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Being a college student means you have unique needs. Sometimes you’re tight on budget but need to purchase something costly. When you travel abroad for several months, you will need an affordable international data plan. Or sometimes your school does not provide students with free Wi-Fi, so you have to depend on your cellular connection when you need to access the internet. That’s when the best phone plans for college students prove essential.
Lifeline is a federal program that lowers the monthly phone or internet service cost. Eligible consumers can receive up to $9.25 discount on phone, internet, or bundled services. Those who live on Tribal lands may get an enhanced discount of up to $34.25 per month.
This program is dedicated to making phone and internet service more affordable for low-income individuals and households.
What is the best phone for college students?
- BYOD or get a free phone: Beside the unlimited data that allows talk, text, international calling, etc., you may get a smartphone for free. In case you already have the phone you love, you can choose the Bring Your Own Device program and get the plan only.
(Note: Customers may need to unlock their device with the provider to ensure compatibility).
3. How Can You Get Phone Plans for College Students?
Eligibility
Can students get free phone plans from Lifeline? The answer is Yes, college students can apply for the Lifeline program if they meet the eligibility requirements:
- Income: The applicant’s household must have an income at or under 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, which is based on household size and state. Applicants may also need to provide proof of income, such as recent pay stubs or a tax return.
- Program participation: You can qualify for Lifeline if you are already a participant of these programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
- Certain Tribal Programs
Do note that applicants must recertify annually to keep their benefits active.
How-to guide
If Lifeline services are available in your area, you’ll proceed to the next step.
For those bringing their own device, a separate plan option is available.
Step 4: Upload required documents
This step determines your eligibility. Submit clear, accurate copies of the required documentation.
Find more information about acceptable documents HERE.
Step 5: Await approval
4. Other Back-to-school Devices You May Need
- Best Samsung Galaxy phones
- Free LG phones
- Free Motorola phones
- Phone and smartwatch combo: If you want to leverage both your study and health quality, you can give a smartwatch and phone combo a look. Also at a steep discount, these bundles will help students monitor their fitness and manage schedule effectively.