Let’s be honest—every dollar or pound matters when you’re a student. You’re always hunting for the best deals between tuition, textbooks, and takeout. So naturally, the question arises: Does Netflix have a student discount?

If you’ve ever typed this into Google, hoping to save a few bucks while binge-watching your favorite shows, you’re not alone. Streaming services can add up quickly, especially if you’re subscribed to Netflix, Spotify, Hulu, Disney+, and more. With Netflix being one of the most expensive streaming platforms, it’s only natural to wonder if students get a special break.

Here’s the quick answer: No, Netflix does not currently offer a student discount in the USA or the UK. But don’t stop reading just yet—because while there’s no official student pricing, there are clever workarounds, shared plans, and smarter ways to stream without breaking the bank.

Let’s break it all down, shall we?

Why Doesn’t Netflix Offer a Student Discount?

Netflix has grown into a global streaming giant. Unlike Spotify, Amazon Prime, or Apple Music, which all have student discount plans, Netflix has never officially introduced one. Here’s why:

1. Brand Positioning

Netflix sees itself as a premium service with top-tier original content. Offering discounts might dilute that premium branding, at least from a corporate perspective.

2. Pricing Strategy

Netflix already offers multiple plans at different price points (more on that later). They expect users to pick what works for their budget instead of creating special categories.

3. Crackdown on Shared Accounts

As of 2024 and now into 2025, Netflix has made it clear they’re prioritizing account integrity over shared access. Offering student discounts could complicate their verification system even further.

So, What Are Your Options as a Student?

Just because Netflix doesn’t have a direct student discount doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Here are practical, legal, and ethical ways to reduce your Netflix expenses if you’re living in the US or the UK.

1. Split a Netflix Plan with Friends or Family

Netflix’s Standard and Premium plans allow for multiple streams and profiles. Here’s how the math works out:

UK equivalent:

Tip: Always share with people you trust. Netflix’s password-sharing crackdown requires all users to be in the same household or use extra member add-ons.

2. Look for Student Deals on Bundled Services

While Netflix doesn’t do student pricing, others do—and some bundles might give you access to Netflix as part of a package.

In the USA:

• T-Mobile’s Go5G Plus includes Netflix Basic for free (or Netflix Standard at a discount).

• Some Verizon plans offer discounted streaming services via bundles. Keep an eye on promotions.

In the UK:

• EE, O2, and Vodafone sometimes include entertainment packs in mobile plans. While Netflix isn’t always on the list, bundles can reduce your overall streaming costs.

3. Switch to Ad-Supported Plan (US & UK)

Netflix now offers an ad-supported plan in both the US and the UK, priced significantly lower than traditional plans.

• USA: $6.99/month

• UK: £4.99/month

This version includes a few ads but offers most of Netflix’s content library. It’s perfect for students trying to save.

Heads-up: Not all shows and movies are available on the ad-supported plan, and downloads aren’t supported.

Read Also: 10 Side Hustles for Students That Don’t Disrupt Class

4. Use Netflix Gift Cards or Discounted Top-Ups

You can sometimes find discounted Netflix gift cards on Amazon, PayPal, or even physical stores during promotional sales (especially during Black Friday or back-to-school periods). Sites like Raise.com or VoucherCodes.co.uk may also have occasional offers.

Using a discounted gift card is essentially a backdoor way to save money on your subscription.

5. Pause and Rotate Subscriptions

Here’s a smart student hack: Rotate your subscriptions.

• Month 1: Netflix

• Month 2: Hulu or Disney+

• Month 3: Prime Video

You binge on what you want, then cancel and switch. This technique prevents you from paying for all platforms simultaneously and keeps things fresh.

Netflix allows you to cancel anytime and keeps your viewing history for 10 months. So you can always come back right where you left off.

6. Watch with Friends via Netflix Party (Teleparty)

You don’t need your own Netflix subscription to watch with friends. Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party) lets you watch synced shows with others. If a friend has an account and is streaming, you can still enjoy the content together—great for movie nights or study breaks.

Student-Friendly Netflix Alternatives with Actual Discounts

If you’re feeling priced out, consider these student-friendly streaming services:

These services might not have “Stranger Things,” but they still offer tons of top-tier content at a student-friendly rate.

Common Questions Students Ask About Netflix Discounts

1. Can I get Netflix for free as a student?

Technically, no. Netflix does not offer free trials or free student plans anymore. However, joining a family plan or using a mobile bundle might make it feel “free.”

2. Is there a Netflix student discount code?

No. Be cautious—many websites claim to offer “Netflix student coupon codes” or “free accounts.” Most are scams or phishing attempts. Stick to verified discounts and gift cards only.

3. Can I use Student Beans or UNiDAYS for Netflix?

Unfortunately, Netflix isn’t a partner with Student Beans or UNiDAYS as of now. You won’t find verified student codes through these platforms.

4. Will Netflix ever offer a student discount?

It’s unclear. Given Netflix’s current business model and focus on password-sharing crackdowns, a dedicated student discount seems unlikely, at least soon.

Final Thoughts: What Should You Do?

Let’s recap.

• Does Netflix have a student discount? No, but…

• You can still save smartly by sharing plans, switching to ad-supported versions, rotating your subscriptions, or using discounted gift cards.

• You might even find better value with alternative streaming services that do offer genuine student pricing.

• Netflix may not give you a direct break, but with some savvy thinking, you can still enjoy premium entertainment without draining your student budget.

Read Also: How to Save Money as a College Student

So next time you want to unwind after a tough exam or long lecture, know that Netflix is still within reach—you just have to be a little smarter about it.

Take Action Now

• Check your mobile carrier’s perks (T-Mobile, EE, Vodafone)

• Explore the ad-supported plan

• Consider rotating your subscriptions monthly

• Share a Premium plan with trusted housemates or family

• Use discounted Netflix gift cards during seasonal sales

Being a student doesn’t mean you need to miss out—just stream smarter.