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WordPress.com targets the next generation of web creators with a free studentplan
Automattic has launched a free student plan called WordPress.com Education aimed at teachers and students, offering a full suite of features, including domain names and plugin support for website-building without upfront payment. The initiative is designed to integrate WordPress into classrooms and enhance students' skills in web creation, with options to continue using the service at a minimal cost afterward.
Key points
- Automattic launched WordPress.com Education, targeting teachers and students.
- The program provides free access for the first year, requiring no credit card.
- Students receive full WordPress.com domains and support for plugins, SFTP/SSH, etc.
- The service aims to integrate WordPress into education, particularly for underfunded schools.
- After the first year, students can continue for $2/month, retaining their work on a free domain.
- Pilot program involved 5,000 students in 27 countries; 88.9% of educators reported improved student employability.
Why it matters
- This initiative corresponds with the growing trend of digital literacy and technology integration in education.
- As of 2025, trends indicate a shift toward innovative educational tools in underfunded areas.
- WordPress's attempts to appeal to younger users reflect larger trends of competition with social media platforms for online presence.
Overall, Automattic's free student plan seeks to empower a new generation of web creators by directly addressing educational needs and bridging gaps in digital skills, all while promoting continued engagement with WordPress.