Graduating from college is the start of an exciting new chapter of life, but it can also mean the end of a lot of perks you got used to as a student, especially those sweet discounts. Or…does it? The good news is, some companies still honor student discounts long after you’ve walked the stage. If you keep your old student ID handy, you can unlock unexpected savings on everything from tech to entertainment to everyday goods. Let’s dive into making the most of your student (or rather, graduate) benefits.
Keep Your Old Student ID Handy
One of the easiest ways to continue snagging discounts is simply by holding onto your student ID. Some online retailers and service providers accept a current or even expired student ID as proof for their promotions. I still keep mine in the back of my wallet, and on more than one occasion, it’s saved me money on subscriptions and software I use daily.
Tech and Software Savings
Tech brands are notorious for offering student deals, and many extend them a bit past graduation if you can verify your status online. Companies like Adobe and Apple have programs where showing a student ID can reduce prices on laptops, software, or accessories. Even if you graduated 5+ years agop, sometimes their online verification system recognizes your old student credentials. It’s worth a quick check before making a purchase, especially on big-ticket items. The worst that can happen is you’re rejected a student discount, but at least you tried.
Everyday Retail and Online Shopping
Believe it or not, several online stores still reward recent grads with discounts. Platforms like clothing and lifestyle sites. (think something like Under Armour) occasionally run promotions for students that can be accessed after graduation if you log in through your old student email or verify your ID online. I’ve saved on things like headphones, backpacks, and even casual apparel just by checking the student deals page before checkout.
Entertainment and Streaming Perks
Subscriptions for streaming services, music platforms, and e-learning sites are another area where student discounts linger longer than you’d expect. Netflix, Spotify, and some online learning platforms offer reduced rates if you show proof of student status, and some allow grace periods for new graduates. I once snagged a discounted Spotify subscription for a few months after graduation, which was a nice way to keep my music streaming bill lower while settling into post-college life.
Dining, Travel, and Experiences
A few unexpected savings come from dining, travel, and experiential offers. Some restaurants, coffee chains, and even travel booking sites still honor student IDs for a small discount, particularly in partnership with online student discount programs. Whether it’s a local coffee shop or a travel site offering a small rebate, having your old ID and checking before you pay can add up significantly over time.
Pro Tips to Keep the Savings Coming
If you want to keep cashing in on these “after graduation” student discounts, a few simple habits help. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Keep your old student ID and email accessible.
- Sign up for newsletters from student discount sites, as they often highlight ongoing promotions for recent grads.
- Verify eligibility online before buying; some systems are flexible if your ID is expired.
- Stack discounts when possible, combining a student offer with site-wide sales or rewards points.
I’ve found that just a few minutes of checking for student deals before major purchases can save me far more than I expected. Even years after graduation, a little effort can go a long way toward everyday savings.
Final Thoughts
Graduation doesn’t have to mean the end of all student perks. From tech and clothing to subscriptions and experiences, keeping your old student ID and being a bit proactive online can unlock surprising discounts. Personally, I’ve been able to save on things I buy regularly, like software for work or streaming services, just by remembering to check student deals first. It’s a small trick that can keep your wallet happier long after the tassel turns and you move into the real world.
Leave a Reply