Quick Summary
- 1Paramount+ has implemented its first price increase since 2024, coinciding with the removal of direct free trials.
- 2The only current discount available is a 50% reduction for verified students, valid for the first 12 months.
- 3Subscribers can save money by choosing an annual plan over monthly billing, with savings ranging from $17.
- 4A free trial is still accessible through a Walmart+ subscription, which includes Paramount+ Essential as a benefit.
Quick Summary
Paramount+ has officially rolled out its first price increase since 2024, a move that arrives just as the platform prepares to host UFC 324. For new and returning subscribers, the timing presents a challenge: the usual promotional offers and free trials have been discontinued alongside the price hike.
While the absence of promo codes and direct free trials may seem discouraging, there are still strategic pathways to reduce subscription costs. This guide breaks down the two primary methods for securing a discount, explores the new pricing structure, and reveals a workaround for those still hoping to test the service before committing.
The New Pricing Reality
The landscape for Paramount+ subscribers has shifted significantly. As of mid-January 2026, the streaming service has removed its long-standing free trial option entirely, meaning users can no longer test the platform without financial commitment. Additionally, the company is not currently offering any promo codes or coupon offers to offset the increased monthly rates.
This change eliminates the traditional incentives that often accompany price adjustments. For those looking to subscribe or return, the standard monthly rates are now the only option available directly through the platform. The absence of these promotions places a greater emphasis on the remaining discount structures.
Key changes include:
- Removal of all direct free trial offers
- No active promo codes or coupon campaigns
- Standard pricing applies to all new monthly subscriptions
Student Discount: 50% Off
The most substantial saving currently available is the 50% student discount. This offer is specifically designed for verified students who can confirm their enrollment status for a full academic year. To qualify, individuals must be at least 18 years old and successfully pass the verification process.
Paramount+ utilizes a third-party service called SheerID to authenticate student status. Once verified, the discount applies to any of the available Paramount+ plans for the first 12 months of the subscription. It is important to note that after this initial year, the subscription automatically renews at the full, undiscounted price, regardless of continued student status.
The offer is only valid for the first 12 months of the subscription and the student has to be at least 18 years old to get the discount.
Annual Plan Savings
For users who are certain about their long-term commitment to the service, annual plans offer a straightforward method for reducing the overall cost. By paying for a full year upfront, subscribers can secure a lower effective monthly rate compared to the standard monthly billing cycle.
The savings vary depending on the chosen tier. The Paramount+ Premium annual plan is priced at $139.99, while the Paramount+ Essential plan costs $89.99 per year. Over a 12-month period, these annual options provide a tangible reduction in total expenditure.
Comparative savings over 12 months:
- Premium Plan: Saves $27.89 annually
- Essential Plan: Saves $17.89 annually
The Free Trial Workaround
While Paramount+ no longer offers a direct free trial, a workaround exists through a Walmart+ subscription. This retail membership includes a Paramount+ Essential plan as one of its core benefits, allowing new users to access the streaming service without a separate subscription fee.
Walmart+ provides a 30-day free trial for new members. During this period, users can experience the full Paramount+ Essential catalog. Furthermore, Walmart+ subscribers enjoy the flexibility to switch between Paramount+ and Peacock Premium every 90 days, creating a versatile streaming bundle.
Benefits of the Walmart+ route:
- 30-day free trial for new Walmart+ members
- Includes Paramount+ Essential access
- Ability to switch to Peacock Premium every 90 days
Key Takeaways
Despite the recent price increase and the removal of promotional codes, Paramount+ remains accessible through specific channels. The most effective way to save money is to verify student status for a 50% discount or to commit to an annual billing cycle. For those hesitant to pay immediately, the Walmart+ partnership offers a risk-free 30-day trial period.
As the platform continues to host major events like UFC 324, these cost-saving measures are essential for budget-conscious viewers. By leveraging the student discount or annual plan structure, subscribers can continue to enjoy the service's content while mitigating the impact of the recent price adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are two primary methods for securing a discount. Students can receive a 50% reduction on their subscription for the first 12 months, and all users can save by opting for an annual billing cycle instead of monthly payments.
Paramount+ no longer offers a direct free trial on its own platform. However, new users can access a 30-day free trial of the Paramount+ Essential plan by signing up for a Walmart+ subscription.
Eligible students aged 18 or older must verify their enrollment status using SheerID. Once confirmed, they receive a 50% discount on any plan for the first year, after which the subscription reverts to the full price.
