Apple extends 2026 Back to School promotion until September 24

Apple has extended its 2026 Back to School promotion, giving eligible students, educators, and staff in the United States and several other regions until September 24 to claim the offer. The promotion, which was originally slated to conclude on August 27, provides Apple gift cards alongside the purchase of specific Mac and iPad models through the company's Education Store.

Under the terms of the extended deal, customers purchasing a new MacBook Pro receive a $150 gift card, while those buying a MacBook Air, iPad Pro, or iPad Air are eligible for a $100 gift card. These incentives are offered in addition to Apple's standard year-round education pricing, which provides discounted rates on hardware for qualified purchasers.

The 2026 promotion launched on July 16, roughly a month later than the previous year's start date. The offer is restricted to verified participants in higher education, including faculty, staff, and students, as well as parents purchasing on behalf of their children. Apple now requires verification of student status through UNiDAYS to access these education-specific discounts.

While the promotion covers several portable devices, it excludes desktop Macs, the MacBook Neo, the iPad mini, the entry-level iPad, and all iPhone models. The specific incentives vary by region; for instance, while North American customers receive gift cards, some international markets offer alternative items such as AirTags, AirPods 4, or the Apple Pencil Pro depending on the device purchased.

Industry observers have noted that the extension comes amid a period of increased hardware pricing for certain Mac and iPad models. While the promotion provides a financial incentive for those within the education sector, some analysts suggest that third-party retailers often offer broader discounts on Apple hardware that are not restricted to students or faculty, and which do not require the use of gift cards to realize savings.