Apple Opens Education Discounts on Apple Watch Across Major Asia-Pacific Markets
Breaking: Apple Adds Apple Watch to Education Store in Ten Countries
Apple has quietly expanded its education pricing program to include the Apple Watch for the first time, offering students and teachers discounts of up to 10% across Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
The move, effective immediately, allows eligible users to purchase the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Ultra 3 at reduced prices through Apple's dedicated Education Store.
Pricing Breakdown
In Australia, the Apple Watch Series 11 drops from AUD $679 to $609 for qualifying users. The Apple Watch SE 3 is priced at $369, down from $399, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3 starts at $1,259 instead of $1,399, according to Apple's online store.
The discounts apply across all ten countries, with slight variations based on local pricing. Apple has not disclosed the exact discount percentage in each market, but the reduction appears consistent with its existing education pricing on Macs and iPads.
New Online Verification via UNiDAYS
To prevent misuse, Apple is introducing an online verification system through UNiDAYS in Australia and Hong Kong. Students and educators must verify their academic status using a school email, photo ID, or other valid documents before gaining access to education pricing.
"UNiDAYS provides a secure, streamlined way to confirm eligibility without requiring in-store checks," said an Apple spokesperson. "We are expanding this system to additional regions over time."
The same verification process already exists in other countries where Apple Watch education pricing is now available, ensuring consistent access across markets.
Background: Apple's Education Store Evolution
Apple has long offered discounted Macs, iPads, and accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil through its Education Store. However, the Apple Watch was notably absent from the program until now.
Industry analyst James Chen of TechEd Insights noted, "This is a significant strategic shift. The Apple Watch is increasingly seen as a productivity and wellness tool for students, not just a luxury accessory."
The inclusion of the Apple Watch broadens Apple's appeal in the education sector, where wearable technology is gaining traction for health monitoring and time management.
What This Means for Students and Educators
For the first time, students and teachers in key Asia-Pacific markets can purchase an Apple Watch at a price comparable to mid-range smartwatches. The discount makes the device more accessible for those who rely on it for fitness tracking, notifications, and productivity.
Apple's decision may also pressure competitors like Samsung and Google to offer similar education discounts on their wearables. "Apple is leveraging its ecosystem to capture the student demographic early," said Chen. "Expect rival brands to respond."
However, the UNiDAYS verification requirement could limit access for some students, particularly those without institutional email accounts. Apple has assured that alternative verification documents are accepted.
As of today, eligible users in the ten countries can purchase the Apple Watch through the Education Store online. Apple has not announced plans to expand the program to additional regions.
- Related: Apple Watch Series 11 Education Pricing
- Related: UNiDAYS Verification Details