Every summer, a quiet opportunity unfolds for students preparing for higher education. It’s not widely advertised, but keenly anticipated: Apple’s annual education promotion, now known as the “Higher Education Offer.” This isn’t a fleeting sale, but a carefully timed incentive designed to equip the next generation with the tools they need to succeed.
The timing of this offer is strategic, mirroring the academic calendar across the globe. While often referred to as “Back to School,” the promotion extends well beyond August, continuing until roughly a month after university semesters begin in each region. This ensures students have ample time to take advantage of the benefits as they settle into their studies.
In early 2025, the promotion launched in Australia around January 8th, offering students the chance to receive AirPods or an Apple Pencil alongside a new Mac or iPad purchase. This pattern is likely to repeat, providing a significant value-add for those investing in Apple’s ecosystem.
The offer then expands northward, reaching North America around mid-June (starting June 17th in 2025), followed by the U.K. and Europe in mid-July (July 10th in 2025). The promotion typically runs through September in the U.S. (until September 30th, 2025) and into mid-October in the U.K. (October 21st, 2025), giving students a generous window to benefit.
Looking ahead, the dates for 2026 are shaping up similarly. Expect the offer to run from early January to early March in Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and South Korea. North America and India will see the promotion from mid-June to the end of September, while the U.K. and Europe will follow from mid-July to mid-October.
In 2025, Apple shifted its approach, returning to a popular format: direct giveaways of AirPods, Apple Pencils, and other accessories with qualifying purchases. This marks a change from recent years where gift cards were offered, and is a welcome return for many students.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Throughout the year, Apple’s Education Store provides consistent discounts on products for eligible students and educators. The summer promotion is an *addition* to these ongoing savings, maximizing the value for those in the academic community.
To unlock the offer, a qualifying purchase is required – typically a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, iPad Pro, or iPad Air. Students also benefit from year-round discounts on these very same products within the Apple Education Store, with the notable exception of the iPhone.
Eligibility is centered around enrollment in higher education, or impending enrollment. Employees of educational institutions, and even parents purchasing for their students, can also qualify. Specific verification processes vary by region, with UNiDAYS often used in the U.K. to confirm student status.
The potential savings are substantial. In 2025, U.S. students could receive free AirPods, Apple Pencils, or accessories, or opt for a discount on AirPods Pro 2 or Magic Keyboard cases. The value can reach up to $199 with a free Magic Keyboard.
Similar offers were available in the U.K. and Europe, with the option to receive free accessories or discounts on premium products. Australia and New Zealand offered savings of up to A$299 on AirPods and Apple Pencils with qualifying Mac or iPad purchases.
Beyond the specific promotional periods, students can consistently save up to $200 on Macs and $100 on iPads through Apple’s standard education pricing. This ongoing benefit, combined with the summer promotion, makes Apple products an increasingly accessible choice for students.
For those seeking the best possible deal, exploring current promotions on Mac minis, iMacs, and iPads is always worthwhile. And for guidance on choosing the right device, resources are available to help students select the best Mac or iPad for their specific needs.
