Windows Licenses for Students and Universities
What students should know about Windows licenses — from university portals to their own affordable license.
On this page
Short answer: Many universities and colleges already provide students with inexpensive or free Microsoft licenses through their own portals – that's where you should look first. For private devices outside the university network or after graduation, a self-purchased, used Windows license is usually the cheapest solution.
What universities often already offer
Many universities and colleges already provide students with inexpensive or free Microsoft licenses through their own portals – it’s always worth checking your university portal first before you buy anything yourself.
When your own license makes sense
After graduation, for universities without their own licensing program, or for private devices outside the university network, an inexpensive, self-purchased Windows license often remains the most practical solution.
"I had saved specifically for a Windows license – but I could have gotten it almost for free through the university portal." A student describes how she only found out about the university's own licensing program after making her purchase – and since then advises all freshmen to check there first.
Why used licenses make sense especially here
With a limited budget, opting for a tested, used license is particularly worthwhile – the same functionality, significantly lower costs. At Firstsoft, Windows 10 Pro costs €54.99 and Windows 11 Pro costs €85.99.
A tip that is especially important for students: The Pro edition includes Remote Desktop and BitLocker. If you want to access the computer in the lab or library, or need an encrypted drive for research data, Home won't get you far.
And for Office?
For study and private use, Office Home & Student is the appropriate license – we do not carry it because it is not permitted for commercial use and therefore does not fit into our product range. As soon as you start working freelance, you will need at least Office 2024 anyway. The article Using Office Home & Student commercially explains why this is the case.
Conclusion
First check university offers, then fill the gap with an inexpensive, verified license. Our Windows licenses are available with invoice and immediate delivery.
