> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://qubitvpn.gitbook.io/qubitvpn-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://qubitvpn.gitbook.io/qubitvpn-docs/extras/free-basic-plan-for-students.md).

# Free Basic Plan for Students

Eligible students enrolled at accredited U.S. colleges and universities can unlock full access to the QubitVPN Basic Plan for free using their official `.edu` email address.

{% hint style="info" %}
Prerequisite: You must have an active QubitVPN account authenticated via NetBird before verifying your student status.
{% endhint %}

### How to Claim Your Free Plan

Follow these steps on the QubitVPN Billing Portal to verify your student status and activate your free access:

#### Step 1: Authenticate with NetBird

1. Navigate to the [Basic Plan page](https://billing.qubitvpn.com/plans/basic).
2. On the Account Setup Required gatekeeper screen, click Authenticate with NetBird.
3. A pop-up window will open. Complete the sign-in/authorization process in that window and close it once finished.
4. Step 1 will mark as complete, unlocking Step 2 and enabling the student discount link.

#### Step 2: Verify Your .edu Email

1. At the bottom of the setup container, click the link:

   "Get the basic plan for free with eligible U.S. student email address."
2. In the modal overlay that appears, enter your official U.S. university email address ending strictly with `.edu` (e.g., `student@university.edu`).
3. Click Send Verification Code.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Email Requirements: Non-U.S. student domains, invalid TLDs (such as `.edu.ex`), and personal email addresses (Gmail, Outlook, etc.) will be automatically rejected.
{% endhint %}

#### Step 3: Enter Your 6-Digit Security Code

1. Check your `.edu` student inbox for an email from `support@qubitvpn.com` or `noreply@qubitvpn.com` containing your temporary 6-digit verification code.
2. Enter the 6-digit code into the prompt on the verification modal.
3. Click Verify & Activate Free Basic Plan.

Upon successful verification, your student status will be linked to your main QubitVPN account, and your free Basic Plan will be activated automatically. You will then be redirected directly to our [Getting Started Guide](https://docs.qubitvpn.com/qubitvpn-docs/how-to-use/get-started) to set up your desktop or mobile client.