Is Audible Worth It for University Students? Get It for Free! (UK)

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Technology has transformed the way we do everyday activities, and reading is no exception. Over the past few years, audiobooks have surged in popularity, with Audible leading the charge. But is Audible worth it for university students?

Let’s dive in to explore how it works, its pros and cons for students, and, most importantly, how you can try it for free (p.n. if you are just interested in this part you can find it towards the end of the post).

What Is Audible?

Audible, owned by Amazon, is the world’s largest platform for audiobooks. Instead of reading a physical or digital book, you can listen to a professional narrator bring the story or content to life.

With an ever-expanding library that includes bestsellers, academic resources, and even podcasts, Audible has become a go-to for people looking to consume content on the go.

Its appeal lies not just in its massive selection but also in its accessibility. Whether you’re a seasoned bookworm or someone who struggles to fit reading into a busy schedule, Audible offers a flexible way to enjoy books.

How Does Audible Work?

Audible operates on a subscription model, with several membership plans to choose from.

The most popular option among university students is the 1-Book Monthly Membership at £7.99 per month, but there are others to suit different needs (we’ll break these down shortly). Every plan includes:

• Credits: Use these to buy audiobooks you’ll keep forever.
• Audible Plus Catalogue: Unlimited streaming of select audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals.

The best part? New users can enjoy a 30-day free trial, which includes a credit for a free audiobook (or two credits if you’re an Amazon Prime member, which you should be given its 6-month free trial for university students only!)

This is the perfect opportunity to see if Audible fits your lifestyle without committing to a subscription.

Membership Plans and Costs (UK)

Audible offers several membership options depending on your needs:

• 1 Book Monthly: £7.99/month for 1 credit.
• 2 Book Monthly: £14.99/month for 2 credits.
• 12 Books Annual: £69.99/year for 12 credits upfront.
• 24 Books Annual: £109.99/year for 24 credits upfront.

All plans include unlimited access to the Audible Plus catalogue. If you’ve used up your credits and want more books, you can purchase additional titles at discounted rates.

Why Audible Is Worth It for University Students

There are plenty of reasons why Audible is worth it at university:

1. Flexibility for Busy Students
   University life can be hectic, with lectures, assignments, and social commitments. Audible lets you “read” while commuting, exercising, or even relaxing before bed.
2. Encourages Reading Habits
   If you’ve struggled to stick with physical books, audiobooks offer a low-pressure alternative. Listening feels less like a chore and more like entertainment, helping you engage with more books over time.
3. Private Listening Experience
   Unlike carrying around a visible book, Audible offers privacy. Whether you’re delving into self-help, fantasy, or academic resources, your choices are yours alone.
4. Academic Benefits
   Audible isn’t just for leisure. Many educational books, productivity guides, and skill-building resources are available, making it a handy tool for both personal and academic growth.

Why Audible’s Podcasts are Perfect for University Students

In addition to the points above, there is another which deserves a section by itself: podcasts!

Audible has a vast collection of free podcasts that can be incredibly helpful for university students. Many of these podcasts cover a wide range of subjects, including those that might be directly relevant to your degree.

Whether it’s exploring new perspectives on a topic or offering explanations of complex concepts in a way that’s much easier to understand than academic textbooks, Audible’s podcasts can be a real game-changer.

Often, they break down ideas and theories in a non-academic way, making it much easier to grasp the material. This makes it an excellent resource for students looking to supplement their learning, especially when they’re on the go.

Whether you’re commuting to university, taking a break from studying, or just winding down after a long day, you can listen to podcasts that align with your course material, giving you fresh insights and a deeper understanding of your subject.

It’s like having an engaging conversation with an expert at your fingertips, helping you absorb and retain knowledge in a more digestible form.

Why Audible Might Not Be Worth It for Students

While Audible has its perks, it’s not for everyone. The main concern? Cost. On a tight student budget, adding another subscription might feel like a stretch.

However, if you only listen to the occasional audiobook, buying individual titles (without a subscription) might be more cost-effective.

That said, the free trial is a no-risk way to see if the service fits your needs.

How to Get Audible Free (Step by Step)

Curious about trying Audible without the commitment? Follow these simple steps to claim your free trial:

1. Visit the Audible Free Trial page.
2. Click “Start Your Free Trial” or “Try for Free.”
3. Sign in with your Amazon account (or create a new one).
4. Enter payment details (don’t worry, you won’t be charged during the trial).
5. Verify your email.
6. Start exploring Audible’s library with your free credits!

Just remember to cancel before the 30 days are up if you don’t want to continue, or your subscription will auto-renew.

Recommended Audiobooks for University Students

Not sure where to start? Here are some popular titles among university students:

• “Atomic Habits” by James Clear: A guide to building good habits and breaking bad ones, essential for academic success.
• “Why We Sleep” by Matthew Walker: Understand the importance of rest in productivity.
• “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson: A refreshing take on mindset and priorities.
• “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari: A compelling overview of human history, offering perspectives valuable for various fields of study
• “Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman: An exploration of the two systems of thought that drive our decisions.
• “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” by Angela Duckworth: Insights into the importance of resilience and determination in achieving goals.
• The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle: A spiritual guide to living in the present moment, reducing stress and enhancing focus.

These books, and many more, are available on Audible and are perfect for both personal growth and academic inspiration.

FAQs About Audible for University Students

Q: Can students get discounts on Audible?
A: While there isn’t a specific student discount, the free trial and discounted annual memberships provide excellent value.

Q: Can I listen offline?
A: Yes! Once you’ve downloaded an audiobook, you can listen without Wi-Fi or data.

Q: Can I cancel Audible anytime?
A: Absolutely. You can cancel your membership anytime, even during the free trial.

Conclusion: Is Audible Worth It for University Students?

Audible offers a unique way for students to enjoy books, podcasts, and educational content on the go.

While the cost might deter some, the free trial makes it easy to explore the service risk-free. For those who want to read more but struggle to find the time, Audible can be a game-changer.

Why not give it a shot? Sign up for the free trial today and see if Audible is worth it for you!