Best Student Internet Deals and Discounts for 2025
A dependable home internet connection is essential for remote learning, homework, Zoom and pretty much everything else. Whether you're a college student on a tight budget or a parent balancing middle school or high school students with increasing internet needs, you'll need a good internet connection , which doesn't always come cheap.
We've got you covered with the best programs and discounts internet providers currently offer. We have a roundup of the best-discounted internet plans if you're looking for a basic internet service (think around 100Mbps) and trying to avoid costly multigigabit speeds .
Start with federal broadband programs
Before you get bogged down by provider-specific deals, start with useful federal programs that apply to your household. You may be eligible for student discounts if you participate in programs like the Federal Public Housing Assistance , the National School Lunch Program , the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families .
The end of the Affordable Connectivity Program in May 2024 disconnected millions of eligible Americans benefitting from a $30 discount on their internet bills and there has yet to be government programming to substantially replace the program. But you may find some savings with the Lifeline program, which has been around since 1985. Lifeline only offers a $9.25 monthly discount on your internet bill, but that's $111 a year in broadband savings, and those who reside on tribal lands could receive up to a $34.25 monthly discount.
Often mistaken as a program solely for seniors , Lifeline assists all low-income households, making it a viable option for families with K-12 kids or college students out on their own. Eligibility factors include income of 135% or less than the federal poverty guidelines or participation in federal assistance programs like FPHA or SNAP.
Here are some things to note while shopping for the internet: keep in mind how much speed your household needs . Most discounted plans from internet providers range between 50 and 100Mbps, which isn't too fast but is sufficient for online research, sending emails and Zoom requirements, granted there aren't other heavy internet users in the house like remote workers or gamers. If you're looking for faster speeds , consider some generally cheap internet plans that don't require proof of income or participation in federal assistance programs. Just note that although the starting price can average between $20 and $30, those prices often increase after a year or two of service.
Now, let's take a look at some of the internet options for students on a budget.
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Student internet deals and discounts FAQs
Will AT&T give students a discount on internet service?
AT&T does not have a home internet discount program specific to students. They do have a discount plan called Access from AT&T that is aimed toward homes with participants in Head Start or the NSLP. This is not to be confused with AT&T's wireless plans, which do offer discounts based on school or university eligibility.
Does the government offer free internet?
To find the best government programming or discounts on the internet, you'll have to turn to federal programs like Lifeline, which can offer $9.25 off your monthly bill, or discounts offered by internet providers themselves. The ending of the Affordable Connectivity Program facilitated the loss of essential internet discounts (up to $30 off per month) across the country, a gap that has yet to be adequately filled by government programming.
Which internet providers feature broadband plans for $10 a month?
Cox's Connect2Compete features 100Mbps for $10 a month, while Astound Broadband provides a 50Mbps plan for $10 a month with its Internet First program and Xfinity's Internet Essentials plan is 50Mbps for $10 a month.
