Does Southwest Airlines Offer a Student Discount?
Trying to find a southwest airlines student discount for a cheaper trip? Southwest airlines is famous for its low prices, it doesn't offer a specific student discount. Nevertheless, students can still get deals. They can book through reliable third-party websites like studentuniverse or studentbeans. Here, qualifying travelers might get up to 30% off certain southwest flights.
If you're a student hoping to fly southwest affordably, this guide covers all the important details. It includes the requirements, necessary documents, how to book, and advice for saving on your next flight.
What is the Southwest Airlines Student Discount Program?
Even though Southwest doesn't manage a student-specific program, students can get reduced fares through external websites. Here's a summary:
Eligibility: Students aged 18 to 25 and attending a verified college or university.
Savings: You can save up to 30% on Southwest fares, the discount depending on the route and seat availability.
How to Book: These special fares can be found on StudentUniverse or StudentBeans, not on Southwest's own website.
Proof Needed: A valid student ID, proof of enrollment, or an acceptance letter could be asked for to confirm your status.
Read Also:- American Airlines Student Discount: A Completed Guide
How to Book Southwest Airlines Student Discount Flights?
If you’re ready to book, here’s a step-by-step process:
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Visit StudentUniverse or StudentBeans.
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Create an account using your student information.
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Upload proof of student status (ID or enrollment letter).
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Enter your travel dates and destination.
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Browse the discounted Southwest flight options.
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Complete the booking any available discount will automatically apply.
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Receive your confirmation email with ticket details.
For booking help, call Southwest Airlines at 1-800-435-9792. You can also get custom support from travel specialists by calling +1-855-570-0146.
Required Documents for Student Discounts
To sidestep any potential problems, be certain you have these documents at your disposal:
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Current passport
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Student identification
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Your acceptance or enrollment letter
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Any extra documentation that the booking platform requires
Tips to Save on Southwest Flights
Even without an official student program, southwest offers multiple ways to save:
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Sign up for Rapid Rewards – Accumulate points on each flight and trade them for complimentary tickets.
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Look at Southwest’s Deals Page – Limited-time offers may greatly reduce ticket costs.
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Utilize the Low Fare Calendar – Contrast prices across months to pinpoint the most economical times.
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Purchase Tickets Early – Reserve your tickets 30–45 days beforehand to get better prices.
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Fly at Off-Peak Times – Traveling mid-week or during slower periods often results in lower fares.
Why doesn’t southwest offer a student discount?
Southwest business strategy is centered around offering budget-friendly fares.
Here's why they likely don't have a dedicated student program:
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Base fares are already budget-friendly.
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Two free checked bags save students extra costs.
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No change fees make travel flexible for younger passengers.
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Transparent pricing removes the need for promo codes.
In other words, while there no official student discount, Southwest already offers features that benefit cost-conscious travelers.
Student Discount Comparison: Southwest vs Other Airlines

Conclusion
Though Southwest Airlines doesn't offer a specific student discount, various alternatives exist for saving money. Using StudentUniverse or StudentBeans could save you up to 30%, whereas Southwest's features like free baggage and no change charges help students travel at lower prices.
To boost your savings: reserve your flights in advance, use the Low Fare Calendar, and enroll in Rapid Rewards. For booking assistance or instant support, visit Top Airline Rules or call Southwest Airlines at +1-800-435-9792 or contact our travel specialists at +1-855-570-0146.
Frequently asked questions
Q1. Does Southwest Airlines have a student discount?
No, Southwest Airlines does not offer an official student discount program. However, students can still save money by booking through third-party sites like StudentUniverse or StudentBeans.
Q2. How can students save money on Southwest Airlines flights?
Students can save by booking via StudentUniverse, using Southwest’s Low Fare Calendar, joining the Rapid Rewards program, and booking flights early during sales.
Q3. What documents are required for a Southwest student discount?
Students must provide proof of enrollment, such as a valid student ID, college acceptance letter, or enrollment certificate when booking through StudentUniverse or StudentBeans.
Q4. Can I use Southwest Rapid Rewards with student discounts?
No, Rapid Rewards points cannot be combined with third-party student discounts, but students can still earn points on eligible bookings.
Q5. Why doesn’t Southwest Airlines offer a student discount program?
Southwest focuses on keeping fares low for all passengers by offering free checked bags, no change fees, and transparent pricing instead of a dedicated student discount program.
By Alison Bernard
Published Aug 28,2025