In today’s digital world, streaming services are an essential part of student life. Whether it's watching the latest TV shows, movies, or documentaries, students are always looking for ways to access affordable entertainment. Hulu, one of the top streaming platforms, has recognized this need and offers a Hulu Student Discount, making its services more accessible to students at a lower price.
Hulu’s student discount is part of a larger trend among streaming platforms like Spotify that cater specifically to students by offering bundled services at a fraction of the normal cost. In this guide, we’ll explore the details of Hulu’s student discount, how to access it, and how it compares to other streaming discounts available.
What is the Hulu Student Discount?
The Hulu Student Discount offers eligible students access to Hulu’s ad-supported plan at a significantly reduced rate. At just $1.99 per month, students can stream thousands of TV shows, movies, and Hulu Originals. This price is significantly lower than Hulu’s regular price of $7.99 per month for the same plan, making it a highly attractive option for budget-conscious students.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrollment Verification: Students must be enrolled in a U.S.-based college or university to qualify for the discount. Verification is typically done through third-party services like UNiDAYS.
- Plan Availability: The discount applies only to Hulu’s ad-supported plan, meaning students will still experience occasional advertisements during streaming.
- Limited Time Offer: While Hulu does not have a set expiration for the student discount, the offer may not last indefinitely. It’s recommended to take advantage of it as soon as eligibility is confirmed.
How Does It Compare to Other Discounts?
Hulu’s $1.99 student plan is one of the lowest-priced streaming offers available, but it does come with ads. This differs from services like Spotify, which offers ad-free listening for students as part of their bundle, including Hulu and Showtime at $4.99 per month. However, Hulu’s standalone student discount is the cheapest option for those specifically looking for streaming TV shows and movies.
How to Get the Hulu Student Discount
Acquiring the Hulu Student Discount is straightforward but does require some verification steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help students access the discount:
1. Create a Hulu Account
- Go to the Hulu website and sign up for a new account if you don't already have one. Be sure to use an email address associated with your student status.
2. Verify Your Student Status
- Hulu partners with UNiDAYS, a third-party platform that verifies student enrollment. Once you attempt to subscribe to the Hulu Student Plan, you’ll be directed to the UNiDAYS website, where you’ll be required to log in or create an account to prove your student status.
- UNiDAYS is trusted by a variety of platforms to verify student identity, and the process is typically quick, provided you have the necessary documentation (such as a university email or student ID).
3. Complete Payment and Start Streaming
- Once your student status is confirmed, you can complete the sign-up process by entering your payment information. After this, you’re ready to stream Hulu’s extensive catalog at a significantly reduced price.
Pro Tip:
- If you're already using Spotify Premium for Students, you automatically have access to Hulu at no extra cost as part of the Spotify, Hulu, and Showtime bundle.
Benefits of the Hulu Student Discount
The Hulu Student Discount offers more than just a lower price—it provides students with a variety of benefits that make it a top choice among streaming services.
1. Extensive Content Library
- With access to thousands of TV shows, movies, and Hulu Originals, students can enjoy both current series and classic films. Popular shows like "The Handmaid’s Tale," "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," and Hulu-exclusive content keep students engaged for hours.
2. Hulu Originals
- The student discount includes access to Hulu Originals, a collection of exclusive shows and films that can only be streamed on Hulu. With titles like "Little Fires Everywhere" and "Castle Rock," students can enjoy high-quality content at a fraction of the normal price.
3. Simultaneous Streaming
- Hulu allows two devices to stream simultaneously, so students can share their subscription with a roommate or friend without needing separate accounts.
4. On-the-Go Access
- Hulu’s mobile app ensures students can stream their favorite shows on the go, whether they’re between classes or relaxing in the dorm.
5. Budget-Friendly Entertainment
- At $1.99 per month, the Hulu Student Discount is one of the most affordable options for high-quality entertainment, making it ideal for students balancing education and budget constraints.
How Hulu’s Student Discount Compares to Competitors
1. Spotify and Hulu Bundle
- As mentioned earlier, students using Spotify Premium for Students get access to both Hulu’s ad-supported plan and Showtime for $4.99 per month. This bundle is highly attractive for students who want access to both music and streaming content.
2. Apple Music Student Plan
- Apple Music offers a similar $4.99 per month student plan, but this focuses solely on music streaming, without the TV and movie options Hulu provides. It’s a good option for students who prioritize music over other content.
3. Amazon Prime Student
- Amazon’s Prime Student plan offers streaming through Prime Video, alongside other benefits like free shipping and access to exclusive deals, all for $7.49 per month. While it’s more expensive than Hulu, the additional perks may appeal to students who want more than just streaming.
The Drawbacks of Hulu’s Student Discount
While Hulu’s student discount is a fantastic deal, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
1. Ad-Supported Content
- The $1.99 per month plan comes with advertisements, which can interrupt the viewing experience. For students looking for ad-free streaming, this might be a disadvantage compared to other platforms that offer ad-free content at a higher price.
2. Limited Access to Other Services
- Unlike the Spotify bundle, which includes Hulu, Showtime, and Spotify itself, the standalone Hulu Student Discount does not provide access to other streaming platforms or music services. Students who want a wider variety of content may find the Spotify Premium for Students bundle to be a better value.
Conclusion: Is Hulu’s Student Discount Worth It?
For students looking for affordable access to top-tier streaming content, the Hulu Student Discount is an excellent choice. At just $1.99 per month, it provides a vast library of TV shows, movies, and Hulu Originals that can keep any student entertained without breaking the bank. However, students seeking an ad-free experience or access to multiple streaming services may want to consider alternatives like the Spotify Premium for Students bundle.
In conclusion, the Hulu Student Discount offers unbeatable value for students who are primarily interested in TV shows and movies. It’s a must-have for students looking for budget-friendly entertainment, but those seeking a broader range of services might explore other student bundles.
