Looking to score a free pair of Apple AirPods? You're in luck! According to MacRumors, Apple's educational promotions and special offers make it possible to get these premium wireless earbuds without spending a dime. While the most straightforward path is through Apple's Back to School promotion, there are several other creative ways to get your hands on free AirPods, similar to how you can earn free gift cards or get free products through apps.
Whether you're a student, educator, or savvy shopper, understanding these opportunities can save you hundreds of dollars on Apple's popular audio accessories. Ready to discover how to get your free AirPods? Let's dive in!
Jump to
Summary Table
| Item Name | Price Range | Best For | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Back to School Promotion (Free AirPods 4) | Free ($0) with eligible purchase | Students and Educators | Visit Site |
| Apple Back to School Promotion (Discounted AirPods Pro 3) | $70 with eligible purchase | Students seeking premium features | Visit Site |
| Alternative Free Accessories | Free ($0) with eligible purchase | Students preferring other accessories | See details |
| Apple Education Store Year-Round Discount | 10% off regular price | Year-round education buyers | Visit Site |
4 Legit Ways to Get Free AirPods (2025)
Below you'll find detailed information about each option, including what makes them unique and their key benefits.
1. Apple Back to School Promotion
Apple's education store offers significant savings for students, faculty, and staff members. Eligible buyers can receive educational pricing on Macs and iPads, plus free AirPods with qualifying purchases during the promotion period (through September 30, 2025).
Education benefits:
- Year-round 10% discount on Mac and iPad
- Free AirPods 4 with eligible purchases
- Additional AppleCare+ student discount
2. Alternative Free Accessories
Instead of AirPods, eligible education customers can opt for other Apple accessories during the Back to School promotion. Choose from the Apple Pencil Pro, Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, or Magic Trackpad (up to the value of AirPods 4).
Available alternatives:
- Apple Pencil Pro for iPad users
- Magic Keyboard for Mac purchases
- Magic Mouse or Trackpad options
3. Apple Back to School Promotion (Free AirPods 4)
This specific promotion offers free AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation when purchasing an eligible Mac or iPad. Students can also upgrade to AirPods Pro 3 for just $70 (after $179 discount) during the promotion period.
Promotion details:
- Free AirPods 4 ($179 value)
- Optional upgrade to AirPods Pro 3 ($70)
- Valid through September 30, 2025
4. Apple Back to School Promotion (Discounted AirPods Pro 3)
Apple's education promotion offers significant savings for eligible students, faculty, staff, and parents purchasing new Mac or iPad devices. The promotion runs through September 30, 2025, combining Apple's standard educational pricing with special AirPods deals.
Qualifying buyers can upgrade to AirPods Pro 3 for just $70 (after a $179 discount) with an eligible device purchase. This premium audio upgrade includes Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode for enhanced listening experiences. For more ways to maximize student savings, check out our guide to earning free gift cards.
Key benefits:
- $179 discount on AirPods Pro 3 (pay only $70)
- Valid with eligible Mac or iPad purchase
- Available to education customers only
- Additional year-round education pricing on devices
Final Words
While free AirPods sound tempting, it's important to verify legitimate opportunities through trusted retailers, carrier promotions, education discounts, and reward programs to avoid scams. With options ranging from student discounts at $159 to carrier trade-in deals valued up to $229, you can find authentic ways to get AirPods at heavily reduced prices or even free through reputable channels.
Related Articles
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Free AirPods
Who is eligible to get free AirPods through Apple's Back to School promotion?
College and university students, K-12 employees, higher education faculty, staff, and parents purchasing for a student are eligible. The offer is available when buying an eligible new Mac or iPad directly from Apple, either online or in-store, by September 30, 2025.
Can I upgrade to AirPods Pro instead of getting regular AirPods?
Yes, eligible US customers can upgrade to AirPods Pro 3 for $70 (after a $179 discount) with the purchase of an eligible Mac or iPad. This upgrade option is only available during the promotion period ending September 30, 2025.
What if I don't want AirPods - are there alternative options?
Yes, you can choose other accessories such as the Apple Pencil Pro, Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, or Magic Trackpad for free instead of AirPods. The available accessories and their values depend on the device purchased during the promotion period.
Can I get free AirPods year-round with student discount?
No, free AirPods are only available during the Back to School promotion period. While college students can receive a 10% discount on select Mac and iPad models year-round through Apple's Education Store, free AirPods are not included in this standard educational discount.
