Student Broadband Deals
Finding the right student broadband deal can be overwhelming, given the many factors to consider. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various aspects of student broadband and provide tips on finding the perfect deal for you.
What is Student Broadband?
Student broadband is a package designed specifically for students who require affordable, fast, and reliable broadband during the academic term time.
Student broadband deals are tailored for multiple users and come with shorter contracts, typically lasting nine months. They are particularly suitable for those who will not stay in their accommodation during holidays. Providers also offer 6 months, or even 30-day rolling contracts.
You can also consider alternative options if you’re looking for a more flexible or more comprehensive broadband plan.
Advantages of Student Broadband
Student broadband caters to the unique needs of students by offering shorter contract durations in line with the academic year.
Broadband has become an indispensable tool in colleges and universities. This means students require fast and reliable internet access for their academic use, to research important information, study online course content, and complete assignments.
Student broadband offers an affordable way for students to stay connected with family and friends, great for students on tight budget.
Price discounts for students are often available, making internet access even more affordable during their studies.
Providers also offer flexible customisation options for student broadband packages. Students can add TV packages and call plans, depending on their requirements.
Students who don’t need a landline can choose broadband only plan to save money.
Key Factors to consider
When choosing a student broadband package, it is essential to compare various deals to find the right provider.
- Price – Ensure the package is affordable and fits within your budget.
- Contract length – Opt for shorter contracts, such as 6 month, 9 month or monthly rolling contracts, to avoid paying for unused months.
- Truly unlimited – Check for any data limits or restrictions, especially if you have heavy internet usage.
- Flexibility – Look for options to customise the plan according to your needs, such as adding TV packages or call plans.
Other important considerations include:
- Speed – Faster internet speeds may be necessary for students living in large house shares or those with heavy internet usage.
- Bundled entertainment options – Some providers offer TV packages, which can save money if the overall cost is cheaper than separate services.
- Wireless alternatives – Consider mobile broadband if a landline is not required or if you need more flexibility.
Student Broadband Providers
Virgin Media, BT, and Sky offer student broadband packages during the summer months, just before the start of a new academic year.
Some providers, like Virgin Media and NOW Broadband, also offer student broadband with TV options, allowing students to add entertainment to their broadband.
Some student broadband providers offer bundles and special offers to help students save money as the overall cost of the bundle is cheaper than purchasing separate services.
It is important to note that while most broadband deals include a phone line, some providers offer no landline option which can help lower the overall cost of the package.
Alternatives
Students can also consider mobile broadband as an alternative to fixed line broadband. Mobile broadband does not require a landline and is easy to setup. It is faster than standard broadband.
Here are some advantages:
- Data limits: Mobile broadband plans often have data caps and also expensive. In contrast, fixed broadband frequently offers unlimited data options and is cost effective option for heavy internet users.
- Speed: Mobile broadband speeds, especially on 4G networks, may not be as fast as fibre broadband connections. This can impact activities like video streaming, online gaming, and large file downloads.
- Network congestion: Mobile broadband connections become slow to network congestion during peak times, which can result in slower speeds and a less reliable connection. Fixed broadband connections, especially, fibre connections are generally more stable and less affected by congestion.
- Coverage: Mobile broadband relies on network coverage, which can vary depending on the area. Students living in areas with poor mobile network coverage may experience weaker signals and slower speeds, making fixed broadband a better choice.
- In shared student houses or apartments, mobile broadband may not be the best option, as multiple users accessing the internet simultaneously can quickly consume the data allowance.
If there are no tailored student broadband deals available, students can explore other options such as no-contract broadband and short-term contract plans.
These alternatives allow students to find a suitable broadband service that meets their needs without committing to a long-term contract.