Software can be expensive, but as a student, you might not even have to pay! Whether you need Microsoft Office for homework, Adobe Creative Cloud for design projects, or coding tools like JetBrains, there are tons of free and discounted software options. All you need to do is look for it!
Many students don’t have an idea of how many software companies have special offers. Hours spent hunting discounts or, worse, paying full price could be spent on using that premium software for free or at a massive discount. From Microsoft Office to Adobe Creative Cloud, deals abound — you just have to unlock them.
This guide will provide a clear path for finding free or discounted software as a student and claiming discounts on top-rated tools. We’ll help you find everything from productivity apps to cybersecurity programs.
Ready to start saving? Let’s jump right into this and see how you can get the software you need for school with a minimum of cost!
Why Students Should Take Advantage of Software Discounts
As a student, you get access to heaps of free and premium software — most of the time, you can get away with little to no cost. With student discounts, programs like Adobe Creative Cloud can save you hundreds yearly. Whether editing videos, working through code, or organizing assignments, these deals offer pro-level tools without the top-tier price.
Many companies give special student discounts, making premium software free or affordable. Whether you need Microsoft Office, coding tools, or cybersecurity software, there’s probably a student deal for you. Just use a valid .edu email or complete a quick verification process.
Want to save even more? AI platforms like Blitz can help you find the best student software deals. Instead of searching for promo codes, Blitz scans the latest offers and matches you with the best savings based on your needs.
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Best Free Software for Students
Being a student doesn’t mean that you must pay out the nose for software. Regardless of whether you need an app to help you write essays, plan projects (or plans), code, or work on group assignments, there are lots of free tools that make productivity a priority.
From Microsoft Office and Google Workspace to professional design software, these essential resources will ease your academic life. So, let’s take a look at some of the best free software available to download now!
1. Microsoft Office 365 – Free for Students
Microsoft Office 365 is key for students managing presentations, papers, and assignments. You can access Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook. That is, get more done without spending any money. Also, OneDrive provides cloud storage so you can save and open your work from anywhere.
Signing up is easy, just use your .edu email on the Microsoft Education Portal. If your school doesn’t have it, don’t worry — Google Docs and Sheets are great free options. No more excuses for missing deadlines!
2. Google Workspace – Free Cloud-Based Productivity Suite
If you do more work online, Google Workspace is ideal for you. It includes Google Docs, Sheets, a Memo Pad, and 15GB of Drive storage. This is excellent for group projects and keeping files organized.
No complicated setup and no hidden fees, just sign up with a Gmail account, and you’re ready to start. Whether you’re drafting essays, analyzing data, or preparing presentations, everything syncs smoothly across devices.
But there’s more! Google Keep is excellent for note-taking, and Google Calendar helps you keep tabs on assignments and deadlines.
3. Autodesk Software – Free for Engineering & Design Students
Autodesk provides a good opportunity for engineering, architecture, and design students, giving students free access to industry-leading software like AutoCAD, Revit, Fusion 360, and Maya.
This software allows students to design blueprints, 3D models, and animations. If you fall into the design category, this is a deal you don’t want to miss. To claim it, sign up through the Autodesk Education Community with your student info. It’s that simple!
4. JetBrains – Free Coding Software for Students
If you’re into coding, JetBrains is a must-have. Their student program offers IntelliJ IDEA, PyCharm, WebStorm, and more. These tools help you write clean, professional code for websites, apps, and software.
Just use a valid .edu email to register for the JetBrains Student Program. Not ready for JetBrains? VS Code is a fantastic free alternative that’s lightweight and beginner-friendly. You’re set either way!
5. Slack – Free for Student Groups & Collaboration
Group projects can be messy, but Slack makes teamwork easier. With Slack’s student plan, you get organized channels, file sharing, and integrations with Google Drive, Zoom, and Trello. Whether working on a big project or planning a club event, Slack keeps everything organized.
Sign up with your .edu email, and you’re ready to collaborate like a pro. Set up channels for study groups and share memes to keep things fun while being productive!
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Best Discounted Software for Students
Many student discounts on essential software, from design tools to antivirus programs. Whether you edit videos, write essays, or enjoy Spotify, these offers will save you money. Let’s dive in!
6. Adobe Creative Cloud – 60% Off for Students
Students passionate about graphic design, video editing, or digital art will need Adobe Creative Cloud. From Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro to After Effects and beyond, the toolkit allows you to design amazing images, synchronize professional-quality videos, and transform your creative concepts into reality.
Adobe’s tools help you stand out, whether you’re designing a logo, editing YouTube videos, or working on an art project. Students get a whopping 60% discount, paying just $19.99/month instead of the original $60. Verify your student status through Adobe’s Student Plan, and you’re good to go. But, if you need basic design features, Canva is a good, free option for social media posts, presentations, posters, or simple graphics.
7. Norton Antivirus – 50% Off for Students
There’s no joke when it comes to online security, particularly when you’re using public WiFi. Norton Antivirus shields against hackers, malware, and phishing scams. Having real-time threat detection, a secure VPN, and a password manager, Norton keeps your devices protected wherever you are.
Students can save 50% via the Norton Student Program, making it an inexpensive method of protecting laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Claiming it is simple—just sign up through the Norton Student Program.
If you need more security deals, Blitz’s AI tool can help you find the best cybersecurity offers tailored to your needs.
8. Spotify Premium – 50% Off for Students
Spotify Premium ensures you get the best music experience without interruptions, making sure you have the perfect soundtrack to complete college life. Listen ad-free listening, offline downloads, and unlimited skips for just $5.99/month, then $9.99/month.
Getting the discount is easy — just verify your student status on the Spotify Student Plan page. If you prefer watching, you can also get a student discount for YouTube Premium, which gives you an ad-free experience, background play, and offline downloads. These student-friendly offers guarantee endless entertainment whenever you want it.
9. Grammarly Premium – 50% Off for Students
Grammarly Premium is a good tool to craft top-caliber writing, whether you are writing essays, emails, or reports, as it improves grammar, clarity, and detects plagiarism. Students get 50% off — no more excuses for typos.
Signing up is easy — just register through Grammarly’s Student Plan. Want more savings? Blitz’s AI platform can help find additional writing tool discounts.
10. Parallels Desktop – 50% Off for Students
Mac owners, this one’s directed at you. Parallels Desktop allows you to run Windows software without restarting. It’s essential for students needing Windows-only apps, and you get 50% off the regular price.
Signing up is simple, just register through the Parallels Student Program. If you juggle macOS and Windows, this tool is a lifesaver.
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How to Find More Free & Discounted Software?
Finding free or discounted software is simple. Here are the best ways to get premium tools without spending much.
- Use Blitz for AI deals: Blitz finds the best student software deals and suggests the best discounts based on your major. No more endless searching!
- Check your university’s tech store: Many schools give out free software licenses or student discounts for programs like Microsoft Office, Adobe, and coding tools.
- Look for student bundles: Some companies offer multiple tools at a lower price. Adobe and Autodesk often have these deals!
- Take advantage of free trials: Many paid programs provide free trials. Set reminders to cancel if you don’t want the full version.
- Sign up with a .edu email: Many companies give discounts or free access when you register with a student email.
- Use student discount platforms: Websites like UNiDAYS and Student Beans show exclusive software deals for students, making it easy to find discounts.
- Follow brands on social media: Some companies share limited-time student discount codes on Instagram or Twitter, so watch for flash sales.
- Ask your professors or IT department: Some schools partner with software providers for free student access — always worth checking!
With these tips, you’ll never pay full price for software again!
FAQs About Free & Discounted Software for Students
How do I qualify for student software discounts?
Most companies need you to prove your student status. You can use a .edu email or platforms like UNiDAYS, Student Beans, or SheerID. Some brands also accept school ID uploads. Once verified, you’ll access exclusive discounts or free software plans made for students.
Can I still use student software discounts after graduation?
It varies by company. Some brands let students keep their discounts for up to six months after graduation. Others may extend benefits if you join a graduate program. Always check your student subscription terms before graduating to avoid losing access early.
How does Blitz help students find software discounts?
Blitz’s AI searches the web for the latest student software deals. It recommends the best offers based on your usage. Instead of spending hours searching, Blitz personalizes your discounts, ensuring you get great deals on productivity, design, and learning tools easily.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Students can save hundreds of dollars by exploiting free and discounted software for academics, entertainment, and cybersecurity. Whether you need Microsoft Office for assignments, Adobe Creative Cloud for design work, or Grammarly to perfect your essays, these deals make premium tools affordable or even free.
Now is the moment to act. To maximize your savings, sign up for Blitz, as well as the best student discount sites. Download the app here.
Don’t wait for your next subscription renewal to start saving and snatch up on these deals today and give your student perks a run for their money.
