Starting May 7, 2026, Apple has broadened its educational discount program to encompass the Apple Watch series, making discounted pricing available for Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Watch Ultra 3 to qualifying students and educators. This marks the first instance of Apple Watch being included in the company's 'Education Store'.
This expansion coincides with a significant shift in verification protocols across several key markets, most notably the United States, Canada, and Chile. Previously operating on an "honor system" for online purchases, Apple now mandates verification through third-party services, primarily UNiDAYS, to confirm eligibility for educational pricing. This change extends to in-store purchases as well.
Globally, the rollout is varied. While the US, Canada, and Chile now require UNiDAYS verification, other regions are also seeing Apple Watch added to their respective Education Stores. These include:
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Asia: China, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Oceania: Australia.
In Australia and Hong Kong, an online UNiDAYS verification process has been implemented. Apple has also adopted UNiDAYS verification in Turkey. The extent of the discount is generally up to 10 percent off the regular price.
Shift Towards Stricter Eligibility
The reintroduction and expansion of the UNiDAYS verification system underscore a move towards more stringent control over who can access educational discounts. This system, already in place in many countries, is now being applied more broadly to prevent misuse of the educational pricing program. Previously, the US market, for example, did not require such formal verification for Education Store purchases.
The Apple Education Store traditionally offers special pricing on Macs, iPads, and accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil. The inclusion of the Apple Watch signifies an effort to extend these cost savings to a wider range of Apple's popular hardware. Consumers interested in these discounts can explore eligibility and available models through Apple's dedicated 'Education Store' online. For purchases, customers can expect to receive delivery dates post-order placement. Additionally, new Apple Watch purchases may include promotional offers, such as free trials for Apple Fitness+.
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