Get the student discount for Windows 7–even if you're not a student

Consumer Reports News: November 02, 2009 10:07 AM

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As the Windows 7 roll out continues, the folks over at PC Magazine have posted answers to their readers' top questions about the new OS. One in particular caught my eye:

Q: How can I qualify for the Student price of Windows 7? What about the OEM pricing?

A: You really just need an e-mail account from an institution of higher learning. When I tested a recent alumna coworker's address from the University of Colorado, it was accepted immediately. To get this bargain-basement price of $30, head to https://www.win741.com. OEM pricing is intended for system builders, and usually buying a major system component like a motherboard or hard drive qualifies you for a price considerably lower than what you'd pay for the retail box. But some part sellers will offer the lower price to all takers. Note that the OEM version won't come with both 64-bit and 32-bit discs, nor will it include support from Microsoft.

So even if you're technically no longer in college, but have access to an ".EDU" email address, you qualify for the Windows 7 student discount could potentially still take advantage of the offer—at your own risk (see update below). If you're a student at a college or other educational institution that doesn't provide an email address, you might still qualify. Check this link at Microsoft.

[ Update: Should you possess a ".EDU" address and decide to take advantage of the student discount, note Microsoft's terms and conditions: " Microsoft or Digital River may contact you to verify that you are a current student. If documentation is not provided indicating that you are a current student, you will be liable to reimburse Microsoft for the difference between what you paid and the estimated retail price of the software." –Ed.]

For more, see our ongoing Windows 7 coverage and commentary, including "Windows 7: To upgrade or not to upgrade?" –Nick K. Mandle