Apple's Back to School Offer Still Hasn't Launched in the UK

Apple Offers education savings in many markets across Europe, Asia and the Americas, where post-18 students can get a discount on Mac, iPad, and more recently, Apple Watch. The company also offers free accessories with the purchase of a device during the summer - though this doesn't seem to be coming to the UK.

Earlier this year, Apple launched its back to school offer in Asia, where students could get free AirPods 4, an Apple Pencil Pro, 4-pack of AirTags or an Apple gift card, depending on the country.

About a week later, Apple launched the offer in the US, where students can claim an Apple gift card with the purchase of certain iPad or MacBook models.

Whilst this year's offerings are less generous than previous promotions, at least these nations have received an offer.

In the UK, no back to school promotions are running on the education store. Customers can only access Apple's standard education pricing, which is now more expensive for some products following Apple's June price hikes.

Last July, Apple offered UK students a range of free accessories with the purchase of Macs and iPads. This included a free Magic Keyboard with the purchase of a Mac or iPad, free Apple Pencil, and discounted AirPods Pro. The promotion included accessories that are usually sold for as much as £199, free of charge.

Will The Back To School Offer Launch in the UK?

As we approach mid-August, it's hard to say if the offer will launch. Schools return in less than a month, followed by universities in mid to late September.

There is a chance it could launch, as Apple may be simply delaying the offer with a shorter run time than previous years. A later launch in August, or even early September cannot be ruled out.

Should I Buy Now or Wait?

Historically, Apple has launched its UK education promotions between July and September, meaning a late announcement remains possible.

Supply chain shortages are seeing delivery dates pushed back, with the popular MacBook Air seeing 2-3 week shipping delays.

If you don't need a device urgently, hold on for now as an offer could launch later.

However, if you desperately need the device for the start of term in early September, it may be best to order now to avoid shipping delays.