Are you a student wondering how to get a free iPhone in 2025? With the rising cost of tuition, supplies, and everyday tech, many students across the U.S. are searching for ways to stay connected without draining their wallets. Several government programs, educational initiatives, and nonprofit organizations now offer free iPhones for students whoever has eligible, helping bridge the digital divide and ensuring everyone has access to essential technology.
All the information you need to obtain a free iPhone for students without spending any money is available in the provided article. from eligibility requirements to step-by-step application tips—so you can get your free student iPhone fast. Whether you’re in high school, college, or part of a low-income household, this article is packed with verified information to help you make the most of these student phone offers.
It’s simple to get a free iPhone for students in 2025; there are several ways to do it, including giveaways, government assistance programs, and numerous school initiatives.
Does Apple Offer a Free iPhone for Students?
No. Students are not eligible for a free iPhone from Apple. However, it offers a student discount on products like MacBooks (with AirPods) and iPads (with Apple Pencil).
Keep in mind that certain Apple products, such as the iPhone, Apple Watch, and Apple TV, are not eligible for these education discounts. There are still other ways to get an iPhone for free, though. Below, please have a look at some of them.
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Way to Get a Free iPhone for Students
The majority of students constantly have to deal with a lot of costs, such as expensive books and tuition. As a result, the price of an iPhone could further strain your already limited funds.
However, being aware of multiple ways to get a free iPhone for students will help you save money that you can spend on other beneficial things.
Here is a list of a few of these methods.
Notice: Our website’s content about how students can receive free iPhones from ACP, the Lifeline Assistance program, SNAP, and other such programs is meant only as general information. Please be advised that although these programs provide qualified low-income individuals with free or reduced telecommunications services, they might not be entirely free for everyone.
The selected plan, extra features, and specific service provider terms can all affect costs. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on prices and services, we strongly recommend that our readers contact the individual service providers directly.
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Discounts at Apple Education Store
Apple offers teachers, parents, and kids a discount program. You may purchase a new iPhone for up to $200 less with the discount.
To apply for an Apple discount, you must first authenticate yourself as a student, parent, or teacher by visiting the Apple Education Store website. Next, decide which iPhone model you want.
Promotions for Carriers
Customers can sign up for a new plan and receive a free iPhone thanks to promotional offers offered by many major carriers. For example, students who sign up for a new unlimited plan and trade in a qualifying old device can receive a free iPhone from Verizon.
Programs for Scholarships
Technology awards are available through a variety of scholarship schemes. You can buy a new smartphone with the grants if you are eligible for these programs as a student. For instance, students can get a $20,000 award through the well-known Dell Scholarship Program.
Programs on Campus
Students who participate in technology programs at certain institutions can get a free iPhone in exchange for working online. To enhance teaching through technology, Duke University, for instance, has given away free Apple iPhones and iPods to students.
To find out if such a program is offered at your university, students can get in touch with the student services center or IT department. You have to apply for the same if it does.
Giveaways and Contests Online
Many websites and social media pages have offered freebies and competitions where students might win a free iPhone. You can look for these kinds of ads on well-known tech blogs or social media pages if you’re interested.
Free iPhone for Students Through ACP/Lifeline Program
Nowadays, everyone is thought to need a smartphone, especially students who can accomplish a variety of tasks using technology.
In light of this, the government launched the Lifeline Program and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which allow numerous participating service providers to give away a government iPhone along with other reduced internet services.
Please be aware that only providers who offer Lifeline & ACP combination benefits are eligible for a free iPhone. These companies provide a variety of iPhone models with quality guarantees for students.
If you are an adult student, you can apply directly for the ACP program. Your parents or legal guardian may use it on your behalf if you are a minor student.
To apply for the ACP program, you must, however, meet a few prerequisites.
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Requirements for Students to be Eligible for Free iPhones Through ACP/Lifeline
To be eligible for the ACP program and receive a free iPhone for students, you must fulfill several requirements.
The following requirements must be met in order to apply for the ACP program.
- You ought to be eighteen.
- To be eligible for a free iPhone under the ACP program, you must be a citizen of the state in which you apply.
- You can determine if you meet the following eligibility requirements if you meet the requirements above.
Eligibility for income
Your yearly income must be at or below 135% or 200% of the federal poverty threshold in order to be eligible for the ACP or lifeline program on an income basis.
The table below reflects 135% of the 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines.
| Household Size | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Territories | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,128 | $26,393 | $24,287 |
| 2 | $28,553 | $35,681 | $32,832 |
| 3 | $35,978 | $44,969 | $41,378 |
| 4 | $43,403 | $54,257 | $49,923 |
| 5 | $50,828 | $63,545 | $58,469 |
| 6 | $58,253 | $72,833 | $67,041 |
| 7 | $65,678 | $82,121 | $75,560 |
| 8 | $73,103 | $91,409 | $84,105 |
| For each additional person, add: | $7,425 | $9,288 | $8,546 |
You may have to show proof of income, like a tax return or three consecutive months of pays stubs, when you apply for Lifeline.
Eligibility for program
You can verify your eligibility for the following government assistance program if you are not eligible for the ACP based on your income.
- Program for Lifeline Assistance
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or food stamps
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) under Medicaid
- Assistance for Federal Public Housing
- TANF stands for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
- FDPIR stands for Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
- Assistance Bureau for Indian Affairs
- Head Start Tribal
Documentation Required for Free iPhone for Students Through ACP Lifeline Program
To demonstrate your eligibility for a free iPhone, you must include legitimate documentation with your application. Your eligibility will determine which documents you require.
| Income Proof | Income statement Paycheck stub Child support award, Divorce decree, Previous year’s state, federal, or Tribal tax return |
| Identity Proof | US Military IDState IDSocial Security Number (SSN)PassportDriver’s LicenseIndividual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)Tribal Identification Number |
| Government Assistance Program Participation Proof | Consent letterBenefits award letterLetter of benefit verificationBenefits declarationEducational records |
Best Free iPhone for Students Providers
You can think of these top suppliers for free iPhones as students, even if many ACP and Lifeline providers give excellent services to low-income individuals.
AirTalk Wireless
Through the ACP and Lifeline programs, AirTalk Wireless is regarded as one of the top carriers offering free iPhones or Android phones.
The company provides free unlimited calls, unlimited texts, 15 GB of high-speed data, and nationwide coverage in addition to a free iPhone. Other perks supplied by the corporation include phone waiting, three-way calling, and free caller ID.
To apply for a free iPhone from this carrier, go to their application page at “airtalkwireless.com/apply.” Click the “apply now” icon after entering your ZIP code on the website.
Cintex Wireless
In order to provide its services and a free iPhone for students, Cintex Wireless also takes part in the ACP and Lifeline. Free phones also come with a number of perks, such as 8 GB of high-speed data, unlimited texts, and free unlimited calls.
On their official website, cintexwireless.com/apply, you can sign up for Cintex Wireless’ free iPhone.
NewPhone Wireless
Because of its involvement in the ACP and Lifeline programs, NewPhone Wireless provides free iPhones. Free iPhones with unlimited talk, text, data, voicemail, call waiting, and caller ID capabilities are offered by the carrier.
You can apply for a free iPhone from this carrier online at “newphone.com/apply,” which is their official website.
List of iPhones Available to Students for Free
The providers do not disclose the iPhones you obtain under the ACP and Lifeline programs. The iPhone you receive is determined by a number of variables, including your current state and the model’s availability when you apply. However, the following iPhone models are probably what you will get if you are eligible for a free iPhone for students.
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone X
- Apple iPhone 6s
- iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 7
- Apple iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone 11
- Apple iPhone 12
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Free iPhone for Students
1. Can students really get a free iPhone in 2025?
Yes, some government programs, nonprofits, and wireless carriers offer free iPhones to eligible students, especially those from low-income families or enrolled in specific educational programs.
2. What programs offer free iPhones for students?
Programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), Lifeline, and school partnerships with tech companies may provide free or discounted iPhones for qualified students.
3. Who is eligible for a free iPhone as a student?
Eligibility is usually based on household income, enrollment in government aid programs (like SNAP, Medicaid), or being a full-time student in a participating school or college.
4. How can I apply for a free iPhone as a student?
You can apply through a provider offering the ACP or Lifeline benefit. Fill out an application form online, provide proof of eligibility (such as a student ID or income proof), and wait for approval.
5. Do free student iPhones come with data or service plans?
Most free iPhone offers include a limited talk, text, and data plan under programs like ACP. Some may also offer discounted upgrades or additional services.
6. Can international or part-time students qualify for a free iPhone?
Typically, only U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled full-time in qualifying schools are eligible. Rules may vary by provider.
7. What iPhone models are offered to students for free?
Models vary by program and availability. Commonly offered models include older yet functional versions like the iPhone 7, iPhone SE (2020), or iPhone 8.
8. Where can I find the best free iPhone offers for students?
Check with carriers like Assurance Wireless, Q Link Wireless, or local education tech programs. Also, explore nonprofit organizations that provide tech to students.
9. Do I need to return the iPhone after graduation?
No. In most cases, once the iPhone is issued, it becomes your property unless otherwise specified in the program terms.
10. Are there scams related to free student iPhones?
Yes, beware of online scams. Always apply through official websites and trusted providers. Avoid offers that ask for upfront fees or personal bank details.
