There’s a load of tech deals online this weekend. Here’s how to tell if you’re getting the biggest bang for your buck.
Apple closed its student discount loophole - but now it's back
(Updated 01/24/2022 – After reporting on Apple closing its student discount loophole last week, the company has reversed course. You are still able to take advantage of its student discount program without proof that you’re a student.)
Tech giant Apple has provided a discount to students and teachers on some devices for a long time. For 10% off the regular price, you only stated that you currently fall into the qualifying criteria. Tap or click here for the best Apple gadgets and accessories to gift or add to your wish list.
Without the need to prove your enrollment or employment institution, it left the education discount open for exploitation. While there is no telling how much money Apple missed out on, it’s fair to assume it was sizeable.
It’s no surprise that the company has quietly done something about it. Apple is now cracking down on full-price dodgers by doing away with the honor system.
Here’s the backstory
Customers need to visit the Apple Store Education website to buy anything through the program. Verification of current and newly accepted university students and teachers wasn’t previously required, and a successful purchase could net you 10% off your bill.
But going through the recommended process, a Reddit user noticed that Apple had made some changes. Seemingly over the last few days, potential buyers for educational purposes now need to verify their enrollment.
Here’s who can qualify for the discount:
- University students
- Students accepted into university
- Parents buying for university students
- Teachers and education staff at all levels
Customers are limited in the number of devices they can buy, too. The discount only applies to one desktop, one Mac mini, one laptop, two iPads and two accessories per year.
What you can do about it
If you are sure that you qualify for the discounts, the Apple Store Education website is where you need to go. But you’ll have to verify your eligibility through UNiDAYS, which Apple implemented as a security check.
16 state's tax-free holidays will save you money on tech purchases
The new school year is quickly approaching, and for many, this is a very exciting time of year. It’s time to stock up on school supplies and all of your tech gear. All these purchases can add up rather quickly unless you can get everything you need during your state’s tax-free weekend. Tap or click here for 15 summer tech gadgets you didn’t know you needed.
8 Memorial Day tech deals you can't afford to miss
It’s Memorial Day weekend and we’d like to begin by thanking everyone who has served in the U.S. military. So, thank you!
Now, with Memorial Day picnics and parades, we’ve also come to expect another major seasonal milestone: Memorial Day sales. You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home to score these awesome tech deals.
Trick to save up to 70% on Amazon
Do you love Amazon? Most of us do. We’re crazy for all those discounts on our favorite products and two-day or same-day (Prime membership required) shipping.
It turns out 63% of Americans have purchased something from the retail juggernaut. That’s a lot of data shared with the retail giant. Any time you complete a transaction online, remember to protect your personal data. Tap or click to discover the four essential steps to safer online shopping and banking.