Hulu Ends Student Discounts and Raises Monthly Fees
The streaming service has introduced new bundle pricing for students while increasing rates for existing legacy subscribers.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Scholarships
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Hulu has discontinued its standalone student discounts and raised the monthly price for legacy ad-supported student subscribers. Students now have access to a new $6.49 monthly bundle that includes both ad-supported Hulu and Disney+.
Why it matters
The platform aims to standardize its revenue streams and phase out its oldest promotional tiers while integrating younger viewers into its wider entertainment ecosystem.
Legacy student subscription prices have increased to $3.99 per month from $1.99. Meanwhile, the new student bundle for Hulu and Disney+ costs $6.49 per month, a discount from the $12.99 standard monthly rate.
The players
Hulu
Hulu is a major streaming platform that offers a library of television shows, movies, and original content to subscribers.
Disney+
Disney+ is a global subscription-based streaming service that focuses on entertainment content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic.
The details
Subscribers must complete an annual verification process to prove their active enrollment in a recognized college or graduate program to qualify for these rates. If a user fails to verify their status, the subscription automatically converts to standard pricing.
Timeline
October 20, 2026: Official update regarding new student pricing structures.
Culture Shift
This move follows the broader streaming industry trend of pivoting toward integrated service bundles to consolidate user bases. It marks a shift away from standalone promotional pricing toward a centralized entertainment ecosystem approach.
Students should expect their monthly subscription costs to increase from $1.99 to $3.99 if they are on a legacy plan. To maintain discounted access, users must be prepared to verify their active college or graduate enrollment on an annual basis.
The takeaway
Students should review their current subscription billing to determine if they are still on a legacy plan or if they should switch to the new bundle. Keep your student email address and enrollment documentation ready to ensure the annual verification process goes smoothly.
Further reading
For more information on financial aid and student programs, visit the Scholarships section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cord Cutters News.
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