Best Student Internet Deals and Discounts [CNET]

The fall semester is here. Here’s how you can stay connected while on a budget.

A reliable internet connection is essential for remote learning, homework, Zoom and almost everything. Whether you’re prepping for an exam, doing network calls or simply reading your syllabus, never worry about missing a beat with these student discounts. If you’re a college student on a tight budget or a parent balancing middle school or high school students with an increasing need for internet access, finding a good internet connection is no cheap or easy task. However, some internet providers offer student discounts that make the search easier on the wallet while providing decent internet speeds.

If you want to get nothing but the essential internet service and avoid towering multigigabit speeds while not adding a financial burden on you and your family, we’ve got you covered with a range of discounted internet plans.

Start with federal broadband programs

Before getting bogged down by provider-specific deals, start with useful federal programs that apply to your household. You may be eligible for student discounts if you participate in programs like the Federal Public Housing Assistance, the National School Lunch Program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.

With the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program, the most important cheap internet program to consider joining is Lifeline, which has been around since 1985. It’s often mistaken as a program solely for seniors, but Lifeline assists all low-income households. That makes it a viable option for families with K-12 kids or college students out on their own. Eligibility factors include income of 135% or less than the federal poverty guidelines or participation in federal assistance programs like FPHA or SNAP.

Once you qualify, you get a $9.25 monthly discount on your internet bill or $111 a year off your broadband costs. For those who reside on tribal lands, you could receive up to a $34.25 monthly discount.

In addition, do you know how much speed your household needs? Most discounted plans from internet providers range between 50 and 100Mbps, which isn’t too fast but is sufficient for most online research and Zoom requirements. If you’re looking for speeds beyond that, consider some generally cheap internet plans. However, note that although the starting price can average between $20 and $30, those prices will increase after a year or two of service.

Now, let’s take a look at some of your top internet provider options.

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