Written by: Brooke Gaines
May 17, 2025

Netflix remains a go-to streaming platform for students, thanks to its massive library of movies, series, and trending originals. However, it’s important to note that Netflix does not offer a student discount or any exclusive pricing for students.

That said, if you’re a budget-conscious learner, there are still a few clever ways to access Netflix at a lower cost. In this article, we’ll explore those cost-saving strategies and clever workarounds that can help reduce your monthly bill.

I’ll also highlight streaming platforms that do offer student discounts, so you can find the best deal for your needs.

Why Doesn’t Netflix Offer A Student Discount?

Unlike other streaming services, Netflix maintains a pricing structure for all its subscribers, regardless of their status.

A majority of Netflix users are students, and it may not make sense to offer a student discount for Netflix, as it would hamper their potential subscription revenue.

Netflix does not offer any kind of discounts or free plans for students to try the platform, and hence, alternative methods need to be considered.

Is There A Netflix Free Trial?

Students cannot get a Netflix free trial either, as Netflix has discontinued its free trial program. New subscribers are now required to sign up for a paid plan from the start. 

Netflix Free Trial

A solution to this is that, Netflix allows users to cancel their subscription at any time without penalty, so you can still try the service and cancel if you’re not satisfied.

Did you know?Statistical data on Netflix reveals that, over 72% Of Internet users aged between 18 And 29 years have reported that they use Netflix as a streaming service.  

How Can Students Reduce The Cost Of Netflix?

While there’s no official student discount, there are still ways for budget-conscious students to access Netflix more affordably. 

Students Reduce the Cost of Netflix

By setting up a Netflix Household account, you can reduce the cost of streaming Netflix to half or even a quarter of the standard price. 

  1. Get a plan with family – Netflix Premium with 4 devices streaming simultaneously

Netflix’s household account system allows for multiple users within the same household to share a subscription. 

Students living at home can take advantage of this by joining their family’s Netflix Premium plan, which allows for up to 4 simultaneous streams. This is a completely legitimate way to access Netflix at a reduced personal cost.

  1. Get Netflix Premium with Room/College mates

Similarly, what university students can do is, split the cost of a Netflix Premium subscription with roommates or college friends. 

By dividing the monthly fee among 4 people, each individual’s share becomes much more budget-friendly.

Apart from the above two ways, there are no direct ways to save up on a Netflix subscription for a student.

Note: There exists other ways where you may bundle a Netflix subscription with a mobile, cable internet, or other such services, but you will effectively end up paying more than a Netflix subscription with those options, defeating the whole purpose.

Alternatives To Netflix Student Discount

If you’re looking for streaming options with dedicated student discounts, consider these alternatives instead of Netflix:

1. Amazon Prime Student Discount

Discount50% off
Price without discount$14.99/month
Price with discount$7.49/month
Know moreAmazon Prime Student Discount

Amazon Prime Student offers an excellent value proposition for college students. This discounted membership provides access to Prime Video’s extensive streaming library, which includes popular movies, TV shows, and Amazon Originals. 

Amazon Prime Student Discount

Additionally, students receive benefits like free two-day shipping, Prime Music, and exclusive deals. The service begins with a generous 6-month free trial and a 50% discount on the regular Prime membership price.

Prime Video’s library includes a mix of popular third-party content and original productions like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “The Boys.” The platform also offers additional channels like HBO or Showtime for an extra fee. 

Pros:

  • Comprehensive benefits beyond just video streaming
  • Long free trial period
  • Significant discount (50%)

Cons:

  • Limited to 4 years or until graduation
  • Requires a .edu email address for verification

2. HBO Max Student Discount

Discount50% off
Price without discount$9.99/month
Price with discount$4.99/month
Know moreHBO Max Student Discount

HBO Max offers a substantial 50% discount for college students, providing access to its premium content library. This includes critically acclaimed HBO originals, blockbuster movies, and exclusive Max Original series. 

HBO Max Student Discount

The student discount applies to the ad-supported plan, offering high-quality, award-winning content at a reduced rate.

HBO Max is known for its high-quality original programming, including series like “Game of Thrones”, “Succession”, and “Euphoria”. The platform also features a rotating selection of popular movies and complete series from networks like CNN, TNT, and Cartoon Network. A major perk is the inclusion of same-day theatrical releases for many Warner Bros. films. 

Pros:

  • High-quality, award-winning content
  • Ad-free streaming at a discounted rate
  • Includes same-day theatrical releases for many Warner Bros. films

Cons:

  • More expensive than some other student streaming options
  • Discount only applies to the ad-supported plan

Bonus: Among HBO Max Vs Netflix, check out which platform is the best overall.

3. Hulu Student Discount

Discount80% off
Price without discount$9.99/month
Price with discount$1.99/month
Know moreHulu Student Discount

Hulu offers an impressive 80% discount for students, bringing the cost of their ad-supported plan down to just $1.99 per month. This gives students access to a vast library of current TV shows, movies, and Hulu originals. 

Hulu Student Discount

One of the biggest advantages is the ability to watch many current TV shows the day after they air.

Hulu’s library includes content from major networks like ABC, NBC, and Fox, as well as original series like “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “Only Murders in the Building.” 

The platform also offers live TV options and add-ons like HBO or Showtime for additional fees. This discount can be bundled with the Spotify Premium Student discount for even more savings. 

Pros:

  • Substantial discount
  • Next-day streaming for many current TV shows
  • Can be bundled with Spotify Premium Student for additional savings

Cons:

  • Ad-supported plan only
  • Some content still has ads even with No Ads plan

4. Peacock Student Discount

ParameterValue
Discount62% off
Price without discount$7.99/month
Price with discount$2.99/month
Know morePeacock Student Discount

Peacock offers a significant 62% discount for students on their Peacock Premium plan. This discounted subscription includes access to live sports, current NBC shows, and Peacock originals. 

The affordable pricing and inclusion of live sports content make this an attractive option for many students.

Peacock Student Discount

Peacock’s library includes popular NBC series like “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation”, as well as original content like “Bel-Air” and “Dr. Death”. 

The platform also provides access to current NBC shows shortly after they air and features a selection of live sports content, including Premier League soccer matches. 

Pros:

  • Affordable pricing
  • Includes live sports content
  • Access to current NBC shows

Cons:

  • Smaller content library compared to some competitors
  • Some content still requires additional payment

5. Paramount+ Student Discount

ParameterValue
Discount25% off
Price without discount$7.99/month
Price with discount$5.99/month
Know moreParamount+ Student Discount 

Paramount+ offers a 25% discount for students on their Essential plan. This service provides access to a wide range of content from CBS, MTV, and Nickelodeon. 

Paramount+ Student Discount

A significant advantage is the inclusion of live CBS streaming, which is excellent for sports fans and those who enjoy current network programming.

Paramount+ features a diverse library, including popular series from CBS, Nickelodeon, and MTV and original content like “Star Trek: Discovery” and “The Good Fight.”

 The platform also offers live sports content, including NFL games and UEFA Champions League matches. 

Pros:

  • Includes live CBS streaming
  • Access to exclusive Paramount+ original content
  • Competitive Pricing

Cons:

  • Smaller discount compared to some other services
  • Ad-supported plan only

6. Free Streaming Services

For the most budget-conscious students, several free streaming platforms offer content without any subscription fees:

  • Tubi 

This ad-supported service offers a large library of movies and TV shows from major studios and networks. It features a user-friendly interface and regularly updates its content selection. 

Tubi

Tubi’s library includes thousands of titles across various genres, making it a great option for casual viewing.

Link Watch Tubi for free

  • Pluto TV 

Owned by Paramount, Pluto TV provides both live TV channels and on-demand content for free. 

Pluto TV

It offers a diverse range of programming options, including news, sports, and entertainment. The service features a unique linear TV-like experience with themed channels.

Link Watch Pluto TV for free

  • Crackle 

Sony’s free streaming service offers a rotating selection of movies, TV shows, and original programming. While it has ads, they are generally less frequent than traditional TV. 

Crackle

Crackle’s library includes a mix of classic titles and more recent releases, and some original content.

Link Watch Crackle for Free

  • Kanopy 

Many universities provide free access to Kanopy, a streaming service that features critically acclaimed movies, documentaries, and educational content. 

Kanopy

It’s an excellent resource for students looking for high-quality, thought-provoking content without any additional cost.

Link Watch Kanopy for free

Netflix Subscription Prices

If you decide that Netflix is still the best option for you, it’s worth noting that you can always sign up for a single month to binge-watch a particular show or movie. Netflix plans start at just $6.99 per month. 

Here’s a breakdown of their current pricing structure:

PlanPriceKey Features
Basic with ads$7.99/month1 supported device, HD available, with ads
Standard$17.99/month2 supported devices, Full HD, downloads on 2 devices, option to add 1 extra member
Premium$24.99/month4 supported devices, 4K Ultra HD, downloads on 6 devices, option to add 2 extra members

Unlike many other streaming services, Netflix does not offer an annual subscription plan that allows you to save money in the long term. Therefore, you can cancel your Netflix subscription at any time.

Bonus: Find rare content on Netflix using these unique Netflix Secret Codes that you cannot usually.

Conclusion: Look for Netflix Alternatives For A Student Discount

Although Netflix doesn’t offer a dedicated student discount, interested students can still enjoy premium content without overspending. Opting for a Netflix Household account—shared with family or trusted roommates—can significantly reduce costs.

Pair this with student discounts on alternative platforms and free streaming options, and you’ll have a budget-friendly entertainment lineup that doesn’t sacrifice variety or quality.

Don’t forget to review your subscriptions regularly to ensure you’re getting maximum value. With the tips and alternatives in this guide, saving on streaming is easier than ever.

Ready to binge smarter? Explore the student deals and free streaming platforms above to find your ideal match!