Best cell phone plans for students in 2024

Written by

Rob Webber

+2 others

Edited by

Amanda Webber

Reviewed by

Brian Webber

Updated October 26, 2024

MoneySavingPro independently researches the products & services to bring you our recommendations. We may earn money when you click our links - disclosure policy.

Fed up with the limited options, baffling bills, and exorbitant costs from the major cell phone giants?

As the big three bask in their record profits and simultaneously unveil plans for yet more price increases, it's clear they've overlooked students in need of affordable, high-data plans.

Leveraging my decade-plus experience in the wireless sector, the price gap is wider than ever. Yet, getting a cheaper plan while still having enough data is easier than ever.

I've meticulously evaluated 30 alternative carriers and analyzed over 100 prepaid phone plans.

There are plenty of opportunities offering the same dependable networks at a fraction of the cost. This is a game-changer if you are a student who heavily relies on data for both their college work and your social life.

The best cell phone plan for students will depend on your preferred network and cell phone usage, and I've compared the best value plans across all three major networks, specifically targeting those with high data usage but tight budgets.

Moreover, I've highlighted what I believe to be the standout plan for overall value, helping you to choose the plan that suits your needs and budget.

Best plans for students on T-Mobile

These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers with T-Mobile coverage to consider.

Cheap T-Mobile plan

Tello 2GB plan

• T-Mobile coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

2GB

data

$10/mo

See at Tello

5

Read our Tello review

$780 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Plan details

Best family plan on T-Mobile

Mint Mobile 15GB plan

• T-Mobile coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

15GB

data

$15/mo*

$20/mo

See at Mint Mobile

*$45 for 3 Months

4.2

Read our Mint Mobile review

$675 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Plan details

Best unlimited plan on T-Mobile

Tello unlimited data plan

• T-Mobile coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

Unlimited

data

$25/mo

See at Tello

5

Read our Tello review

$600 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How T-Mobile compares

Best plans for students on Verizon

These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers with Verizon coverage to consider.

Cheap Verizon plan

Twigby Mobile 2GB plan

• Verizon coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

2GB

data

$5/mo*

$15/mo

See at Twigby Mobile

*$5/mo for 1st 3 Mths

4.4

Read our Twigby Mobile review

$750 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Plan details

Best family plan on Verizon

Red Pocket 10GB plan

• Verizon coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

10GB

data

$20/mo

See at Red Pocket

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$660 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Plan details

Best unlimited plan on Verizon

Visible unlimited data plan

• Verizon coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

Unlimited

data

$25/mo

See at Visible

3.4

Read our Visible review

$600 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How Verizon compares

Best plans for students on AT&T

These are the top 3 plans from low-cost carriers with AT&T coverage to consider.

Cheap AT&T plan

Red Pocket 1GB plan

• AT&T coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

1GB

data

$10/mo

See at Red Pocket

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$780 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Best family plan on AT&T

Red Pocket 10GB plan

• AT&T coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

10GB

data

$20/mo

See at Red Pocket

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$660 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Best unlimited plan on AT&T

Red Pocket unlimited data plan

• AT&T coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

Unlimited

data

$30/mo

See at Red Pocket

4.1

Read our Red Pocket review

$540 in annual savings

Pros & cons

How AT&T compares

Best overall value plan for Students

Tello unlimited data plan

• T-Mobile coverage
• Unlimited talk and text
• Instant eSIM activation

Unlimited

data

$25/mo

See at Tello

5

Read our Tello review

$600 in annual savings

Pros & cons

Big wireless: Big prices, big profits, little value

The average phone bill is $155 per month, and while 38 million Americans live in poverty, the government cut funding to the Affordable Connectivity Program, which was assisting 22 million low-income families with subsidized internet and cell phone service.

At the same time, the big three spent January celebrating record profits and multi-billion dollar shareholder dividend payouts while simultaneously announcing yet more price hikes.

So, big wireless continues to raise prices, and the government drops assistance to those in need. However, you do have options, so the power is in your hands.

Take back control of your phone bill

A big wireless unlimited plan will cost you $1,600 extra over the next 3 years compared to getting the same service from an MVNO.

A big wireless unlimited data plan will cost you $2,700 over the next 3 years for just 1 line. In comparison, unlimited plans from a low-cost carrier over the same period would cost only $900.

So, buying directly from Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T is now 3 times more expensive for the same coverage. This does not include fees and taxes or future price hikes.

Why is it so much more expensive to buy the same service directly?

With big wireless, you are paying for multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople - all these expenses get passed onto you to maximize profits and dividend payouts.

With this next generation of MVNOs, you switch online and just pay for phone service.

Cut your phone bill, not your coverage

These low-cost carriers offer a great alternative with transparent pricing, a range of data plans to customize to your needs, and more highly rated customer service.

You can keep your phone, number, coverage, and most importantly, your money!

Even better, it's quick and easy; you can complete the entire switching process online in minutes with an eSIM-compatible phone.

So, now is the time to re-evaluate your options, take back control of your phone bill, and free yourself from price hikes forever!

Compare the cheapest student cell phone plans

Check out our student cell phone comparison to help find the best deal.

How to choose the best value carrier for students

What network coverage do you prefer?

As a student, reliable network coverage is crucial for both school and social needs. Low-cost carriers use the same 5G & 4G LTE wireless networks as the big three, so you can choose an MVNO on your preferred network to stay connected on campus and beyond. According to the J.D. Power 2023 wireless network study T-Mobile scores the highest when it comes to 5G network coverage.

How much data do you need?

Unlimited data plans might seem necessary for endless research and streaming, but it's worth considering your actual usage. With Wi-Fi often available on campus and in student accommodations, your real data needs might be lower. MVNOs offer flexible plans that cater to your specific usage, allowing you to save money for other essentials. However, if unlimited is your go-to, remember that there's likely a cap on high-speed data.

Is hotspot data included?

Hotspot capabilities can be essential as a student, especially for those group study sessions or when Wi-Fi is down. While most carriers offer hotspot data, the amount varies by plan. Some also provide data-only plans, perfect for tablets or when you're studying on the go.

What's the monthly price?

Forget the hefty fees associated with big wireless unlimited plans. MVNOs offer student-friendly plans starting from $5-35 per month without compromising on coverage. However, be mindful of hidden fees and taxes, as some carriers are more transparent than others.

How many lines do you need?

If you have roommates or friends who want to save a little bit extra, some MVNOs offer discounts for multiple lines. However, most of these multi-line plans use one person as the main account holder, so if that's you, you'll be responsible for the payments should anyone not pay their way.

Can I bring my own phone or buy a new device?

If you're happy with your current phone, you can bring your own device, giving you control over when and how you choose to upgrade. If you need a new phone, many MVNOs offer affordable options with flexible financing.

Are there any deals or promotions?

While big wireless deals may look appealing, they often come with strings attached. MVNOs, on the other hand, offer straightforward, transparent promotions, which are ideal for students looking for clear, upfront savings without long-term commitments.

What perks or add ons can I expect?

Be cautious of "free" subscription offers, which often lead to unexpected charges. Some low-cost carriers do offer add-ons, but consider whether you really need these services or if they're just additional expenses.

Is international calling included?

If you're an international student or have family abroad, some MVNOs offer free international calling, helping you stay connected with loved ones without extra costs.

Check out our cell phone plan comparison to ensure you find the best deal.

Find the best phone service in your area

Student phone plans FAQs

Recap: What is the best student cell phone plan?

The major cell phone providers are signaling no end to their price hikes, a strategy seemingly aimed more at boosting their bottom lines in a competitive market than addressing any real economic need.

As a student likely already navigating the challenges of budgeting for textbooks, tuition, and daily living expenses, these rising costs can feel particularly burdensome.

But there is good news. The opportunity to access the same quality cell phone service at a significantly lower cost, potentially saving you up to $600 a year on your cell phone bill.

Before you commit to your next cell phone plan, it's worth exploring our comprehensive cell phone plan comparison.

It's designed specifically to help students like you find the most affordable plans without compromising on data or service quality, ensuring you stay connected for both your studies and social life.

Phone plan guides

• Best Cell Phone Plans
• Best Prepaid Phone Plans
• Best Unlimited Data Plans
• The 10 Best MVNOs
• Best Phone Plans for One
• Best Cell Phone Plans for Two
• Best Cell Phone Plans for Kids
• Best Cell Phone Plans for Seniors
• Best Cell Phone Plans for Students
• Best Bring Your Own Phone Plans
• Best 5G Cell Phone Plans
• Best Talk & Text Plans

How we choose the best carriers and plans

To select the best carriers and plans, MoneySavingPro's team of experts evaluated over 30 different carriers.

Carriers were rated in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. We then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:

1. Value for money: We compare carriers based on price, features, benefits, and promotions. It's not just about the lowest price but getting the most bang for your buck.
2. Coverage: We look at network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US. We use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
3. Customer experience: We take into account items such as current user experience, website and app usability, ease of switching, and customer service in terms of availability, channels, and satisfaction ratings.
4. Transparency: We assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. We examine the fine print to check for hidden fees, confusing terms or conditions, and misleading offers to ensure upfront, honest prices and advertising.
5. Range of choice: We evaluate the diversity of plan options to determine if they fit the individual needs of all customers.

Read more about our carrier ratings methodology and our editorial process.

We regularly update our comparisons. Updating cell phone plans weekly and our content monthly to ensure we are showing the latest and most accurate information.