How to switch to a Prime Student membership ahead of Prime Day (and why you should)

13 hours ago 3
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Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET

Whether you're a college student or a Gen Z navigating the complex task of adulting, you likely know that expenses stack up quickly. From ordering and renting textbooks and booking flights back home to buying groceries and essential tech, something always seems to add to your bills. 

Also: The best Prime Day deals live now

Luckily, Amazon Prime's student membership can help you save. With Amazon Prime Day coming up on July 8-11, now is the perfect time to switch from your existing Prime account, sign up for one in general, or test the six-month free trial. To help you make the switch, here's more information about Prime Student, its cost, and (many) perks. 

What exactly is Prime Student? 

Prime Student is a discounted Amazon Prime service that gives higher education students and young adults the same benefits as a regular Prime membership for half the cost. 

For example, Prime Student users receive access to Prime Video, Grubhub+, and the usual Prime member perks, including exclusive deals, such as for Amazon Prime Day sales, and free two-day, one-day, and even same-day shipping. 

Who is eligible for a Prime Student membership? 

You're eligible if you meet one of two criteria. You must be a student currently enrolled at a college or university, or you must be between 18 and 24 years old. Amazon will require you to verify your information with proof, such as a .edu or school-linked email address or an ID, so ensure you have the credentials to support your selection.

How much does Prime Student cost?

Prime Student users start with a free six-month trial that you can cancel at any time. So, even if you aren't interested in a long-term membership, you could time your trial to overlap with a massive sale, such as Prime Day, and cancel before the membership fee kicks in.

After the trial period, Prime Student membership will cost $69 per year or $7.49 monthly, half the cost of a regular Prime membership. If you subscribe now ahead of Prime Day, you can be a member until December 2025 before paying anything for your discounted membership.

Also: How to make money on Amazon by sharing your favorite products

If you're a student with an existing Amazon Prime account, but without the Prime Student perks, here's how to switch your existing Prime subscription to one more tailored to a student's lifestyle and price point. 

How to switch to a Prime Student membership from an existing Prime account 

Your first step is visiting the Prime Student page, where you will be presented with options to start your free six-month trial. You can then select the option that works best for you, either verifying your age or student status. Then, click the big, yellow button that reads, "Try Prime Student." 

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Prime Student homepage
Screenshot by Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET

On the mobile app or web browser, log in to your existing Amazon account using the same email you registered with. You don't need to cancel this existing account to sign up. If you don't have an account, you can click on the "Create your Amazon account" button to go through the quick and simple process of creating an account.

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Amazon log-in
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Depending on the option you choose, after signing in, you'll be asked to submit proof of your credentials. For example, since I am not a college student but fall within the age limit, I chose the "Verify with Age" option. As a result, I was asked to verify my age using a photo of a valid ID, such as a passport or driver's license. 

Also: Amazon Prime Day 2025: Here's what to know before next week

If you choose the "Verify with Student Status" option, you'll be asked to fill out a sign-up form and either use your .edu email address or submit proof of enrollment, such as your student ID, your transcript, etc. 

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Prime Student membership verification
Screenshot by Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET

How to join Prime Student if you don't have an existing Amazon or Prime account

If you want to join Prime Student and don't have an account, you will need to sign up for an Amazon account (see step 2, above). Then, you can follow the same process. 

Do I get access to Prime Day sales with Prime Student? 

Yes. Since Amazon's Prime Days is an exclusive sale for all Prime members, Prime Students can benefit from the deals. And if you want to test the perks of Prime before fully committing, now might be a good time to take advantage of the six-month free trial. 

How long does Prime Student last? 

Your membership lasts until you either stop being a student or turn 25, depending on the subscription tier you select. The free trial you get as soon as you enroll as a Prime Student expires after six months. 

Do I have to cancel my current account to get Prime Student? 

No, you do not have to cancel or deactivate your account. Just use this link to transfer your account. Your current benefits, however, may change. For example, if you currently have a 20% discount on home appliances, that may be revoked in place of the other perks.  

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