Subscription Services for College Students in Canada are indispensable—especially when paired with exclusive student discounts that save both time and money. In remote locations like Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, where public transit is limited, taxi fares are steep, and harsh winter weather makes even short walks challenging, budget-friendly subscriptions become essential.
Arriving in Canada to pursue my Business Management program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic in 2023, I experienced firsthand how these services can simplify daily life. Over the past few months, I’ve tested various subscription services designed for students, and here’s a concise breakdown of the best ones that have helped me overcome everyday challenges while studying in Canada.
1. Walmart Grocery Delivery: A Lifesaver for Remote Locations
In a place like Prince Albert—where reliable public transport is scarce, taxi charges are high, and extreme weather often blankets the area in snow—Walmart Delivery Pass is a game changer for college students.
Why It Matters:
- Free 90-Day Trial: Experience hassle-free, same-day delivery without any commitment
- Affordable Plans: $8.97 monthly or $89 annually after your trial ends
- No Markups: Access 65,000+ items at the same in-store prices
- Weather-proof Shopping: Eliminate transportation challenges during harsh Canadian winters
2. Amazon Prime Student: Convenience at Your Fingertips
As a student, I found Amazon Prime Student to be an indispensable tool for both academic and personal needs.
Key Benefits and Context:
- Tailored for Students: Enjoy 50% off the membership until your 25th birthday, with a free trial to experience the benefits.
- Academic Support: Fast delivery means you never have to worry about waiting for essential study materials or supplies.
- Entertainment and More: Beyond shopping, Prime Student offers access to popular TV shows, movies, ad-free music streaming, Twitch Prime, and early access to deals—perfect for unwinding after long study sessions.
- Special Note for Remote Students: For those living in remote areas, quick and reliable shipping is an absolute must to keep academic and personal life running smoothly.
📊 Subscription Cost Comparison Chart
| Service | Regular Price | Student Price | Savings | Free Trial |
| Amazon Prime | $9.99/month | $4.99/month | 50% | 6 months |
| YouTube Premium | $14.99/month | $7.99/month | 47% | 1 month |
| Apple Music | $10.99/month | $5.99/month | 45% | 1 month |
| DoorDash DashPass | $9.99/month | $4.99/month | 50% | 30 days |
| Uber One | $9.99/month | $4.99/month | 50% | 4 weeks |
| HelloFresh | Varies | 25 free meals | ~$150 value | First box |
| Walmart Delivery | $12.97/month | $8.97/month | 31% | 90 days |
3. DoorDash DashPass: Affordable Food Delivery
For students who need to grab a bite between classes or during late-night study sessions, DoorDash DashPass offers significant savings.
Highlights:
- $4.99/Month: 50% off the regular DashPass rate
- Easy Verification: Simple in-app student status confirmation
- $0 Delivery Fees: On eligible orders from thousands of restaurants
- Reduced Service Fees: Lower fees compared to standard accounts
Pro Tip for Canadian Students: DashPass coverage is excellent even in smaller Canadian cities like Prince Albert.
4. HelloFresh Student Discounts: Nutritious Meals Made Easy
HelloFresh is a great option if you’re looking to save time and money on meals.
Offer Highlights:
- 25 Free Meals: Spread across your first deliveries
- Free Sides for Life: Extra value with every box
- Free Shipping: On your first box with student verification
- Weekly Meal Planning: Eliminate grocery shopping stress
Student Verification: Available through Student Beans with valid .edu email.
5. YouTube Premium for Students: Ad-Free Streaming
YouTube Premium for Students provides an uninterrupted streaming experience—ideal for both studying and relaxation.
Features:
- $7.99/Month: After one-month free trial
- Ad-Free Experience: Eliminate distractions during study sessions
- Background Play: Continue listening while using other apps
- YouTube Music: Full access included in your subscription
6. Uber One for Students: Savings on Rides and Delivery
Uber One for Students offers valuable benefits for both rides and food delivery, which is particularly useful if you’re juggling a busy schedule.
Key Features:
- 4-Week Free Trial: Test before committing
- $4.99/Month: Special student rate (regular price: $9.99)
- $0 Delivery Fees: On eligible Uber Eats orders
- 5% Off Rides: Discount on all eligible trips
Canadian Student Hack: Particularly valuable during winter months when walking isn’t an option.
📈 Monthly Student Expenses in Canada (2025)
- Housing: $800-1,200
- Food: $400-600
- Transportation: $100-200
- Books/Supplies: $75-150
- Entertainment: $100-200
- Subscriptions: $50-100
- Other: $150-300
7. Apple Music for Students: Entertainment on a Budget
For students who love music and entertainment, Apple Music for Students offers a robust discount.
Offer Details:
- $5.99/Month: Valid for up to 48 months of study
- Apple TV+ Included: Free access to Apple’s streaming service
- 90 Million Songs: Full library access with no restrictions
- Offline Listening: Download playlists for offline campus studying
Student Verification Required: Through UNiDAYS or directly with your student email.
Financial and Banking Services: Smart Money Management
Managing your finances is a vital part of student life. Fortunately, several Canadian banks and fintech companies offer tailored solutions that help you save money and streamline your budgeting. Here are some top options:
8. Simplii Financial
What It Offers:
- No-Fee Chequing: Zero monthly maintenance charges
- Cashback Visa: Earn rewards on everyday purchases
- Welcome Bonus: Up to $500 cashback on select products
- Student-Friendly: Designed for those building credit history
9. Scotiabank Student Banking Advantage Plan
What It Offers:
- Unlimited Transactions: No per-transaction fees
- Free e-Transfers: Send money to classmates without fees
- Scene+ Points: Earn rewards on every purchase
- Student-Specific Benefits: Tailored to academic calendars
10. BMO Student Solutions
What It Offers:
- No-Fee Chequing: Save on monthly banking costs
- CashBack Mastercard: Earn while you spend
- Cash Welcome Bonus: Get started with extra funds
- Student-Focused: Designed for those in higher education
11. CIBC Student Accounts
What It Offers:
- Unlimited Transactions: No limits on daily banking
- Free Non-CIBC ATM Use: Access funds anywhere
- SPC+ Membership: Additional student discounts
- Comprehensive Package: All-in-one student banking solution
12. RBC Student Banking
Overview:
Specialized student accounts designed to help manage your finances without extra charges.
Benefits Include:
- No monthly maintenance fees
- Unlimited debit transactions
- Access to a nationwide network of ATMs and branches
- Additional features like overdraft protection and budgeting tools on select accounts.
13. TD Student Chequing Account
Overview:
Flexible chequing accounts with no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements.
Benefits Include:
- Unlimited transactions
- Access to TD’s extensive network of ATMs and branches
- Robust online and mobile banking tools to easily manage your money.
14. Tangerine Bank
Overview:
A popular online bank offering a fully digital banking experience.
Benefits Include:
- No monthly fees for chequing accounts
- Competitive interest rates on savings
- A user-friendly mobile app for managing finances on the go.
15. KOHO
Overview:
A modern Canadian fintech solution that offers a prepaid debit card with no hidden fees.
Benefits Include:
- Prepaid Visa Card: No credit check required
- Cashback Rewards: Earn on everyday purchases
- Built-in Budgeting: Track spending in real-time
- No Hidden Fees: Transparent financial management
Conclusion
For college students in Canada—especially those studying in remote locations in Canada, subscription services are more than just conveniences; they are essential tools for managing daily challenges. From reliable grocery delivery with Walmart Delivery Pass and quick shipping via Amazon Prime Student to affordable food delivery with DoorDash Student DashPass and cost-effective entertainment with YouTube Premium and Apple Music, each service is designed to make your student life easier and more affordable. Explore these offers to see which ones best fit your lifestyle and help you maximize your college experience.
Which subscription services have helped you most as a Canadian college student? Share your experiences in the comments below!
