AWS credits are promotional vouchers you can apply to your AWS account to cover usage costs. They help reduce your AWS bill, especially when you're starting out, running a side project, or building a startup. AWS credits can be obtained through official programs, student plans, events, or partnerships. We’ll take you through the steps to get these free credits.
How to get AWS credits for free
Sign up for the AWS Free Tier plan
Before you think about getting AWS credits, you must create an AWS account yourself. The easiest way to get started is through the AWS Free Tier. It includes 12-month free access to services like EC2, S3, and Lambda. In fact, some services are always free within limits.
You can sign up with a valid credit/debit card and a phone number.
Once you have the account, now you can use one of these options to get AWS credits for free.
Option 1. Apply for AWS Activate (for startups)
If you're a startup, you can get $1,000–$100,000 in AWS credits through the AWS Activate program.
Here are the requirements:
You must be associated with an approved accelerator, incubator, or investor.
You must have a company website and domain-based email.
If you’re an early-stage startup, you can apply via AWS Activate Founders.
You can sign up for the AWS Activate program here: https://aws.amazon.com/activate
Option 2. Get student credits via AWS Educate
If you're a student or educator, you can join AWS Educate using your school-issued email and get up to $100 in AWS credits plus learning content.
You can sign up for this program here: https://aws.amazon.com/education/awseducate
Option 3. Attend AWS events and webinars
AWS often distributes credits during AWS Summit events, webinars, online workshops, Hackathons and certification boot camps. So, it’s a good idea to keep track of and be a part of these events.
Keep an eye on: https://aws.amazon.com/events
Option 4. Join open-source or research grant programs
If you're working on open-source projects, academic research or community initiatives, there are special grant programs that you can apply to for AWS credits. Here are two links you can apply for:
