Stretch Your Budget: Free Resources & Student Discounts

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Whether you’re new on campus or a seasoned student, college life comes as a challenging transition to navigate. From juggling a heavy course load and  balancing new found freedom to learning to stretch a tight budget. The Los Angeles Film School understands how overwhelming this transition can be, and we’re here to help make student life a little easier.

Below, you’ll find a curated list of free resources and exclusive student discounts on tech, travel, fashion, and more! All to help you save, while getting the most out of your college experience.

How to Access

Most student discounts aren’t automatic—you’ll need to verify that you’re currently enrolled. The good news is it’s quick and easy, and once you’re verified, you’ll unlock a ton of great deals.

Here’s how to get verified & start saving:

  1. Student ID: Presenting a valid student ID in-store.
  2. .edu Email Address: Using your university email address (@lafilm.edu) for online verification.
  3. Third-Party Verification Services: Platforms like UNiDAYS and Student Beans are widely used by brands to verify student status and provide exclusive discount codes. It’s highly recommended to sign up for these services.

LAFS Student-Exclusive Resources

For film students, one of the biggest expenses is gear. Learning to handle and operate film equipment is a challenge in itself, but students looking to use high-quality equipment for their own projects is another. Fortunately, as a student at The L.A. Film School, you have free access to professional-grade equipment and software to support your projects and coursework.

LAFS Resources:

  • Equipment Rooms.
  • Library – B2, First Floor
  • Techkits.
  • Connect – Techkit and program information.

Technology & Software Deals

With newer tech always around the corner, price tags can get steep for everyday students. However, many companies offer student discounts on various programs and products for those looking for the opportunity to upgrade or replace older equipment they have.

Technology & Software Discounts:

  • Apple: Students can save on MacBooks and iPads, often with additional perks like discounted Apple Music or Apple TV+ for a limited time.
  • Dell: Students can receive up to 10% off Dell PCs and accessories by registering for Dell Rewards and verifying their student status.
  • HP: Offers deals for students when you sign up with an .edu email address, with some savings up to 40% at the HP Education Store.
  • Bose: 10% discount on the total value of items in your cart.
  • GoPro: 5% discount on select products.
  • Logitech: 25% discount on tech products.
  • Codecademy: 35% discount on Codecademy Pro.
  • Babbel: 65% discount on three months of Babbel.
  • Evernote: 40% off Evernote Professional.
  • Surfshark: 85% off for students plus three months free when signing up for a two-year plan.

Fashion & Apparel Deals

Who doesn’t love a new school-day fit? You’ll love it more with some of the discounts these companies offer to students. Take advantage of these great deals and show up to class in style!

Fashion & Apparel Discounts:

  • Adidas: Special discount (often 30%) and free shipping on online orders.
  • Nike: 10% off for U.S. high school and college students.
  • ASOS: 10% discount valid until graduation.
  • American Eagle: 20% discount on both store and online purchases through UNiDAYS.
  • H&M: Up to 15% off purchases with a valid ID.
  • Gymshark: 15% discount sitewide.
  • Levi’s: 10% off online orders.
  • Madewell: 15% discount online and in-store.
  • Converse: 15% discount.
  • Crocs: 25% off sitewide.
  • Kate Spade: 15% discount.
  • The North Face: 10% discount for eligible college students.
  • Tommy Hilfiger: 15% off in-store and online.
  • Under Armour: 20% discount through UNiDAYS.
  • Hollister Co.: Extra 10% off (sometimes on top of other sales) after verifying students status with UNiDAYS.

Student Travel Savings

Whether you’re heading back home to visit the family or taking a relaxing trip before the new term, you can find great discounts that won’t break the bank. Look to save on flights, hotels and other transportation services.

Travel Discounts:

  • Amtrak: 15% off train tickets for students aged 17-24 when purchased one day in advance.
  • United Airlines: MileagePlus members aged 18-23 can get 5% off United Economy® and Basic Economy fares on U.S. and select international Flights through the United app (valid through December 31, 2025).
  • Student Universe: This platform offers significant discounts (up to 30%) on flights from airlines like Delta, United, and Lufthansa for students aged 18-25.
  • Hotel.com: 10% off with certified student ID.
  • Expedia: Save 25% + 10% student discount (check for specific “Halfway There Sale” type promotions).
  • Greyhound: 10% off bus travel and 15% off shipping services.

Streaming, News & Entertainment Deals

Whether you’re binging the latest hit series, streaming your favorite playlist, or staying informed with the news, entertainment subscriptions can add up fast. Luckily, students get access to some of the most popular streaming services and media platforms at seriously discounted rates.

Entertainment & Subscriptions Discounts:

  • Amazon Prime Student: Six months free, then 50% off the regular Prime membership rate ($6.49/month), including Prime Delivery, Prime Video, Amazon Photos, Prime Music, and recently added Grubhub+ benefits.
  • Spotify Premium Student: Discounted monthly rate (often $4.99/month) which often includes Hulu (with ads) and sometimes SHOWTIME.
  • Apple Music: 50% off subscription ($6/month) for up to 48 months, often including Apple TV+ for a limited time.
  • Hulu: Hulu (with ads) for $1.99/month.
  • Paramount+: 25% discount.
  • Peacock: Premium for $2.99/month for a year.
  • Pandora: 60-day free trial of Pandora Premium Student, then $5.99/month (50% savings for up to four years).
  • YouTube Premium: free trial, then $7.99/month.
  • The New York Times: Discounted introductory subscription, often $1/week for digital access for a year.
  • The Wall Street Journal: Digital subscription for $4/month or print and digital for $10/month.
  • The Economist: 75% off an annual digital subscription.
  • Headspace: 85% off well-being resources ($9.99/year).
  • Event Tickets Center: 12% student discount on orders over $150.
  • Universal Studios Hollywood: Check their website for college discounts.

Everyday Extras

From food delivery to home essentials, everyday spending can add up quickly. These student deals offer savings on useful items and services you might not think to look for—but definitely use.

Other Notable Discounts:

  • Blue Apron: $180 off the first five weeks of your subscription.
  • Target: 50% off a Target Circle membership when you verify as a student.
  • Purple (Mattresses): 10% discount on mattresses.
  • Stanley: 20% off online.
  • Eyewear: EyeBuyDirect offers a percentage off lenses, and other optical retailers may have student deals.

Conclusion

College is expensive—but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With these discounts and resources, you can save money and still enjoy everything student life has to offer. Keep this list handy, and make the most of every dollar!