6 Best (TRULY FREE) VPN for Schools – Sep 2023 Update
Lawrence Williams
Most Schools usually block Streaming websites as they are unproductive and hog data. Many Schools prevent access to social networking sites like Facebook. The best VPNs for schools protect your data and help you bypass restricted websites.
It may seem like the best idea to use a free VPN for school, however, unlike a paid VPN, free VPNs place harsh restrictions in order to profit. Additionally, there are security concerns when using a free VPN as they may collect and sell your data or slow down your connection to entice you with faster, paid options. Using a Paid or free trial VPN is often a good choice. A paid removes all the downsides of using a free VPN. You get access to fast servers, and your data remains secure. Read more…
Our Best Free VPN recommendation
Best VPN for School
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#1 Best Overall
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| VPN Provider | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark | Atlas VPN |
| Number of servers: | 3,000+ | 5,000+ | 3200+ | 700+ |
| No. of Server Countries | 94 | 60+ | 65+ | 37+ |
| 24/7 support | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Max connections | 5 | 6 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Our Review |
Excellent – 9.8
 |
Excellent – 9.7
 |
Good – 9.6
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Good – 9.5
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| Free trial | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Link | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now |
1) ExpressVPN – Best Overall School VPN
ExpressVPN is the best overall option for students seeking a VPN. They have high-speed servers with over 3,000 scattered over the globe, meaning you will always have a fast connection nearby. This VPN will work with streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and others. It will unblock social media such as Twitter or Instagram, too.
As for security, Express VPN also provides torrent support and added security features like a free built-in password manager. You can also use up to five devices with no issues. ExpressVPN has all the security requirements to guarantee that your P2P file sharing is safe.
If there are ever any issues regarding your account or things aren’t working as they should be, they offer 24/7 live chat support from experts on their site.
Features:
- 256-bit encryption: Having 256-bit encryption means your browsing data is secure and difficult to crack.
- Good compatibility: You can use ExpressVPN on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
- DNS leak protection: Prevents others from intercepting your browser and your DNS data. It prevents any data theft and keeps your IP safe.
- Unlimited Bandwidth: You will have no restrictions on how much data you can use, which is perfect for schoolwork.
- Protocols Supported: OpenVPN UDP, Lightway TCP, Lightway UDP, IKEv2, L2TP.
Pros
ExpressVPN has some of the fastest VPN speeds in the market.
Strong security protocols.
IP address masking
You can run five devices simultaneously.
Network lock kill switch, so your data stays safe if your connection drops.
Military-grade encryption.
Cons
ExpressVPN can be a little pricey for students.
Key Specs:
| Supported Platforms: iOS, Android, Linux, macOS, and Microsoft Windows |
Total number of servers: 3000+ | Countries: 94 |
| Data Allowance: Unlimited | No-logging policy: Yes | |
| Simultaneous Connections: Unlimited | Free Trial: Yes- 30 days | Maximum supported devices: 5 |
| Split Tunneling: Yes | Kill Switch: Yes | Today Best Deal’s: Check Now! |
Why Use ExpressVPN for School?
Using Express VPN helps you to bypass any restrictions set by the school internet without slowing down your internet connection. Streaming services can continue uninterrupted for leisure time or research purposes.
Privacy and Log Policy:
ExpressVPN does not record any of your data, and they have published a statement. No logs regarding your activity are stored, and nothing can personally identify you.
Servers are kept secure and are unattainable by any government. You can also ask ExpressVPN to delete your user data by submitting a deletion request.
How To Get ExpressVPN for Free?
Setting up an account to try ExpressVPN is quick, and you get access to all their premium features.
- Free trial length: 30 days
- Credit card required for a free trial: Yes
30-Day Free Trial
2) NordVPN – Best for Speed
NordVPN has fast servers and top-level security features, so you enjoy safe browsing. It also comes with an unlimited data cap, meaning you no longer need to worry about reaching a limit on data. This is especially helpful if you watch a lot of Netflix or YouTube that requires a VPN.
There are around 5,000 servers in 55 countries, allowing you to find servers nearby with good speeds on a paid NordVPN plan. It’s also available on Windows, macOS, Linus, Android, and iOS.
Features:
- Active threat protection: Malware, trackers, and cyber threats are always risks. NordVPN has a feature that helps scan and block any potentially harmful file that might affect your device.
- Fast VPN: You can enjoy your day-to-day activities while using their VPN and notice no speed sacrifices.
- Private DNS: With NordVPN, you can use a private DNS to act as a DNS leak protection service.
- Torrenting Support: Provides full torrenting support and will help you if you face any issues.
- Protocols Supported: It uses three separate VPN protocols. IKEv2/IPsec, OpenVPN, NordLynx.
Pros
Offers to six devices and an unlimited data cap.
It has good security and uses encrypted private tunnels.
Dark Web monitor alerts you if someone leaks your information.
A dedicated IP address that’s just for you.
Multi-factor authentication is available.
Cons
You are only able to select locations and not servers.
Key Specs:
| Supported Platforms: iOS, Windows, Linux, macOS, and Android |
Total number of servers: 5200+ worldwide | Countries: 60+ countries |
| Data Allowance: Unlimited | No-logging policy: Yes | |
| Server selection: Manual and Automatic | Free Trial: Yes – 30-days | Maximum supported devices: 5 |
| Split Tunneling: Yes | Kill Switch: Yes | Today Best Deal’s: Check Now! |
Why Use NordVPN for School?
NordVPN removes any geographically based restriction on any streaming website. It helps you to browse the Internet organically without telling search engines who you are or giving away where you are. The app, easily downloaded, is also easy to use and quick to connect.
Privacy and Log Policy:
NordVPN has a privacy policy ensuring that all your data is private and secure from your ISP and any potential hackers. They also have a zero-logs policy, meaning they don’t store your online browsing activities.
Your IP will always remain hidden, safe, and secure, no matter what you do for school. Their security protocols are among the best, ensuring that your data will remain private.
How To Get NordVPN Free?
NordVPN is one of the few virtual private networks on this list that doesn’t offer a trial of their full plan for macOS or PC but offers a trial for mobile on Android.
While the full program isn’t free, each of their paid accounts offers a risk-free VPN plan. If you have any complaints, such as speed or service, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, and you can ask for a refund.
- Free trial length: 7 days for mobile
- Credit card required for a free trial: Yes
30-Day Free Trial
3) Surfshark – Best for VPN for school WiFi-sharing
Surfshark is among the most affordable VPN service that still keeps high standards. One area where Surfshark stands out is its unlimited device-sharing policy. You can connect as many people to their VPN server as you wish without issues and share your account with your friends and family.
It means you can split the fee of a Surfshark subscription with a few friends and have everyone chip in. Surfshark also has high speeds, secure servers, and great app compatibility. You can use Surfshark with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux.
Features:
- Includes an anti-virus program. The Surfshark One package includes an antivirus program that can remove harmful viruses and files from any computer running the software.
- Adblocker & secure browsing. On all premium SurfShark packages, you have an included ad blocker that will work to remove any malicious ad that might harm your computer.
- Cookie pop-up was removed. SurfShark has a feature that removes cookie pop-ups when using their VPN service.
- Protocols supported: SurfShark supports WireGuard, IKEv2, and OpenVPN.
Pros
Hide from search engines and get organic search results
Has an easy-to-use app on all platforms.
24/7 live chat support.
Cons
Not the fastest server speed on the market.
Key Specs:
| Supported Platforms: Android, iOS, macOS | Total number of servers: 3,200 servers | Countries: 65+ countries |
| Data Allowance: Unlimited | Torrenting: Yes | |
| Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Free Trial: 30-Days | Maximum supported devices: 5 |
| Split Tunneling: Yes | Kill Switch: Yes | Today Best Deal’s: Check Now! |
Why Use Surfshark for School?
SurfShark is excellent for school usage, as you can bypass restrictions while keeping all your information and data safe. It is also ideal for bypassing blocks on any website, such as streaming websites. You can share your account with your friends, as you have no limit on how many devices can be connected to your account.
Privacy and Log Policy:
Surfshark strictly keeps no logs on your browsing data. None of your actions are stored, and they do not track you.
How To Get Surfshark for Free:
Try out Surfshark for free with their mobile app on both Android and iOS. Links to the individual app stores are on their website. Pay when you sign up to start the trial. However, you can ask for a refund by the end and get all your money back.
- Free trial length: 7 days
- Credit card required for a free trial: Yes
30-Day Free Trial
4) AtlasVPN – Best Budget School VPN Option
AtlasVPN is an excellent option for students seeking a fast VPN to deal with local websites, as they have one of the best free plans for speed. Sometimes speed is as important as the access itself.
The AtlasVPN app will help you stay private and remove any restrictions imposed by your school or home internet connection. Prices for AtlasVPN are economical and worth considering, as they are lower than most of the competition.
Features:
- SafeSwap: AtlasVPN allows you to access the Internet from multiple IP addresses and remain more hidden and secure.
- Malware Blocker: You can browse the Internet without worrying about malware or phishing attacks.
- Top-of-the-line WireGuard protocol: AtlasVPN has one of the best WireGuard protocols, keeping your browsing data secure when using a VPN.
- Protocols Supported: AtlasVPN uses WireGuard and IPSec/IKEv2.
Pros
Consistent and reliable servers.
Unlimited devices.
Network kill switch in case your internet connection drops.
Let you perform large P2P file transfers from behind a VPN
Cons
Removes locked access for streaming services on their paid plan only.br>
Why Use AtlasVPN for School?
AtlasVPN can be a good way to keep your data hidden from your ISP, but you still need to remember that AtlasVPN logs your data.
Schools block websites, so using a paid VPN like AtlasVPN can be a simple way to bypass the issue without causing lag on streaming services. One of the main reasons you can go for AtlasVPN is that they are a good budget option VPN option available in the market.
Privacy and Log Policy:
AtlasVPN claims it does not record any of your data, but there is some controversy about its accuracy in its policy. The current consensus is that AtlasVPN only tracks your location but keeps everything else unlogged.
Key Specs:
| Supported Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS |
Total number of servers: 700+ servers | Countries: 17+ |
| Data Allowance: 10GB for the free plan | IP Addresses: Yes | |
| Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Free Trial: Yes – 30 Days | Maximum supported devices: 5 |
| Kill Switch: Yes | Server Selection: Automatic and Manual | |
| No-logging policy: AtlasVPN stores specific data to improve services | Today Best Deal’s: Check Now! | |
How To Get AtlasVPN for Free?
AtlasVPN has a free option for users to get a feel for their app. With it, you have access to three accessible service locations.
You can also use as many devices as you want on the free option, which is great for keeping your browsing information private regardless of what device you want to use.
- Free trial length: Unlimited free basic plan
- Credit card required for a free trial: No
30-Day Free Trial
5) Private Internet Access – Best for Security
Private Internet Access offers excellent data privacy for users. Their security is very high with military-grade encryption, and it’s packaged with quick internet speeds.
It is an open-source VPN, so it lets other developers use what has worked for them to develop other VPN software. This also reduces the risks of vulnerabilities, as patches are constantly being made to keep information safe.
Features:
- Effective killswitch: A good killswitch will ensure that if your VPN connection ever drops, all your internet access will be shut down.
- Built-in ad blocking: All your ads will block ads and trackers.
- Leading Protocols: Private Internet Access uses trustworthy open-source protocols which ensure your data remains safe.
- Protocols Supported: OpenVPN, Wireguard, and IPsec.
Pros
Configurable split-tunneling
It prevents your school from seeing traffic information if your VPN fails.
Free trial includes up to 10 devices.
Allows auto-connect rules, so your VPN connects for some networks and not others.
Cons
The app can require troubleshooting from time to time.
Unreliable internet speeds.
Key Specs:
| Supported Platforms: iOS, Android, Linux, macOS, and Microsoft Windows. |
Total number of servers: 10,000+ | Countries: 84+ countries |
| Data Allowance: Unlimited Bandwidth | No-logging policy: Yes | |
| Free Trial: No- 30 days money-back guarantee | Simultaneous connections: 10+ | Maximum supported devices: Unlimited |
| Split Tunneling: Yes | Kill Switch: Yes | Today Best Deal’s: Check Now! |
Why Use Private Internet Access for School?
Private Internet Access has over ten years of experience bypassing restricted content due to geographical location, no matter where you are. The app enables the use of streaming services that your school has blocked. The prices are great for students as it is an affordable way to get an effective VPN with economical prices.
Privacy and Log Policy
Private Internet Access has a firm 100% no-log policy. Your browsing history, IP address, and DNS queries are never stored on their servers. It has been proven true in court twice and by independent audits.
How To Get Private Internet Access for Free?
Try out a VPN with Private Internet Access’s app by signing up. There is no free trial on Windows or macOS.
- Free trial length: 7 days (mobile only)
- Credit card required for a free trial: No.
30 days money-back guarantee
6) ProtonVPN – Best for Ad Blocking
ProtonVPN is a security-focused company. They are a company developed after the rest of its products to keep its customers safe while browsing. All traffic first runs through their Secure Core to detect if a server is compromised before the traffic goes through. This virtual private network service provides excellent services and a worthwhile free plan.
The free plan for ProtonVPN allows you to bypass restricted websites, such as streaming services, without throttling speeds. There are only three servers for free users, so if you are far from a server, your service might not be enjoyable.
Features:
- Ad-blocker and NetShield: The appropriate VPN app filters out malware and online trackers and blocks ads. This feature is only available for paying users.
- Always on killswitch: ProtonVPN will immediately shut down your internet access if your connection to the VPN encounters any errors.
- Multi-device allowance: Up to 10 devices can be added to a ProtonVPN account at anyone time.
- Protocols Supported: OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, and Stealth.
Pros
Hundreds of servers worldwide
Free plan includes a good number of servers.
P2P Support for file transfers
VPN Accelerator increases speeds by 400%
All ProtonVPN servers have full disk encryption
Cons
Prices are on the higher side.
Key Specs:
| Supported Platforms: Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, Windows |
Total number of servers: 1,538 servers | Countries: 60+ countries | IP Addresses: Yes |
| Server selection: Automatic or manual selection | Simultaneous connections: Unlimited | Maximum supported devices: 5 | Split Tunneling: Yes |
| Free Trial: Lifetime Free Basic Plan | Data Allowance: Unlimited | Kill Switch: Yes | |
| No-logging policy: ProtonVPN uses a strict no-logging policy | Today Best Deal’s: Check Now! |
Why Use ProtonVPN for School?
ProtonVPN offers VPN services that bypass blocked content enforced by your school for a browsing experience free of censorship. It’s also one part of a suite of products such as ProtonMail and Drive that students may want to use to secure the rest of their life.
Privacy and Log Policy
ProtonVPN is a Swiss VPN originally created to protect journalists. They use a strict no-logs policy, and their country’s laws forbid them from sharing any information with third parties. They will not record your traffic, IP address, or session information.
How To get ProtonVPN for Free?
Test out ProtonVPN by signing up and grabbing a free plan. If you decide to purchase ProtonVPN, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re not completely satisfied.
- Free trial length: Lifetime Free Basic Plan
- Credit card required for a free trial: No
Lifetime Free Basic Plan
FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding VPNs for schools.
Best VPN for School
|
#1 Best Overall
|
|
|
|
|
| VPN Provider | ExpressVPN | NordVPN | Surfshark | Atlas VPN |
| Number of servers: | 3,000+ | 5,000+ | 3200+ | 700+ |
| No. of Server Countries | 94 | 60+ | 65+ | 37+ |
| 24/7 support | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Max connections | 5 | 6 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Our Review |
Excellent – 9.8
|
Excellent – 9.7
|
Good – 9.6
|
Good – 9.5
|
| Free trial | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Link | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now | Try Free Now |