moto g 5G
5G · 128 GB
$0 with Lifeline
Free Phone for Students: stay connected for class
College and adult students often qualify for Lifeline through SNAP, Medicaid or income. Here is how.
Quick answer
Can students get a free phone?
Yes. Students can get a free phone through Lifeline if they receive SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or public housing aid, or if their household income is at or below 135% of the poverty guidelines. Students who live independently apply as their own household. A Pell Grant alone does not qualify for regular Lifeline.
- SNAP or Medicaid qualifies
- Hotspot for homework
- Apply as your own household
Does a Pell Grant qualify a student for Lifeline?
Not for regular Lifeline. The Pell Grant was a qualifying program for the Affordable Connectivity Program, which ended in 2024. For Lifeline, Pell Grants only count for emergency support for survivors under the Safe Connections Act. Most students qualify through income or another program instead.
Can a college student living in a dorm qualify?
Yes. If you live on your own (including a dorm or shared apartment) and do not share money with your parents, you are your own household. Your own income is what counts. Many students earn under $21,546 a year, the 2026 limit for one person.
Which phone is best for students?
iPhone 12
5G · 64 GB
Free or low co-pay
Android Tablet (8-inch, 4G LTE)
4G LTE + Wi-Fi · 32 GB + microSD
Free or low co-pay
How does the free phone help with school?
- Use hotspot to connect a laptop for assignments.
- Get two-factor login codes for student portals.
- Take photos of notes and scan documents.
- Stay reachable for jobs, internships and financial aid offices.
Can high school students get a free phone?
Lifeline applicants must be at least 18 or emancipated minors. A parent or guardian can apply for the household and choose a phone the student uses, or add a discounted tablet through our phone and tablet combo.
How can students make their data last?
- Download lecture videos and readings on campus Wi-Fi
- Turn off auto-play and background app refresh
- Use hotspot for short tasks, not long video streams
- Add a data top-up during exam weeks if you need it
What do students need to apply?
Your ID, your address (a dorm counts), and either proof of a qualifying program like SNAP or Medicaid or proof of your own income, such as pay stubs or last year's tax return. If your parents claim you as a dependent on their taxes, you are part of their household for Lifeline, so their household must qualify.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be enrolled full-time?
No. Lifeline does not look at enrollment. It looks at programs and income.
Can international students qualify?
Applicants must meet identity and eligibility rules. Many international students do not receive qualifying benefits, but may qualify by income with valid documents.
Does financial aid count as income?
Grants and scholarships used for tuition generally are not counted the same way as wages, but rules can vary. Report your income as accurately as you can.
Can I use my school address?
Yes. Use the address where you live and receive mail, including a dorm.
Can I keep the phone after graduation?
Yes. You keep the phone. Your Lifeline service continues as long as you stay eligible and recertify.
Sources and last update
Reviewed and updated on by the FreeCall Wireless team. Program figures come from these official sources:
- FCC: Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications
- USAC: Lifeline program overview
- Lifeline Support (USAC): How to qualify
- HHS ASPE: 2026 Poverty Guidelines
Spotted something out of date? Email support@freecallwireless.com and we will correct it.
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