated, Spotify’s student package includes Hulu and SHOWTIME at no additional cost. Disney provides a package that includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for a lower price than subscribing to each individually. Keep an eye out for these packages, especially if they contain services you now use or intend to subscribe to. Furthermore, many streaming providers allow account sharing with family and friends, which can drastically reduce expenditures. Netflix and Hulu, for example, provide numerous account tiers that allow for simultaneous streaming across many devices, making them ideal for sharing with roommates or friends.
4. Utilize educational resources
Many colleges and universities provide access to instructional streaming platforms through their library services. Platforms such as kanopy and Films on Demand offer a diverse selection of documentaries, instructional films, and independent films. These services are frequently included in your tuition, so make sure to check out what your school library has to offer.
5.Stay up to current on promotions
Streaming services frequently run discounts that might result in big savings. To keep informed, sign up for newsletters or follow your favorite streaming platforms on social media. Keep an eye on third-party deal sites such as Groupon or Slickdeals, which frequently have limited-time specials on streaming services.
Streaming services can be an excellent way to unwind and enjoy your free time at college, but you must be careful with your finances. You can save money on content by taking advantage of student discounts, free trials, bundles, and shared accounts. Stay up to date on the latest discounts and take advantage of what’s available to you, so you can enjoy all of the entertainment you need without breaking the bank.
