Best Student Discounts for Internet, Cable TV, and Mobile Service Providers

Since the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has been discontinued, it’s more important now than ever to find low-cost Internet, cable, and mobile services. Whether you’re the parent of a K-12 child or a college student, there are Internet, cable TV, and mobile plans available that meet your needs and fit your budget.

Here’s how to spot the latest student discounts and choose providers that offer students the best bang for your buck.

How to Find Student Discounts

Some major providers offer student discounts, but not all the time. That’s why it’s important to keep your eyes open for deals and take advantage of them as quickly as you can. Here are a few tips for finding the best student discounts:

1. Do Your Research: Regularly visit provider websites or our Back to School Internet page for the latest updates.
2. Check if You’re Eligible: Ensure you meet income, location, and other criteria for the programs that interest you.
3. Compare Offers & Discounts: Use comparison tools and websites like SmartMove to compare plans and choose the option that fits your needs.

Am I Eligible for a Student Discount?

Common eligibility requirements for student discount assistance programs include:

• Enrollment Verification: Proof of current enrollment, such as a student ID, registration letter, or a “.edu” email address.
• Age Restrictions: Some discounts may be limited to students within a certain age range.
• Student Status: Discounts often apply to full-time students, though part-time students may also qualify.

Depending on the program and Internet service provider, you may be required to show proof that you meet all eligibility requirements. This may include submitting your student ID, using verification services, and furnishing other relevant documentation.

Providers That May Offer Student Discounts for Internet, TV and Phone Service

Xfinity

Xfinity offers special student deals that include faster Internet speeds and free access to Xfinity hotspots. Plus, special promotions specifically for college students.

• Internet: Plans start at $25/month for eligible students, including a free virtual Internet card and free equipment.
• TV: Bundles with discounted TV packages are available for all customers.
• Mobile: Xfinity Mobile offers competitive pricing for mobile plans.

See Xfinity TV, Internet, and Phone Plans Near You

Spectrum

Spectrum is dedicated to providing students with affordable Internet plans (with extra perks) so they can study, save money, and stay connected with fast and reliable Internet.

• Internet: Student Internet plans from 300 Mbps up to 1 Gbps, start at $49.99/month.
• TV: Affordable TV packages and discounted bundles are available for everyone.
• Mobile: Spectrum Mobile offers unlimited data with phone plans, starting at $29.99/month.

See Spectrum TV, Internet, and Phone Plans Near You

Cox

If you have at least one K-12 student in your household and meet other criteria, you may be eligible for Cox’s Connect2Compete program.

• Internet: Plans start at $9.95/month (no term agreements), including up to 100 Mbps download speeds, free WiFi modem rental, and no credit checks.
• TV: Cox offers a variety of affordable cable TV packages to suit the entertainment needs of any student.
• Mobile: From affordable unlimited data plans to ‘Pay as You Gig’ plans, Cox offers plenty of reasonably priced mobile plans to fit the budget of parents and college students.

See Cox TV, Internet, and Phone Plans Near You

Optimum

The Optimum Advantage Internet plan offers qualifying students (and other eligible first-time customers) high-speed Internet at a discounted rate. Plus, they offer special savings and promos for college students.

• Internet: Plans start at $14.99/month, no contracts, up to 50 Mbps, and no data caps.
• TV: Bundle your TV, Internet, and mobile for even more discounts.
• Mobile: Unlimited plans (talk & text) start at $15/month (including 1 GB data), available for new Optimum Mobile lines only.

See Optimum TV, Internet, and Phone Plans Near You

Xtream by Mediacom

Children who come from low-income households, enrolled in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), and live in an area where Xtream is available may be eligible for Mediacom Connect2Compete.

• Internet: Plans start at $28.99/month with up to 100 Mbps download speeds, no deposits, no contracts, and waived installation fees.
• TV: Xtream offers TV packages that are affordable, robust, and packed with extras.

See Mediacom TV & Internet Plans Near You

Sparklight

the K-12 Bridge to Broadband initiative, Sparklight will partner directly with school districts to identify families in need and provide them with affordable high-speed Internet.

• Internet: Sparklight has affordable Internet plans for all needs with pricing that varies based on location and package.
• TV: Customize your features or select a bundle to lower costs and fit your budget.

See Sparklight TV & Internet Plans Near You

GCI

Primarily serving Alaska, GCI provides affordable and reliable coverage for many of Alaska’s urban and rural residents.

• Internet: You get a free streaming device, premium WiFi, and streaming device with GCI’s Internet plans.
• TV: From basic to premium plans, there are plenty of affordable cable TV options for students of all ages in Alaska.
• Mobile: Bundle your Internet plan with GCI mobile and receive even more discounts on Alaska’s fastest network.

See GCI TV, Internet, and Phone Plans Near You

Armstrong

Armstrong is committed to providing customers in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, West Virginia, Kentucky, and New York, with cost-effective Internet and TV deals.

• Internet: Pricing varies by location and plan. Packages include enhanced WiFi capabilities, advanced security features, and blazing fast Internet.
• TV: Get extra discounts when you bundle your TV and Internet plans.

See Armstrong TV & Internet Plans Near You

MCTV

Serving the residents of Ohio and West Virginia, MCTV offers affordable Internet and TV plans for everyone.

• Internet: Prices vary depending on location, 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps, with no data caps or modem fees.
• TV: There are cable TV plans that fit every lifestyle and budget, including on-demand content.

See MCTV TV & Internet Plans Near You

Hargray

With unbeatable local customer service, competitive prices, and reliable service, Hargray offers an incredible deal to all of its customers.

• Internet: Plans start at $39.95/month and come with no contracts and a $200 credit to cover your termination fee when switching from your current provider.
• TV: Digital TV service plans start at $30/month. You can save even more money on your TV and Internet when you bundle all of your services.

See Hargray TV & Internet Plans Near You

Additional Tips for Students

Maximizing your savings is more science than art. In addition to advertised student discount programs, there are plenty of ways for students and parents to save money:

• Check out SmartMove’s Back to School page for more resources.
• If possible, combine student discounts with other promotions.
• Consider bundling your Internet, TV, and mobile services to lower your bill.
• Regularly check for the best student Internet provider deals.
• Don’t hesitate to negotiate for hidden discounts.
• Be wary of data caps, speed throttling, and other contract obligations.
• Think about splitting costs with roommates.
• Compare the cost of renting vs. buying your equipment.
• Explore loyalty discounts and referral programs.
• Be prepared to switch providers if a better deal (with comparable services) becomes available. This is especially true if you’re not happy with the results of your Internet speed test or current rates.
• Search for government programs that offer discounted or free Internet for military families, veterans, or those living under the federal poverty guidelines.

Depending on your financial circumstances, you may be eligible for the Lifeline program, which is backed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to give qualifying families a monthly discount on home Internet services.

Additionally, some providers offer auto-pay credits, free cell phones, waived activation fees, etc. However, they’re not always easy to find. The good news is, we’re here to help.

How SmartMove Can Help Students Find Affordable Service

SmartMove simplifies the process of finding the best phone, Internet, and cell phone plans. We offer industry-leading tools to help you compare providers, explore deals, and get connected as fast as possible. Ready to shop for the perfect plan? Enter your address in the field below to get started today.